Justin Sargent is the new singer of Skid Row, stepping into the role following a search that included a campaign that saw 1,500 singers submit auditions.
Finding Justin Sargent in New Jersey
The 40-year-old from New Jersey and former Broadway performer did not apply through the band’s online campaign hosted by Sweetwater. Instead, Skid Row manager Robby Hoffman discovered Sargent by chance while attending a charity gig in New Jersey where Sargent performed. Hoffman called bassist and founding member Rachel Bolan immediately after the performance to report finding the sound they were looking for.
Bolan noted the coincidence of finding a vocalist just a few exits up the parkway after listening to stuff from all over the world. When Sargent came in to audition, he learned the whole set rather than the five songs the band had sent him, which the band were not expecting. After keeping their word to continue other auditions, the band finalized the decision and delivered the news to Sargent via a FaceTime call.
Rejecting a Sebastian Bach Reunion
When asked about the possibility of reuniting with their former singer Sebastian Bach, Bolan stated flatly: “It’s never gonna happen.” Bolan explained that the past is the past and that the current lineup focuses entirely on moving forward with new music and upcoming tours rather than pursuing reunions for bigger paychecks.
Official Press ReleaseSkid Row Announce New Lead Singer Justin Sargent & tour datesA new chapter begins for SKID ROW. After more than two years away from the stage and an extensive global search, legendary hard rock band SKID ROW have officially announced JUSTIN SARGENT as… pic.twitter.com/JSZzQ02iRX
The vocal position carries an element of online judgment from fans comparing any new singer to Bach’s benchmark performances. Sargent acknowledged the pressure, joking that he considered buying a flip phone to avoid digital temptation. Bolan praised Sargent’s vocal power and range, stating that the new singer handles demanding tracks like “18 And Life,” “Monkey Business,” and “I Remember You” with ease.
Recording The Who Cover and Writing New Material
Skid Row’s first recording with Sargent is a cover of The Who’s 1971 classic “Won’t Get Fooled Again.” Sargent suggested the track during a Zoom brainstorming session with the band, drawing on classic rock tracks his parents raised him on. Producer Nick Raskulinecz oversaw the recording sessions, telling the band that if Sargent wasn’t as good as he is, they probably wouldn’t have finished as quickly as they did.
Alongside the cover, guitarists Dave ‘Snake’ Sabo and Scotti Hill have spent their downtime writing original material with Bolan. Sargent has visited the studio to lay down demo vocals for the upcoming project, which the band plans to record. Skid Row has a slate of live shows scheduled to launch their next chapter with Sargent fronting the band.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Erik Grönwall leave Skid Row?
Swedish frontman Erik Grönwall was forced to leave the band due to health issues, leading to guest live appearances from Halestorm singer Lzzy Hale before the band initiated their search for a permanent replacement.
How many singers auditioned through the online campaign?
1,500 singers submitted auditions via the Sweetwater campaign before the band ultimately discovered Sargent locally in New Jersey.
Who are the remaining founding members of Skid Row?
Bassist and founding member Rachel Bolan plays alongside guitarists Dave ‘Snake’ Sabo and Scotti Hill, with drummer Rob Hammersmith rounding out the current lineup since 2010.
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