It’s been more than two years since Skid Row has had a permanent (is that even possible) lead vocalist. Yeah, Lzzy Hale of Halestorm filled in for a few dates awhile back — and killed it, too. But the band has been pretty much stuck in the mud otherwise, since former lead vocalist Erik Gronwald left in March, 2024, over health issues. Gronwald had been Skid Row’s fourth singer since original lead vocalist Sebastian Bach was booted from the band sometime last century.
In the meantime, Skid Row was actively accepting demos from singers worldwide, and eventually even teamed up with music retailer Sweetwater to expand their search. After listening to vocalists from around the globe, however, the band found their next frontman right around the corner from their New Jersey homes.
Justin Sargent is the new guy, and he has a pretty cool track record to boast about. Sargent is actually a Broadway theater star who played Peter Parker in “Spiderman: Turn Off The Dark,” which featured music written by Bono and The Edge of U2. The actor and singer also played Drew in the hit rock musical “Rock Of Ages,” and was in the original Broadway cast of “Bonnie & Clyde.”
Of course the band issued the typical press release statements about their new bandmate. Guitarist Dave “Snake” Sabo had this to say: “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.”
Bassist Rachel Bolan said, “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.”
And Sargent himself commented, “I’ve been singing Skid Row songs for years, but never imagined I’d actually be joining the band! It’s an incredible honor 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!”
To kick things off, the band and Sargent have recorded and released a cover of The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” and are planning tour dates, with some already announced for 2027.
Watch Skid Row’s new video:
