History of Linkin Park in Timeline
Linkin Park, formed in 1996 in California, is an American rock band known for their unique blend of heavy metal, hip hop, electronica, and pop. The band consists of Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave Farrell, Joe Hahn, and Rob Bourdon. Chester Bennington, a prominent vocalist, was also a member until his death in 2017. They are widely recognized as a leading force in the alternative rock genre.
1994: Linkin Park's "Collision Course" Achieves Chart Milestone
Linkin Park's collaborative EP with Jay-Z, "Collision Course," became the second EP ever to top the Billboard 200 chart, following Alice in Chains' "Jar of Flies" in 1994, demonstrating its commercial success and cultural impact.
1996: Start of Serious Music Endeavors
After graduating high school, the founding members of Linkin Park decided to pursue their musical aspirations more seriously in 1996. They expanded the band by recruiting Joe Hahn, Dave "Phoenix" Farrell, and Mark Wakefield.
1996: Formation of Xero
In 1996, Linkin Park, initially known as Xero, was formed in Agoura Hills, California.
November 1997: Release of "Xero" Demo Album
In November 1997, the band, then known as Xero, released their first demo album, also titled "Xero."
1998: Jeff Blue's Influence
Brad Delson introduced the band to Jeff Blue, a vice president of A&R at Zomba Music. Impressed by a live performance in 1998, Blue believed in the band's potential but suggested a vocalist change.
March 1999: Chester Bennington Joins the Band
In March 1999, Chester Bennington, recommended by Jeff Blue, joined the band as the new vocalist, marking a turning point in their musical journey.
May 1999: Release of Self-Titled Extended Play
The band released a self-titled EP in May 1999, leveraging online platforms like chat rooms and forums to promote their music.
October 1999: Bassist Changes
In October 1999, Scott Koziol and Ian Hornbeck stepped in to provide bass for the band's recordings, temporarily replacing Kyle Christner.
1999: Signing with Warner Bros. Records and Name Change to Linkin Park
After facing multiple rejections, the band, with Jeff Blue's help, signed with Warner Bros. Records as a developing artist in 1999. They changed their name to Linkin Park, a tribute to Santa Monica's Lincoln Park.
1999: Linkin Park Records "She Couldn't"
In 1999, Linkin Park recorded the song "She Couldn't," which was later released as part of the 20th anniversary edition of their debut album "Hybrid Theory" in 2020.
October 24, 2000: Release of "Hybrid Theory"
"Hybrid Theory" was officially released on October 24, 2000. The album was a culmination of five years of work and was a massive commercial success.
2000: Linkin Park's "Papercuts" Album Released
In 2000, Linkin Park released "Papercuts," their first greatest hits album, spanning their most successful singles from 2000 to 2023. This compilation showcased their evolution and impact on the music scene.
2000: Release of "Hybrid Theory"
Linkin Park achieved global recognition with the release of their debut album, "Hybrid Theory," in 2000. The album was a massive success, becoming certified Diamond by the RIAA.
2000: Farrell's Return and Preparation for "Hybrid Theory"
Dave Farrell rejoined the band in late 2000, solidifying the lineup for their groundbreaking album, "Hybrid Theory."
November 2001: Linkin Park Underground and Projekt Revolution
In November 2001, Linkin Park established their official fan club, "Linkin Park Underground," and launched their own tour, Projekt Revolution, showcasing other artists like Cypress Hill, Adema, and Snoop Dogg.
2001: "Hybrid Theory" Earns Acclaim on Year-End Lists
In 2001, Linkin Park's "Hybrid Theory" received widespread recognition, appearing on prominent year-end lists such as Billboard's Hot 200 Albums of the Decade, Record Collector's Best of 2001, Rock Sound's The top 150 Albums of the Generation, and Kerrang!'s 50 Best Rock Albums of the 2000s.
2001: Commercial Success of "Hybrid Theory"
In 2001, "Hybrid Theory" became the best-selling album of the year. It received a Grammy Award and achieved significant radio play, establishing Linkin Park as a force in the music industry.
July 30, 2002: Reanimation Album Release
On July 30, 2002, Linkin Park released their remix album, "Reanimation," featuring collaborations with artists like Black Thought, Jonathan Davis, and Aaron Lewis.
December 2002: New Album Announcement
In December 2002, Linkin Park announced the making of their new studio album, inspired by the Meteora region in Greece.
March 25, 2003: Meteora Release
Linkin Park released their second album, "Meteora," on March 25, 2003. The album incorporated innovative effects, such as the use of a shakuhachi, and achieved global recognition, reaching No. 1 on the Rock & Metal Albums Chart.
October 2003: Meteora Sales Milestone
By October 2003, "Meteora" had sold nearly three million copies, solidifying its place as a major success.
2003: Meteora's Success
"Meteora" garnered significant attention in 2003, becoming the third best-selling album in the United States despite not reaching the heights of "Hybrid Theory."
2003: Release of "Meteora"
Continuing their successful trajectory, Linkin Park released their second album, "Meteora," in 2003.
2003: MTV2 Recognizes Linkin Park's Music Video Influence
In 2003, MTV2 recognized Linkin Park's impact on music videos, ranking them as the sixth-greatest band of the music video era and the third-best of the new millennium.
2003: MTV2 Recognition
Linkin Park's influence on music was recognized by MTV2 in 2003, ranking them as the sixth greatest band of the music video era and the third best of the new millennium.
March 2004: Donation to Special Operations Warrior Foundation
Linkin Park demonstrated their commitment to charitable causes by donating $75,000 to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation in March 2004.
November 2004: Collision Course Release
Linkin Park collaborated with Jay-Z on the remix album "Collision Course," which was released in November 2004 and featured a fusion of their musical styles.
2004: Meteora World Tour
Linkin Park embarked on their Meteora World Tour in early 2004, with supporting acts such as Hoobastank, P.O.D., and Story of the Year.
2004: Meteora Recognition and Tours
In 2004, Linkin Park achieved considerable recognition for "Meteora," including participating in Projekt Revolution and European concerts.
December 2005: Resolution with Warner Bros. Records
After months of conflict, Linkin Park reached an agreement with Warner Bros. Records in December 2005, addressing trust and financial concerns.
2005: Linkin Park's "Hybrid Theory" Featured in "1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die"
In 2005, Linkin Park's debut album, "Hybrid Theory," was included in the book "1001 Albums You Must Hear Before You Die," solidifying its status as a modern classic.
2005: Hurricane Katrina Relief Efforts
Linkin Park participated in relief efforts for Hurricane Katrina in 2005, showcasing their dedication to supporting those in need.
August 2006: Album Progress and New Sound
By August 2006, Linkin Park had recorded a substantial amount of material for the album, with Shinoda indicating a shift away from their previous nu metal style.
2006: Linkin Park's "QWERTY" Sees Official Release
In 2006, Linkin Park included their song "QWERTY" on their "LP Underground 6.0" fan club release. This marked the first official release of the track, making it available to a wider audience.
2006: Grammy Win and Summer Sonic Performance
In 2006, Linkin Park won a Grammy for Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Numb/Encore" and performed at the Summer Sonic music festival in Japan, hosted by Metallica.
May 15, 2007: Minutes to Midnight Release
Linkin Park's third studio album, "Minutes to Midnight," produced by Rick Rubin, was released on May 15, 2007, after a delay. The album marked a departure from their nu metal sound and addressed new lyrical themes.
July 7, 2007: Live Earth Japan Performance
On July 7, 2007, Linkin Park participated in Live Earth Japan, a global concert series raising awareness about climate change.
2007: Release of "Minutes to Midnight"
In 2007, Linkin Park released "Minutes to Midnight," their third album. The album showcased their exploration of more experimental sounds.
2007: "What I've Done" and American Music Awards Win
In 2007, Linkin Park released "What I've Done," which was featured in the film "Transformers." The band also won "Favorite Alternative Artist" at the American Music Awards.
2007: Linkin Park's "Minutes to Midnight" Achieves Commercial Success
In 2007, Linkin Park's album "Minutes to Midnight" achieved significant commercial success, boasting the highest first-week sales in the United States at the time with 625,000 copies sold. The album's popularity extended internationally, topping charts and selling millions of copies worldwide.
June 29, 2008: Projekt Revolution at Milton Keynes Bowl
Linkin Park held a notable performance at the Milton Keynes Bowl on June 29, 2008, as part of their Projekt Revolution tour. This performance was later released as a live CD/DVD.
November 24, 2008: Release of "Road to Revolution: Live at Milton Keynes"
Linkin Park released "Road to Revolution: Live at Milton Keynes" on November 24, 2008. This live CD/DVD captured their performance from the Projekt Revolution tour stop at the Milton Keynes Bowl earlier that year.
2008: Single Releases
Throughout 2007 and early 2008, Linkin Park released successful singles from "Minutes to Midnight," including "Bleed It Out," "Shadow of the Day," "Given Up," and "Leave Out All the Rest."
May 2009: Announcement of Fourth Studio Album
In May 2009, Linkin Park revealed that they were starting work on their fourth studio album, aiming for a 2010 release.
January 19, 2010: Linkin Park Releases "Not Alone" for Haiti Relief
On January 19, 2010, Linkin Park released "Not Alone" as part of Music for Relief's "Download to Donate for Haiti" compilation, supporting earthquake relief efforts.
February 10, 2010: Linkin Park Releases "Not Alone" Music Video
On February 10, 2010, Linkin Park released the official music video for "Not Alone," further promoting the song and its message of support for Haiti.
August 31, 2010: Announcement of "The Catalyst" Performance at the MTV VMAs
It was announced on August 31, 2010, that Linkin Park would perform their new single, "The Catalyst," live for the first time at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards.
September 12, 2010: Debut Live Performance of "The Catalyst"
Linkin Park debuted "The Catalyst" live at the 2010 MTV Video Music Awards on September 12, 2010, at Griffith Observatory.
October 2010: Launch of A Thousand Suns Concert Tour
Linkin Park kicked off a concert tour in October 2010 to promote their recently released album, "A Thousand Suns."
2010: Planned Release of Fourth Studio Album
Linkin Park planned to release their fourth studio album in 2010, later titled "A Thousand Suns."
2010: Release of "A Thousand Suns"
Linkin Park released "A Thousand Suns," their fourth studio album, in 2010, further experimenting by incorporating more electronic elements into their music.
January 11, 2011: Linkin Park Contributes to Updated Haiti Relief Compilation
On January 11, 2011, Linkin Park participated in the updated "Download to Donate for Haiti V2.0" compilation, contributing Keaton Hashimoto's remix of "The Catalyst." This demonstrated their ongoing support for the cause.
March 22, 2011: Linkin Park Releases "Issho Ni" for Japan Tsunami Relief
On March 22, 2011, Linkin Park released "Issho Ni," meaning "we're in this together," through Music for Relief's "Download to Donate: Tsunami Relief Japan" compilation, responding to the devastating tsunami in Japan.
May 2011: Billboard Ranks Linkin Park Among Highest-Paid Musical Artists
Between May 2011 and May 2012, Linkin Park earned an estimated US$5 million, according to Billboard, placing them 40th on the list of highest-paid musical artists.
July 2011: Bennington Aims for New Album Every 18 Months
Chester Bennington shared with Rolling Stone in July 2011 that Linkin Park aspired to release a new album every eighteen months.
September 2011: Early Stages of New Album Production
In September 2011, Chester Bennington revealed in an interview that Linkin Park had just started working on their next album.
October 21, 2011: Linkin Park Officially Releases "Not Alone" Single
On October 21, 2011, Linkin Park released "Not Alone" as an official single, extending its reach and impact beyond the initial compilation release.
2011: Billboard Award Nominations and Chart Success
Linkin Park received six Billboard Award nominations in 2011, including Top Duo or Group and Best Rock Album, and appeared on multiple Billboard Year-End charts.
March 28, 2012: Filming of "Burn It Down" Music Video
On March 28, 2012, Linkin Park confirmed that they were working with director Joe Hahn to film the music video for their upcoming single "Burn It Down."
April 2012: Announcement of "Living Things"
Linkin Park revealed "Living Things" as the title of their fifth studio album in April 2012, describing it as a more personal work focusing on human connection and experiences.
May 2012: Billboard Ranks Linkin Park Among Highest-Paid Musical Artists
Between May 2011 and May 2012, Linkin Park earned an estimated US$5 million, according to Billboard, placing them 40th on the list of highest-paid musical artists.
2012: Release of "Living Things"
In 2012, Linkin Park released their fifth album, "Living Things." This album blended musical elements from their previous works.
2012: "Castle of Glass" Nominated at Spike Video Game Awards
Linkin Park's single "Castle of Glass" received a nomination for 'Best Song in a Game' at the 2012 Spike Video Game Awards. The band also delivered a performance at the ceremony.
2012: VH1 Bracket Madness Poll
Linkin Park's impact on the 2000s was solidified when they were voted as the greatest artist of the decade in a VH1 Bracket Madness poll in 2012.
May 2013: Recording Begins for *The Hunting Party*
In May 2013, Linkin Park began recording their sixth studio album, *The Hunting Party*, as confirmed by Shinoda in an interview.
August 10, 2013: Collaboration with Steve Aoki
Linkin Park teamed up with Steve Aoki on August 10, 2013, to record "A Light That Never Comes" for their online puzzle-action game, LP Recharge.
September 12, 2013: Launch of LP Recharge
Linkin Park launched their online puzzle-action game, LP Recharge, on Facebook and the official LP Recharge website on September 12, 2013.
October 29, 2013: Release of "Recharged"
Linkin Park released "Recharged" on October 29, 2013, a remix album featuring reworkings of songs from "Living Things" by artists like Pusha T, Datsik, and Rick Rubin.
2013: Linkin Park Performs for Typhoon Haiyan Relief
In 2013, Linkin Park performed at Club Nokia for the "Music for Relief: Concert for the Philippines," raising funds for victims of Typhoon Haiyan. This highlighted their commitment to using their platform for social good.
March 6, 2014: "Guilty All the Same" Released
On March 6, 2014, Linkin Park released "Guilty All the Same," their first single from their upcoming album, *The Hunting Party*. The song, featuring Rakim, debuted at No. 27 on the US Billboard Rock Airplay charts.
June 13, 2014: *The Hunting Party* Released
Linkin Park released their sixth studio album, *The Hunting Party*, in most countries on June 13, 2014. The album, produced by Shinoda and Delson, was described as a return to the band's earlier sound, with a "90s style of rock."
June 14, 2014: Performance at Download Festival
On June 14, 2014, Linkin Park performed at Download Festival, where they notably played their debut album, *Hybrid Theory*, in its entirety.
November 9, 2014: MTV Europe Music Award Win
Linkin Park was named "Best Rock" act of 2014 at the MTV Europe Music Awards on November 9, 2014.
2014: Kerrang! Names Linkin Park "Biggest Rock Band in the World Right Now"
In 2014, Kerrang! magazine declared Linkin Park as the "Biggest Rock Band in the World Right Now," solidifying their position as a leading force in rock music.
2014: Kerrang! Accolade
In 2014, Linkin Park reached a pinnacle moment when Kerrang!, a rock magazine, declared them "The Biggest Rock Band in the World Right Now."
2014: Release of "The Hunting Party"
Linkin Park released their sixth album, "The Hunting Party," in 2014, marking a return to a heavier rock sound.
January 2015: *The Hunting Party* Tour Begins
In January 2015, Linkin Park kicked off a tour to promote their album, *The Hunting Party*. The tour, consisting of 17 concerts across the US and Canada, was unfortunately cut short after only three shows due to Bennington injuring his ankle.
February 28, 2015: "Darker Than Blood" Previewed
On February 28, 2015, Steve Aoki previewed his collaboration with Linkin Park, "Darker Than Blood," during his performance at the Aragon Ballroom in Chicago. The song was included on Aoki's album *Neon Future II*.
May 2015: "Darker Than Blood" Release and *Neon Future II*
Steve Aoki's album *Neon Future II*, which features the Linkin Park collaboration "Darker Than Blood," was released in May 2015.
November 2015: Work Begins on Seventh Studio Album
Linkin Park began working on new material for their seventh studio album in November 2015. Chester Bennington hinted at the album's direction, expressing hope that it would challenge and inspire their fanbase.
2015: Performance at BlizzCon 2015
Linkin Park performed at the closing ceremony of BlizzCon 2015, a video game convention organized by Blizzard Entertainment.
2015: Kerrang! Ranks Linkin Park Songs in Rock 100
In 2015, Kerrang! featured Linkin Park's songs "In the End" and "Final Masquerade" in their Rock 100 list, highlighting their enduring popularity and influence.
2016: Shinoda Comments on Future Album
In a 2016 interview, Mike Shinoda reflected on the positive reception of *The Hunting Party* and indicated the band's intention to explore a new direction for their next album, which was planned for a 2016 release.
February 2017: Promotional Videos Released, New Album Process
In February 2017, Linkin Park used their social media platforms to release videos showing Shinoda and Bennington working on new music. Shinoda mentioned that they were taking a new approach to producing the album, a sentiment echoed by Delson, who emphasized the band's conscious effort to avoid complacency.
May 19, 2017: *One More Light* Released
Linkin Park released their seventh studio album, *One More Light*, on May 19, 2017. The album's cover, featuring children playing in the ocean, was revealed through a series of online puzzles.
July 2017: Chester Bennington's Passing and Band's Indefinite Hiatus
In a heartbreaking turn of events, Chester Bennington died by suicide in July 2017. Deeply affected by the loss, Linkin Park decided to go on an indefinite hiatus.
July 20, 2017: Chester Bennington's Death
Chester Bennington tragically passed away on July 20, 2017, from suicide by hanging. His death sent shockwaves through the music world and led to an outpouring of grief from fans.
November 2017: American Music Award Win and Dedication to Bennington
Linkin Park won the Favorite Alternative Artist award at the American Music Awards in November 2017. The band dedicated the award to Chester Bennington, honoring his memory and impact.
December 17, 2017: Shinoda Addresses Hologram Speculation
During an Instagram live chat on December 17, 2017, Mike Shinoda firmly dismissed the notion of Linkin Park performing with a hologram of Chester Bennington in the future, emphasizing his respect for Bennington's memory and the band's legacy.
2017: Chester Bennington's Death and Band's Hiatus
Tragically, in 2017, Chester Bennington, Linkin Park's vocalist, passed away. Following this devastating loss, the band went on an indefinite hiatus.
January 28, 2018: Shinoda Discusses Future of Linkin Park
On January 28, 2018, Mike Shinoda publicly stated his commitment to continuing Linkin Park, echoing the sentiments of the other band members. He acknowledged the need for the band to rebuild and reflect following Chester Bennington's passing.
February 18, 2019: Shinoda Open to Continuing Linkin Park
On February 18, 2019, Mike Shinoda expressed openness to continuing Linkin Park, though the specific format remained undecided. He emphasized the band members' passion for performing and creating music. He clarified that finding a new lead vocalist wasn't a priority, and any such decision would need to happen organically, without attempting to replace Chester Bennington.
April 28, 2020: Linkin Park Working on New Music
On April 28, 2020, Dave Farrell revealed that Linkin Park was actively working on new music, signaling a potential return to creating new material.
August 20, 2020: Linkin Park Collaborates with "Beat Saber"
On August 20, 2020, in celebration of their 20th anniversary, Linkin Park collaborated with the virtual reality rhythm game "Beat Saber" to release 11 maps based on their songs, offering a new and immersive way for fans to experience their music.
January 8, 2021: Linkin Park Releases "One Step Closer" Remix
On January 8, 2021, Linkin Park released a remix of their song "One Step Closer" by 100 gecs. This marked the first in a series of remixes inspired by their album "Reanimation."
April 2022: Shinoda Provides Update on Linkin Park's Future
In April 2022, Mike Shinoda shared that Linkin Park was not currently focused on creating a new album, releasing new music, or touring. This suggested that the band was taking time to re-evaluate their future direction.
February 2023: Linkin Park Teases "Meteora" 20th Anniversary
In February 2023, Linkin Park launched an interactive game on their website to build anticipation for the 20th anniversary of their album "Meteora." This marked the beginning of a campaign to celebrate the album's legacy.
December 2023: Linkin Park and Friends: Celebrate Life in Honor of Chester Bennington
As of December 2023, the "Linkin Park and Friends: Celebrate Life in Honor of Chester Bennington" concert, which was streamed live on YouTube, had garnered 24.7 million views, demonstrating the enduring legacy of the band and their late frontman.
2023: Linkin Park's "Papercuts" Album Released
In 2023, Linkin Park released "Papercuts," their first greatest hits album, spanning their most successful singles from 2000 to 2023. This compilation showcased their evolution and impact on the music scene.
February 23, 2024: Linkin Park Releases "Friendly Fire"
On February 23, 2024, Linkin Park released "Friendly Fire," an unreleased song from their "One More Light" recording sessions. The track provided fans with previously unheard material and further explored the band's creative process.
April 30, 2024: Billboard Reports on Potential Linkin Park Reunion Tour
On April 30, 2024, Billboard reported that Linkin Park's booking agency, WME, was considering offers for a potential reunion tour and festival appearances in 2025. The proposed lineup included surviving members and a female vocalist to replace Chester Bennington.
2024: Release of "Papercuts"
In 2024, Linkin Park released "Papercuts," a greatest hits album. This release, along with 20th-anniversary editions of their first two albums, were the only releases since Bennington's passing.
2025: Billboard Reports on Potential Linkin Park Reunion Tour
On April 30, 2024, Billboard reported that Linkin Park's booking agency, WME, was considering offers for a potential reunion tour and festival appearances in 2025. The proposed lineup included surviving members and a female vocalist to replace Chester Bennington.