Iconic Rock Band Foreigner Announces Major Change
Kelly Hansen, lead singer of the iconic rock band Foreigner, revealed that he will be leaving the band and announced his replacement during a performance on The Voice which aired on May 20. Foreigner has produced many hits, including “Feels Like the First Time” (1977); “Hot Blooded” (1978); “Waiting for a Girl Like You” (1981); and “I Want to Know What Love Is” (1984).
Hansen, 64, replaced Lou Gramm as the band’s lead vocalist in 2005. He plans to retire from his position following Foreigner’s summer 2025 tour. “Being the voice of Foreigner has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hansen said in a statement following the announcement (via People). “But it’s time to pass the mic.”
Related: Authorities Recover Long-Missing Statue of Jim Morrison
On The Voice, Hansen announced that Luis Maldonado would be replacing him as the voice of Foreigner. Maldonado joined the band in 2021 as a rhythm guitarist. “Luis has the voice, the energy, and the soul to carry these songs into the future,” Hansen said. “I couldn’t be prouder to hand this off to him.”
Foreigner was founded in 1976 by Mick Jones, the only remaining original member of the band. “In 1976, my goal was to assemble the finest group of musicians I could find. Results have shown that it worked!” Jones said in the statement. “About 30 years later, [then-drummer] Jason Bonham encouraged me to do it all over again and create a brand-new Foreigner, and the magic was still there.”
Related: 400-Lb. Grizzly Bear Killed at Popular National Park
Jones went on to praise Hansen, saying he was “especially fortunate” to find someone with “his boundless energy and talent,” calling him “one of the best front men in our business.” Hansen’s leadership allowed the new band to “climb the mountain and set up the opportunity for Foreigner vocalist and guitarist, Luis Maldonado, to bring us home.”
“Over the last twenty years, he has breathed new life into our songs,” Jones added. “I wish Kelly great happiness in his next endeavors after our summer tour, and I look forward to welcoming Luis to his new position.”
Related: Truck Driver Wins Jackpot After Chance Lottery Ticket Purchase