Linkin Park’s Triumphant Return: ‘Heavy is the Crown’ and the Path to ‘From Zero’

Linkin Park has made a monumental return to the music scene, captivating fans worldwide with their latest single, ‘Heavy is the Crown.’ Released on September 24, 2024, this track marks a significant milestone in the band’s illustrious career. The song was strategically launched to coincide with the League of Legends World Championship, a testament to the band’s innovative approach to music and entertainment. The single has already made waves, reaching number 15 on the U.S. iTunes song chart and showing promise of climbing even higher. This resurgence in popularity is not just a fleeting moment; it signifies Linkin Park’s enduring appeal and their ability to adapt and thrive in the ever-evolving music industry.

‘Heavy is the Crown’ is the second single from Linkin Park’s highly anticipated album, ‘From Zero,’ following the success of ‘The Emptiness Machine.’ The latter has already dominated multiple Billboard rankings, staying at number one for over two weeks. This new single carries special significance as it has been chosen as the anthem for the 2024 League of Legends World Championship, further solidifying the band’s influence across different entertainment sectors. The collaboration with Riot Games, the creators of League of Legends, highlights the symbiotic relationship between music and gaming, two industries that have increasingly intersected in recent years.

The announcement of ‘Heavy is the Crown’ was met with overwhelming enthusiasm from fans, many of whom had been eagerly awaiting new material from the band. The single’s release was accompanied by a music video that features animated versions of the band members performing in a throne room, interspersed with scenes of the reigning League of Legends champions, T1, battling to retain their title. This visually stunning video has added another layer of excitement, drawing in both music lovers and gaming enthusiasts. The inclusion of Lee ‘Faker’ Sang-hyeok, a legendary figure in the esports world, further bridges the gap between these two communities.

Linkin Park’s return is not limited to new music; the band has also announced an extensive world tour to promote ‘From Zero.’ The tour kicked off with a powerful performance in Los Angeles, described by Variety’s Chris Willman as a ‘roaring comeback.’ The band’s lineup now includes Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Dave Farrell, Joe Hahn, Emily Armstrong, and Colin Brittain. This new configuration has breathed fresh life into the band’s performances, with Shinoda and Armstrong taking on co-frontman and co-frontwoman duties. Despite some initial controversy surrounding Armstrong’s addition, her presence has been well-received by audiences, proving that the band’s risk paid off.

The tour has already seen sold-out shows in major cities like Paris, Dallas, and São Paulo, prompting the band to add more dates to meet the high demand. Exclusive presales for fan club members began on September 25, with general sales starting on September 27. The band’s commitment to connecting with their fans is evident in these additional dates, ensuring that as many people as possible can experience their electrifying performances. The tour will also include stops in London, Seoul, and Bogota, making it a truly global event that showcases Linkin Park’s new music and their iconic hits.

In addition to their live performances, Linkin Park has made several notable appearances on popular television shows. They performed ‘The Emptiness Machine’ on NBC’s ‘The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon,’ receiving praise from critics and fans alike. The New York Times described the track as ‘bombastic,’ highlighting the band’s ability to stay true to their signature style while exploring new musical territories. These appearances have helped to maintain the band’s visibility and relevance in the competitive music landscape, further fueling anticipation for their upcoming album.

‘From Zero,’ set to be released on November 15, 2024, is already being hailed as a dynamic extension of Linkin Park’s sound. Billboard magazine featured the band on their cover, praising the album’s sense of energy and urgency. The album is a blend of the band’s past, present, and future, reflecting their journey and evolution over the years. It promises to deliver the raw emotion and powerful lyrics that fans have come to expect, while also introducing new elements that showcase the band’s growth and experimentation.

The collaboration with Riot Games for the League of Legends World Championship anthem is a significant milestone for Linkin Park. Previous anthems for the event have been performed by global superstars like Imagine Dragons, Lil Nas X, and Zedd, collectively amassing over 10 billion streams. ‘Heavy is the Crown’ is expected to follow in these footsteps, further cementing Linkin Park’s status as a powerhouse in the music industry. Maria Egan, global head of music at Riot Games, expressed her excitement about the partnership, noting that the song captures the narrative of this year’s Worlds event perfectly.

Linkin Park’s involvement in the League of Legends World Championship extends beyond just the anthem. The band’s music video for ‘Heavy is the Crown’ prominently features T1, the current world champions, and their star player, Lee ‘Faker’ Sang-hyeok. Faker’s inclusion in the video is a nod to his legendary status in the esports community, where he is considered the greatest player in League of Legends history. The video, created by Fortiche Studio, who previously worked on Imagine Dragons’ ‘Enemy’ music video, is a visual feast that complements the intensity and drama of the song.

The League of Legends World Championship Finals, set to take place on November 2 at the O2 Arena in London, is one of the biggest esports events of the year. The opening ceremony is known for its over-the-top production, and rumors are swirling that Linkin Park will perform ‘Heavy is the Crown’ live. This performance would be a fitting culmination of the band’s collaboration with Riot Games, bringing together fans of music and gaming in a spectacular display of talent and creativity. The anticipation for this event is palpable, with millions of viewers expected to tune in from around the world.

Linkin Park’s return has not been without its challenges. The addition of new vocalist Emily Armstrong sparked controversy due to her association with the Church of Scientology and her support of a convicted rapist. This has led to a divided fan base, with some unsure whether to continue supporting the band. However, the overwhelming response to their new music and sold-out tour dates indicates that many fans are willing to give the band a chance. The band’s ability to navigate these controversies while delivering powerful performances speaks to their resilience and dedication to their craft.

Overall, Linkin Park’s return to the music scene with ‘Heavy is the Crown’ and the upcoming album ‘From Zero’ is a testament to their enduring legacy and ability to innovate. The band’s collaboration with Riot Games for the League of Legends World Championship anthem has further solidified their place in the intersection of music and gaming. With a successful tour, new music, and a highly anticipated album on the horizon, Linkin Park is poised to continue their reign as one of the most influential bands in modern music. Fans around the world eagerly await what the band has in store next, confident that Linkin Park will continue to push boundaries and deliver unforgettable experiences.