Foreigner: Lead Singer Kelly Hansen Announces Departure, Luis Maldonado to Take Over
Kelly Hansen, lead vocalist of the rock band “Foreigner,” is leaving the band. He announced his departure during a live performance on the finale of “The Voice.” After two decades fronting the band with one of rock’s most iconic catalogs, Hansen revealed he will be leaving Foreigner at the end of the Summer 2025 tour. During the performance, Hansen introduced Luis Maldonado as his official successor — a moment that symbolized both an end and a bold new beginning for the powerhouse group.
Hansen joined the band in 2005 and played a crucial role in revitalizing the band’s live presence. His powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence helped introduce Foreigner’s timeless hits to a new generation of fans across the globe.
Foreigner’s tour continues through 2025 and will feature both Hansen and Maldonado on stage in a symbolic handoff. The transition coincides with major milestones for the band, including next year’s 50th anniversary of its formation in New York in 1976.
Before Luis joined Foreigner, he was best known as the guitarist for Train and for his work with Lisa Marie Presley. He now steps into the spotlight as Foreigner’s new lead singer. Maldonado brings a rich blend of vocal power, stage charisma, and musical versatility that makes him a natural fit to lead the next chapter of the band’s journey.
“This music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” said Maldonado. “I’m ready to honor Foreigner’s legacy and bring my heart to every performance.”
Some of the bands biggest hits include some of rock and roll’s most enduring anthems including “Juke Box Hero,” “Cold As Ice,” “Hot Blooded,” “Waiting For A Girl Like You,” “Feels Like The First Time,” and “Urgent.” , “I Want To Know What Love Is” hit #1 on Spodify’s Billions Club.
The band was inducted to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame last year and is still rocking after 50 years in the business. For more information on Foreigner, please visit www.foreigneronline.com