Linkin Park removes One More Light from live shows after Chester Bennington’s death

Linkin Park has confirmed that the song One More Light will no longer feature in their live performances following the death of frontman Chester Bennington.

The track, which was the title song of the band’s final album with Bennington, has been described as “too sad to play” by co-founder Mike Shinoda.

In an interview with The Guardian, Shinoda explained that the song was originally written for a colleague at their record label who had passed away.

“Then, after Chester passed, the world decided that it was about him. And so that's just too sad to play,” he said.

Bennington died in 2017, and Shinoda later released his solo album Post Traumatic, which reflected his personal grief while maintaining a connection with fans. He said the album offered a place where fans could feel reassured that he was still present for them.

Following Bennington’s passing, Shinoda shared that performing live eventually became “exhausting” as he coped with his own grief while recognising the emotional reactions of fans during concerts. He compared the experience to therapists who require support themselves after helping others.

Linkin Park has since returned to live performances with a new lead singer, Emily Armstrong, and drummer Colin Brittain, following a seven-year hiatus.

Bassist Dave “Phoenix” Farrell recently spoke about the band’s return and working with new members during an interview with 98 Rock radio.