Kelly Hansen has revealed that he's stepping down as the lead vocalist for Foreigner. As he did so, he revealed the band member that's taking over for him. And I think we're in safe hands.
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On the season finale of The Voice on Tuesday, Foreigner took the stage for a performance. But it wasn't just any regular show, as it was Kelly Hansen's, 64, final performance for the band.
Kelly Hansen took over in 2005 after Lou Gramm left in 2003. For 20 years, he's fronted the band, and provided stellar vocals for the band's new songs and the classics alike. Well, we won't be hearing from him anymore.
After a rendition of "Feels Like The First Time," Hansen announced the news. "After 20 magical years fronting this band, this will be my last year with Foreigner," he said to the crowd. "At the end of this summer, a new great voice will sing these songs for you."
That's when the fourth lead vocalist of Foreigner was revealed: Luis Maldonado.
Maldonado has been the band's guitarist since 2021, and has filled the role of lead singer before, so super fans should be incredibly pleased with this announcement.
He took the spotlight before diving into "Juke Box Hero." And he absolutely killed it. His vocal range is incredible.
Both Maldonado and Hansen then performed "I Want to Know What Love Is."
Foreigner In Very Safe Hands With Luis Maldonado
I can't wait to hear more from Luis Maldonado. He's an extremely talented singer and will do the band justice.
After the announcement, Hansen had more to say. "Being the voice of Foreigner has been one of the greatest honors of my life," he said.
"But it's time to pass the mic. Luis has the voice, the energy, and the soul to carry these songs into the future. I couldn't be prouder to hand this off to him."
Maldonado said that he's ready to step up for the band. "This music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I'm ready to honor Foreigner's legacy and bring my heart to every performance."
At the end of their summer tour, Kelly Hansen will officially step down, and Luis Maldonado will be the official frontman.
