In a heartfelt announcement that resonated with rock fans across the globe, Kelly Hansen, the lead singer of the legendary rock band Foreigner, revealed on May 21, 2025, that he would be stepping down from his role after an incredible two-decade tenure. Hansen made the announcement during the season finale of NBC’s The Voice, where he shared his decision to pass the torch to a new generation of talent. His departure marks the end of an era for Foreigner, a band that has produced some of the most iconic rock anthems of the past few decades.
Hansen joined Foreigner in 2005, following the departure of the band’s original frontman, Lou Gramm. Over the years, Hansen’s powerful voice and charismatic stage presence helped solidify the band’s place in rock history. Under his leadership, Foreigner produced chart-topping hits, such as “Cold As Ice,” “I Want to Know What Love Is,” and “Waiting for a Girl Like You.” His contributions were instrumental in reviving the band’s popularity, with sold-out tours and an ever-growing fan base worldwide.
The announcement of Hansen’s departure was filled with gratitude, as he expressed his appreciation for the years spent fronting the band. “It’s been an honor to front this band and perform for our incredible fans,” Hansen said during the live broadcast. “But I believe it’s time to pass the mic to the next generation.” His words were met with an outpouring of support from fans, who have followed Hansen’s journey with Foreigner and witnessed the band’s enduring impact on the rock genre.
Hansen’s successor, Luis Maldonado, was introduced live on The Voice as the new lead singer of Foreigner. Maldonado, who is known for his dynamic stage presence and impressive vocal abilities, previously served as the lead guitarist for the band Train. His transition into the role of lead singer marks a fresh chapter for Foreigner, and fans are eager to see how Maldonado will carry forward the band’s legacy while adding his own unique style to the iconic sound. In his statement, Maldonado echoed Hansen’s sentiments, vowing to honor the band’s rich history and continue its legacy while also injecting his own energy into the band’s performances.
“While it’s a big responsibility to step into these shoes, I’m excited to honor the legacy of Foreigner and bring something new to the table,” Maldonado said. His announcement was met with excitement from fans, many of whom are familiar with his work in Train and his extensive experience in the music industry.
Foreigner is already planning for the future, with a North American tour scheduled to kick off on June 11, 2025. This tour promises to showcase the band’s timeless hits while introducing fans to the new dynamic brought by Maldonado’s leadership. Additionally, Foreigner is gearing up for a Las Vegas residency in March 2026, which will be a major highlight of their 50th-anniversary celebrations. The residency, which will run through several months, promises to be an unforgettable experience for fans, offering a mix of classic tracks and exciting new material.
The enduring appeal of Foreigner, combined with the fresh energy brought by Maldonado, ensures that the band’s legacy will continue to captivate audiences for years to come. As they prepare for their anniversary celebrations, it’s clear that Foreigner is entering a thrilling new phase, ready to honor its past while embracing the future.
