Kelly Hansen leaves Foreigner after two decades
- Kelly Hansen announced his departure from Foreigner after 20 years during a performance on NBC.
- Luis Maldonado, who has been with the band since 2021, will take over lead vocals after the summer tour.
- Fans are reacting with a mix of sadness and support as Foreigner transitions to a new era.
On May 21, 2025, during a performance at the Season Finale of NBC's The Voice, Kelly Hansen announced his departure from Foreigner, effective after their summer tour. After fronting the band for 20 years, Hansen's announcement caught the audience and fans off guard as he revealed that he would be passing the mic to Luis Maldonado, who has been with the band since 2021. Hansen expressed that being the voice of Foreigner was one of his life’s greatest honors, but he felt it was time for him to move on. Luis Maldonado has previously shared lead vocals with Hansen during tours and is expected to take on a larger role moving forward. Foreigner, known for its significant impact on rock music, has a history that spans over five decades and includes a multitude of iconic hits. The band’s original lead singer, Lou Gramm, departed before Hansen joined in 2005, making his tenure notable but not entirely as the original frontman. Hansen's departure leaves Mick Jones as the only surviving founding member of the band, now operating primarily under new leadership as they look towards the future. This transition comes amidst a backdrop of health challenges faced by several band members over the years, including those who have succumbed to illnesses. The announcement was not only a moment of farewell but a reflection on the band’s storied history and emotional attachments built over the years. Hansen's contributions significantly revitalized the band during his time and brought the group new energy and success. As they approach the end of their tour, the band reflects on their history, from Hansen’s contributions to the musical legacy they created together, guiding the next generation of Foreigner's music with Maldonado stepping into the limelight. This marks a significant change for the band as it looks to maintain its legacy while evolving into its next chapter. Fans have expressed both sadness and support as the news spread across social media and other platforms. The band’s public journey highlights not only their continued success but the challenges and dynamics of maintaining a long-standing musical group, compelling audiences to consider the evolution of a band that has sold over 80 million records worldwide. As Foreigner begins its tour with this new chapter, anticipation surrounds how Luis Maldonado will carry forward the band’s iconic songs and legacy in the rock genre.