Linkin Park‘s new vocalist Emily Armstrong and bassist Phoenix (Dave Farrell) recently opened up about the mental strategies they employ when facing massive concerts, like their highly anticipated June 28th performance at London’s iconic Wembley Stadium. Speaking on the ‘Loudwire Nights‘ radio show this past Tuesday (April 22), the pair discussed managing pre-show anxiety and the energy Armstrong brings to the band.
Both musicians admitted that focusing too heavily on the sheer scale of a major event can be overwhelming. Phoenix revealed his approach: “The real answer for me is I try not to think about that kind of stuff too far out… I don’t know if it’s the best strategy, but I try not to think about it too much because I can kind of freak myself out.”
Armstrong immediately concurred with her bandmate. “Absolutely,” she affirmed, adding, “I could freak myself out pretty easily.” Her method involves maintaining perspective: “Every show matters. That’s what I think. Every show is just a show.”
Phoenix elaborated on the power of nerves, recalling the intense physical reaction he experienced before Linkin Park‘s first show with Armstrong in 2024. “I didn’t know if I was getting sick or what was going on, but like, in my guts, everything was just kind of clenching and moving,” he shared. Rather than viewing this as negative, he now sees it as a vital sign of engagement: “Thankfully, it was just nerves. It really made me think that if I don’t have that a little bit… then something’s off. It’s awesome to be able to still care enough to have that doing things in your body.”
Armstrong feels similarly about maintaining a level of nervous energy. “There’s still nerves and stuff, which I feel like I don’t ever want to fully dissipate. I like it,” she explained, adding with a laugh, “I mean, they’ve settled, but hopefully not forever.”
During the interview, Phoenix also spoke glowingly about Armstrong‘s integration into the band, describing her presence as “life-giving in every sense” and her “headspace on what we’re doing is so refreshing.” He expressed deep appreciation for the fan reception to their new music, highlighting the thrill of hearing audiences embrace the latest tracks alongside beloved classics. “People singing the songs as loud as any of the other catalog, that’s the dream, isn’t it?” Phoenix reflected.
The conversation offered fans insight into how Linkin Park manages the pressure of their high-profile return, embracing nerves as a sign of passion while celebrating the connection forged with audiences through their new chapter.
You can listen to the whole conversation at: https://loudwire.com/podcast/popup/?id=6462804e1c31fe6239bf1f41&item=0&theme=light&playertype=player
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