Mike Shinonda explains founding drummer Rob Bourdon's departure from Linkin Park

Linkin Park’s founding drummer Rob Bourdon wanted to “distance himself” from Linkin Park years before he left.

The “Numb” rockers have been on hiatus since the tragic death of their frontman Chester Bennington – who took his own life in 2017 at the age of 41 – but are about to release a new album titled “From Zero”, which features former Dead Sara singer Emily Armstrong on vocals and Colin Brittain on drums in place of Rob.

And co-lead singer, guitarist and keyboardist Mike Shinoda commented on his bandmate's departure, stressing that they “understand” his departure and wish him all the best.

He told Billboard: “Rob had told us at some point, I think a couple of years ago, that he wanted to put some distance between himself and the band. And we understood that – it was already obvious. He started showing less, having less contact, and I know the fans noticed that too. With the re-release of 'Hybrid Theory' and the release of 'Papercuts,' he was nowhere to be seen. So for me as a friend, that was sad, but at the same time, I want him to do what makes him happy, and of course everyone wishes him the best.”

Mike added that he and Colin got along well in the studio because they had the same approach to making music.

He said: “He plays drums on the live show, and drums are his first instrument, but he plays guitar, bass and keyboard, and he produces and mixes. We have a similar view of music, starting from scratch, and I've really enjoyed working with him and exchanging ideas.”

“And then when Linkin Park started doing stuff, whatever we were doing, we just said, 'Oh, Colin. We're doing stuff. You should come over.'”

“From Zero” is out on November 15th and the group’s return will be supported by a short world tour that begins next week.

The band will play at the Kia Forum in Los Angeles on September 11 before taking the stage at New York's Barclays Center five days later.

They then head to Europe, where they perform in Hamburg (Germany) and London (England) before appearing in Seoul (South Korea) and Bogota (Colombia).

Presales for Linkin Park's LP Underground fan club begin on Friday (06.09.24) and general tickets will be available the following day via the official Linkin Park website.