Who is Linkin Park? Performing at Champions League Final, Opening Song, Legacy

Linkin Park stands as a monumental figure in the rock music scene over the past 25 years. Their upcoming performance at the 2025 UEFA Champions League Final Kick Off Show on May 31 is a testament to their enduring legacy. As Paris Saint-Germain takes on Inter Milan at the Allianz Arena in Munich, Linkin Park will grace the stage with a live performance of a special remix of their iconic song, Numb.

This isn’t the band’s first foray into creating music for major events. They previously collaborated with Riot Games on the track “Heavy is the Crown” for the League of Legends World Championship, showcasing their versatility and ability to tailor their sound to specific occasions.

Originating in 1996, Linkin Park includes members such as Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Joe Hahn, Dave Farrell, Emily Armstrong, and Colin Brittain in their current touring lineup. Their breakthrough album, “Hybrid Theory,” introduced a unique blend of nu metal with Shinoda’s rap vocals and Chester Bennington’s powerful singing. Throughout their career, spanning from 2000 to 2017, the band released seven studio albums that achieved immense success on the charts.

Tragically, Bennington’s untimely passing in 2017 marked a turning point for the band. Following a tribute concert to honor his memory, Linkin Park took a hiatus before making a triumphant return with a surprise livestream event. Introducing Emily Armstrong as their new vocalist, the band released their eighth album, “From Zero,” which soared to the number two spot on the US Billboard 200 and topped the Top Rock Albums chart.

For the Champions League Final, Linkin Park will showcase a unique remix of “Numb” inspired by the sounds of football. The band’s bassist, Dave Farrell, expressed his love for the sport, citing his coaching experience with his daughters as a contributing factor to his passion for the game. He highlighted the increasing popularity of soccer in the US, especially with the arrival of international superstar Lionel Messi, and emphasized the importance of a strong performance by the US men’s national team in upcoming competitions.

Linkin Park’s performance at the Champions League Final promises to be a highlight of the event, showcasing their continued relevance and adaptability as a band. With a rich history of chart-topping hits and a commitment to creating music tailored to special occasions, Linkin Park’s enduring legacy in the music industry remains undisputed.