Linkin Park was an American rock band formed in Agoura Hills, California, in 1996. Known for blending nu-metal, rap, electronic, and alternative rock, the band achieved massive success in the early 2000s with albums like Hybrid Theory and Meteora. Led by vocalists Chester Bennington and Mike Shinoda, Linkin Park’s emotionally charged lyrics and innovative sound garnered a worldwide fan base. Their music explored themes of loss, identity, and personal struggle, making them one of the best-selling bands of the 21st century.
1996 The band is formed under the name Xero by high school friends Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, and Rob Bourdon.
1999 Chester Bennington joins as lead vocalist, and the band changes its name to Linkin Park.
2000 Release of debut album Hybrid Theory, which becomes a global phenomenon with hits like "In the End" and "Crawling." The album is certified Diamond in the U.S.
2003 Meteora is released, solidifying the band’s success with tracks like "Numb," "Somewhere I Belong," and "Breaking the Habit."
2007 Minutes to Midnight is released, marking a shift in the band’s sound with more alternative rock elements. "What I’ve Done" becomes a major hit.
2010 A Thousand Suns, an experimental concept album, is released. It explores themes of war and humanity with songs like "The Catalyst" and "Waiting for the End."
2012 Living Things is released, blending electronic and rock elements, featuring tracks like "Burn It Down."
2014 The Hunting Party returns to a heavier rock sound, featuring collaborations with artists like Daron Malakian and Tom Morello.
2017 One More Light is released, showcasing a more pop-oriented sound. The album receives mixed reviews but includes the single "Heavy."
2017 Chester Bennington tragically passes away, leading the band to go on an indefinite hiatus as they mourn his loss.
2002 Best Hard Rock Performance for "Crawling"
2006 Best Rap/Sung Collaboration for "Numb/Encore" with Jay-Z
2004 Collaborated with Jay-Z on the mash-up album Collision Course, which received critical acclaim and furthered the crossover appeal of both artists.
2017 Following Chester Bennington’s death, the band holds a tribute concert, "Linkin Park and Friends: Celebrate Life in Honor of Chester Bennington," featuring guest performances by artists like Blink-182 and System of a Down.
2018 Mike Shinoda releases a solo album, Post Traumatic, dealing with his grief after Chester’s passing, leading to speculation about Linkin Park's future.