New Jersey singer Justin Sargent becomes the latest frontman in Skid Row’s 40-year history, with the band introducing their new line-up through a Nick Raskulinecz-produced version of The Who’s ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’.
Skid Row have ended their search for a new lead singer, announcing New Jersey vocalist Justin Sargent as the man who will front the band into its next chapter. The appointment brings an end to more than two years of uncertainty following the departure of Erik Grönwall and gives the band a new voice as they mark their 40th anniversary.
The announcement comes with the release of Skid Row’s recording of The Who classic ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’, produced by Nick Raskulinecz, who previously worked with the band on their 2022 album The Gang’s All Here. A new video, directed by Dale ‘Rage’ Resteghini, introduces Sargent alongside the current band members.
The choice of Sargent has a particularly fitting element. After looking internationally for someone capable of taking on one of hard rock’s most demanding vocal positions, Skid Row ultimately found their man in the same state where the band began.
Formed in New Jersey in 1986, Skid Row have spent four decades building a catalogue that includes ‘Youth Gone Wild’, ’18 And Life’, ‘I Remember You’ and ‘Slave To The Grind’. Finding a singer who can respect that history while bringing something of his own to the performances has been central to the band’s search.
Guitarist Rachel Bolan said the connection with Sargent was immediate.
“Honestly, for me, it felt like he had been here from the beginning as soon as he walked in the room. He was one of us. A lifer. Then he sang with so much power and conviction, it blew me away. It was amazing.”
Guitarist Dave ‘Snake’ Sabo also described the audition as the moment the band recognised the right candidate.
“We were so fortunate to receive so many audition submissions from singers wanting to front the band. We wanna thank everyone for their time and effort. There are some truly amazing singers out there! But I think that the moment Justin walked in the door we all kind of knew he was the guy. Everything about him; his voice, his attitude, his demeanor, it all just fit. We can’t wait to hit the ground running and get back to doing what we love to do.”
Earlier in the year, Skid Row partnered with American music retailer Sweetwater to extend the search, inviting vocalists from around the world to submit auditions. The response gave the band an opportunity to consider a broad field of candidates before settling on Sargent.
For the new singer, joining the group is an opportunity he had never expected to receive.
“I’ve been singing Skid Row songs for years, but never imagined I’d actually be joining the band! It’s an incredible honour to be part of something with such a legendary history. The chemistry and energy we’ve found together over the past several months has been amazing. I have tremendous respect for the band’s legacy, but I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. I can’t wait to get out there, connect with the fans, and give them everything I’ve got. Let’s go!”
The decision to introduce Sargent with a cover of The Who’s ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is an interesting statement. Rather than debuting with an original composition, Skid Row have chosen one of rock’s most recognisable recordings, a song that demands both vocal authority and a band capable of delivering considerable musical intensity.
The original appeared on The Who’s 1971 album Who’s Next, written by Pete Townshend. Its explosive arrangement and climactic vocal performance have made it one of the defining recordings of British rock.
Skid Row guitarist Scotti Hill described the song as “an anthem of generations”, recalling its ability to make listeners turn up the volume whenever it comes on the radio.
Drummer Rob Hammersmith sees the recording as a declaration of intent.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again isn’t just about making noise – it’s about setting a standard and making a statement: two rock ‘n’ roll elements The Who helped write the book on. Standing on the shoulders of these giants is the ultimate launchpad to signal a loud, unapologetic new era for us!”
Raskulinecz’s return is another significant connection to the band’s recent recording history. His production work on The Gang’s All Here helped establish the sound of the Grönwall era, and his involvement with the new single provides continuity as the group moves forward with a different vocalist.
The accompanying video was directed by Dale ‘Rage’ Resteghini, whose previous music video credits include Five Finger Death Punch, Guns N’ Roses and Alter Bridge. The visual focuses on the current five-piece performing together, giving listeners their first substantial introduction to Sargent in his new role.
A limited hand-signed seven-inch vinyl edition of ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is also available for pre-order, with only 500 copies being pressed worldwide.
Skid Row’s changing vocal line-up has been one of the defining stories of the band’s later career. Sebastian Bach fronted the group during its commercially successful early period, including the multi-platinum albums Skid Row and Slave To The Grind. Johnny Solinger subsequently held the position from the late 1990s until 2015, followed by brief tenures from Tony Harnell and ZP Theart.
Erik Grönwall became the singer in 2022 and recorded The Gang’s All Here. He departed in 2024 for health reasons, with Halestorm vocalist Lzzy Hale temporarily stepping in for live performances.
Sargent now takes on the responsibility of carrying the catalogue into its next phase alongside Sabo, Bolan, Hill and Hammersmith.
After more than two years away from the stage, the appointment removes the biggest obstacle to Skid Row returning as a full-time performing unit. The band have not yet detailed their next touring schedule or confirmed what original new material may follow the single.
For now, the combination of a new singer, a familiar production collaborator and a classic rock cover provides the introduction. Skid Row have found their next frontman at home in New Jersey. The next test will come when Sargent takes those songs in front of the audience that has followed the band for 40 years.
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