Linkin Park’s story is full of details that even longtime fans may have missed. Here are a few facts from the band’s early years.
🔥 1. The band’s original name was Xero.
Before becoming Linkin Park, the band was called Xero. The original lineup featured Mike Shinoda, Brad Delson, Rob Bourdon, Joe Hahn, Dave “Phoenix” Farrell and vocalist Mark Wakefield. After Mark left, the band became Hybrid Theory, and later changed its name to Linkin Park.
🎸 2. Their first publishing deal came after playing Whisky a Go Go.
A performance at the legendary Los Angeles venue helped them land a publishing deal with Zomba Music Publishing, thanks to A&R representative Jeff Blue.
🎵 3. Phoenix didn’t record the bass on the Hybrid Theory EP.
The bass was recorded by Kyle Christner because Phoenix was touring with Tasty Snax at the time. Phoenix later returned and contributed to the songwriting for Hybrid Theory.
❄️ 4. “My December” was recorded in Nashville.
One of the band’s most emotional songs wasn’t recorded in California. It was recorded in Nashville, Tennessee during the Hybrid Theory sessions.
🤘 5. “One Step Closer” was born after weeks of frustration.
The band had spent more than two weeks trying to finish “Runaway.” They decided to take a break, started writing something completely different, and that song became “One Step Closer.”
Which fact surprised you the most?
