A significant new chapter has officially commenced for the iconic hard rock band Skid Row. Following an extensive hiatus of over two years and a comprehensive global talent search, the legendary quintet has revealed their new lead vocalist: Broadway alumnus Justin Sargent. This pivotal announcement marks the dawn of an exciting new era for Skid Row, coinciding with their momentous 40th anniversary. In a remarkable turn of events, the band discovered their new voice not through far-flung expeditions, but remarkably close to their roots, within their home state of New Jersey.
The journey to find a new frontman began in earnest after the departure of Erik Grönwall approximately two and a half years ago. Grönwall, a Swedish-born musician who had battled acute lymphoblastic leukemia since March 2021, announced his exit in March 2024, citing the increasing difficulty of prioritizing his health and full recovery while fulfilling his role as Skid Row’s lead singer. Grönwall had served as Skid Row’s fourth frontman since the departure of Sebastian Bach.
Sargent’s electrifying presence first captured the band’s attention approximately a year ago. His potent vocal delivery, commanding stage persona, and an undeniable, innate connection to Skid Row’s music immediately set him apart from a multitude of aspiring candidates. What ensued were months of dedicated collaboration, rigorous rehearsals, and invaluable time spent forging a bond, ultimately solidifying the conviction that the band had not just found a new singer, but a genuine kindred spirit and a vital addition to their brotherhood.
Bassist Rachel Bolan expressed his immediate connection with Sargent: "Honestly, for me, it felt like he had been here from the beginning as soon as he walked in the room. He was one of us. A lifer. Then he sang with so much power and conviction, it blew me away. It was amazing." This sentiment was echoed by guitarist Dave "Snake" Sabo, who acknowledged the overwhelming response to their call for auditions: "We were so fortunate to receive so many audition submissions from singers wanting to front the band. We wanna thank everyone for their time and effort. There are some truly amazing singers out there! But I think that the moment Justin walked in the door we all kind of knew he was the guy. Everything about him; his voice, his attitude, his demeanor, it all just fit. We can’t wait to hit the ground running and get back to doing what we love to do."
Sargent himself conveyed his profound honor and excitement: "I’ve been singing Skid Row songs for years, but never imagined I’d actually be joining the band! It’s an incredible honor to be part of something with such a legendary history. The chemistry and energy we’ve found together over the past several months has been amazing. I have tremendous respect for the band’s legacy, but I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. I can’t wait to get out there, connect with the fans, and give them everything I’ve got. Let’s go!"
A Respected Performer Joins the Ranks
Justin Sargent brings a wealth of experience from the vibrant world of musical theatre and television. A seasoned singer and actor, Sargent has graced the Broadway stage in prominent roles, including Peter Parker in the acclaimed musical "Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark," featuring music by Bono and The Edge. He also starred as Drew in the immensely popular rock musical "Rock of Ages" and was part of the original Broadway cast of "Bonnie & Clyde."
Born in Murphysboro, Illinois, and raised in Florida, Sargent’s performing career began in high school. Since graduating, he has dedicated his professional life to his passion, amassing an impressive list of collaborations. He has performed alongside esteemed music legends such as John Legend, Alice Cooper, Sara Bareilles, Dee Snider, Kip Winger, and Graham Russell, and has been a guest vocalist with the band Air Supply. His touring experience spans the nation, showcasing his versatility by performing a wide range of music from the operatic grandeur of Andrew Lloyd Webber to the anthemic rock of Queen. Sargent’s television and film credits include appearances on "Jesus Christ Superstar: Live" on NBC, "Law & Order: SVU," "Mr. Robot," "Delocated," and "Royal Pains," demonstrating his broad artistic reach.
The Search and its Unforeseen Conclusion
The announcement of Sargent’s recruitment follows an exhaustive global search that generated an extraordinary volume of interest from singers worldwide. In an effort to broaden their reach and engage the global music community, Skid Row partnered earlier this year with Sweetwater, a leading music retailer, to facilitate the audition process. The band has extended their sincere gratitude to every individual who submitted performances and supported them throughout this significant journey, acknowledging the "nothing short of extraordinary" response from musicians and fans across the globe.
A Bold Statement of Intent: "Won’t Get Fooled Again"
In a fitting celebration of this new era and as a potent declaration of their future direction, Skid Row has unveiled a powerful new recording of the iconic The Who anthem, "Won’t Get Fooled Again." This release is accompanied by an electrifying new music video, serving as both an introduction to Sargent as Skid Row’s new frontman and a definitive statement of intent as the band charts its course forward.
The recording was produced and engineered by Grammy Award-winning producer Nick Raskulinecz, a celebrated figure known for his work with artists like Foo Fighters, Rush, Halestorm, and Alice in Chains. This collaboration marks a reunion for Skid Row with Raskulinecz, who also helmed their 2022 studio album, "The Gang’s All Here."
Skid Row’s rendition of "Won’t Get Fooled Again" is characterized by its explosive energy, unmistakable riffs, and the commanding vocal prowess of Sargent. The interpretation honors one of rock music’s most influential bands while infusing the timeless anthem with Skid Row’s signature intensity and modern sonic attack. Guitarist Scotti Hill remarked on the song’s enduring appeal: "’Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is one of those songs that no matter how many times you hear it on the radio you always turn it up and listen. Anything by The Who is top shelf in my book, but ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is an anthem of generations." Drummer Rob Hammersmith further elaborated on the track’s significance: "’Won’t Get Fooled Again’ isn’t just about making noise – it’s about setting a standard and making a statement: two rock ‘n’ roll elements The Who helped write the book on. Standing on the shoulders of these giants is the ultimate launchpad to signal a loud, unapologetic new era for us!"
The accompanying music video was masterfully directed by acclaimed filmmaker Dale "Rage" Resteghini, known for his impactful visual storytelling with artists such as Five Finger Death Punch, Guns N’ Roses, and Alter Bridge. Resteghini’s work is renowned for capturing visceral performances and delivering high-octane visuals, and in this instance, he has effectively showcased the raw energy, palpable chemistry, and sheer excitement of Skid Row’s revitalized lineup.
Limited Edition Single and Upcoming Tour Dates
Adding to the excitement, "Won’t Get Fooled Again" will also be released as a strictly limited, hand-signed seven-inch single. Pre-orders for this collector’s item, limited to just 500 copies worldwide, began today.
With a new frontman, fresh material, and a palpable surge of raw energy, Skid Row is poised to reignite their electrifying live performances for audiences across the globe. The band has announced their initial concert dates featuring Justin Sargent, with further performances expected to be revealed soon.
Skid Row 2027 Tour Dates:
- March 5 – Rancho Mirage, CA – The Show at Agua Caliente
- March 20 – New Buffalo, MI – Four Winds Casino
- April 2 – Kansas City, MO – VooDoo Lounge at Harrah’s
- April 3 – Welch, MN – Island Event Center
- April 9 – Mashantucket, CT – Foxwoods
- April 10 – Atlantic City, NJ – Borgata
- April 16 – Wheatland, CA – Hard Rock Live
- April 17 – Reno, NV – Silver Legacy Casino
- April 18 – Shelton, WA – Little Creek Casino
- April 23 – Quapaw, OK – Downstream Casino
- April 24 – Grant, OK – Choctaw Casino
- May 9 – Daytona Beach, FL – Welcome to Rockville
- May 14 – Columbus, OH – Sonic Temple
- May 29 – Niagara Falls, ON – OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
- September 25 – French Lick, IN – French Lick Resort
A Look Back at Skid Row’s Frontman History
The tenure of Erik Grönwall, a 38-year-old Swedish-born musician, as Skid Row’s frontman concluded after approximately two and a half years. His battle with acute lymphoblastic leukemia, diagnosed in March 2021, ultimately led to his departure in March 2024. Grönwall’s exit marked the end of a period that saw Skid Row navigate significant changes in their vocal lineup since the departure of their original and most iconic frontman, Sebastian Bach.
Sebastian Bach fronted Skid Row until 1996, when he was dismissed from the band. Following a hiatus, during which some members briefly formed the band Ozone Monday, Skid Row reformed in 1999. Over the subsequent years, the band experienced several lineup shifts, eventually featuring bassist Rachel Bolan, guitarists Dave "Snake" Sabo and Scotti Hill, drummer Rob Hammersmith, and vocalist Johnny Solinger. Solinger was dismissed in April 2015, making way for the short-lived tenure of ex-TNT vocalist Tony Harnell. Just eight months later, Harnell departed and was replaced by ZP Theart, a South African-born, British-based singer previously known for his work with DragonForce, Tank, and I Am I. Theart was fired in February 2022 and subsequently replaced by Grönwall, who had previously been a member of the Swedish hard rock band H.E.A.T.
Discussions regarding a potential reunion with Sebastian Bach have surfaced periodically over the years. Approximately six years ago, Bolan confirmed that the band had "entertained the idea" of reuniting with Bach following Tony Harnell’s departure. However, Bolan later expressed reservations about a rekindling of his friendship with Bach, stating, "Well… Here’s the soundbite for Blabbermouth. I wouldn’t say we were friends [when we were in a band together]. We were bandmates. You know what I mean? We’re two very different people." Bolan indicated at the time that he had not seen Bach in years.
Seven years ago, Sebastian Bach, when questioned by Rolling Stone about the possibility of a Skid Row reunion, cited his management team as a significant factor. He explained that his manager, Rick Sales, with whom he had been since 2006, was a professional who protected his interests, implying that the band’s management might be hesitant to engage with such a representative, preferring to work with less established singers. Bach suggested that his team ensured he was not "fucked around," a contrast to his experience at 19.
In response to Bach’s statements regarding the financial compensation of Skid Row’s singers, Dave "Snake" Sabo informed Rolling Stone via email: "I guess fact-checking isn’t in his skill set… The five of us go on that stage as a band and we all get paid equally. We’re in this together. There’s no egos."
Bach had also expressed that the band had been "close to reuniting, but then it didn’t happen. The fact that it didn’t happen obviously makes me somewhat bitter, because life is only getting shorter, as the song says."
Rachel Bolan countered Bach’s account of the reunion talks in an email to Rolling Stone, stating, "I wouldn’t say ‘came close.’ We entertained the idea. Snake and I went as far as talking with agents and promoters about money. But we quickly learned after a few text conversations, why we fired him in the first place. Nothing is worth your happiness and peace of mind."
The selection of Justin Sargent as Skid Row’s new frontman signifies a deliberate choice by the veteran band to usher in a new era. His extensive theatrical background, combined with his raw vocal talent and clear passion for Skid Row’s legacy, suggests a commitment to both honoring the band’s storied past and forging a compelling future. The release of "Won’t Get Fooled Again" serves as a powerful auditory and visual testament to this renewed vigor, signaling that Skid Row is not only celebrating their 40th anniversary but is also firmly focused on the road ahead.
