Nazareth Reveals New Lead Vocalist for Upcoming Touring Season
Nazareth recently made the decision to part ways with their long-time frontman, Carl Sentence, who had been with the band since 2015 when original frontman Dan McCafferty retired. Co-founding bassist Pete Agnew confirmed Sentence’s departure in an official statement, revealing that he is no longer part of the band. However, Nazareth wasted no time and have already found a replacement in the form of Gianni Pontillo.
Agnew introduced Pontillo as the band’s new lead singer, expressing excitement about the incredible voice that he brings to the table. Having previously worked with the German heavy metal band Victory alongside ex-Accept guitarist Herman Frank, Pontillo is no stranger to the rock music scene. The band recently completed their Bending the Rules Tour in Berlin and plans to hit the road again in 2026, marking one of the busiest years in Nazareth’s history.
Nazareth originated in Scotland back in December 1968, consisting of members Dan McCafferty, Pete Agnew, Manny Charlton, and Darrell Sweet. Over the years, the band faced the loss of some of its original members, with McCafferty passing away in 2022 and Sweet in 1999. McCafferty’s retirement in 2013 due to a chronic obstructive pulmonary disease signaled a turning point for the band, leading to a shift in their lineup and sound.
One of Nazareth’s most successful albums in the United States was the platinum-certified 1975 hit “Hair of the Dog,” which reached the Top 20 on the charts. Their iconic track “Love Hurts” peaked at No. 7, becoming a radio favorite and later covered by Guns N’ Roses. Manny Charlton, who also sadly passed away in 2022, played a crucial role in producing some of Guns N’ Roses’ earliest demos.
The band’s current lineup now includes guitarist Jimmy Murrison and drummer Lee Agnew, both of whom joined in the ’90s. Their recent albums, “Tattooed on My Brain” in 2018 and “Surviving the Law” in 2022, were both well-received and made it to the Top 10 on the UK rock charts. Meanwhile, Carl Sentence has already lined up a series of solo dates for 2026, indicating that he is moving forward with his music career.
As Nazareth embarks on this new chapter with Gianni Pontillo as their frontman, fans can look forward to experiencing the band’s revitalized sound and energy on stage. The legacy of Nazareth, with its hard-hitting rock anthems and powerful vocals, continues to resonate with audiences worldwide, ensuring that their music will live on for years to come.