Skid Row have officially announced Justin Sargent as their new lead singer, opening a new chapter for the band as they celebrate their 40th anniversary. The news comes after more than two years away from the stage and an extensive global search for a new frontman.
In a fitting twist, after looking all around the world, the band found their new voice right where it all began, in their home state of New Jersey.
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To mark the announcement, Skid Row have also shared a brand new recording of The Who’s classic anthem “Won’t Get Fooled Again”, along with an official music video. The song will be available to stream and download on October 30, 2026, and a limited, hand-signed 7″ single is available to pre-order now. The band have also confirmed their first run of live dates with Sargent for 2027.
Sargent first caught the band’s attention last year. His vocals, stage presence and natural connection to the music stood out straight away, and what followed were months of conversations, rehearsals and time spent together before the band were sure they had found the right person.
Bassist Rachel Bolan said: “Honestly, for me, it felt like he had been here from the beginning as soon as he walked in the room. He was one of us. A lifer. Then he sang with so much power and conviction, it blew me away.”
Guitarist Snake Sabo added: “We were so fortunate to receive so many audition submissions from singers wanting to front the band. We wanna thank everyone for their time and effort. But I think that the moment Justin walked in the door we all kind of knew he was the guy. Everything about him; his voice, his attitude, his demeanor, it all just fit. We can’t wait to hit the ground running and get back to doing what we love to do.”
Sargent said: “I’ve been singing Skid Row songs for years, but never imagined I’d actually be joining the band! It’s an incredible honor to be part of something with such a legendary history. I have tremendous respect for the band’s legacy, but I’m even more excited about what lies ahead. I can’t wait to get out there, connect with the fans, and give them everything I’ve got.”
The search attracted interest from singers across the globe. Earlier this year, Skid Row teamed up with music retailer Sweetwater to extend the search further and reach the wider music community. The band have thanked everyone who sent in performances and supported them along the way.
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The new version of “Won’t Get Fooled Again” acts as both an introduction to Sargent and a statement of intent as the band look to the future. It was produced and recorded by Grammy Award winning producer Nick Raskulinecz, known for his work with Foo Fighters, Rush, Halestorm and Alice In Chains. The session reunites Skid Row with the producer behind their 2022 studio album, The Gang’s All Here.
Originally released by The Who on their 1971 album Who’s Next, the song is one of rock’s best known anthems, and Skid Row’s take pays tribute to the original while adding their own hard rock edge.
Guitarist Scotti Hill said: “‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is one of those songs that no matter how many times you hear it on the radio you always turn it up and listen. Anything by The Who is top shelf in my book, but ‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ is an anthem of generations.”
Drummer Rob Hammersmith said: “‘Won’t Get Fooled Again’ isn’t just about making noise – it’s about setting a standard and making a statement: two rock ‘n’ roll elements The Who helped write the book on. Standing on the shoulders of these giants is the ultimate launchpad to signal a loud, unapologetic new era for us!”
The music video was directed by filmmaker Dale “Rage” Resteghini, whose previous credits include Five Finger Death Punch, Guns N’ Roses and Alter Bridge. It showcases the energy and chemistry of the band’s new lineup.
“Won’t Get Fooled Again” will also be released as a limited, hand-signed 7″ single, strictly limited to 500 copies worldwide. Pre-orders start today, and the single can be pre-ordered and pre-saved here.
With a new frontman and new music in place, Skid Row are ready to return to the stage. The band have announced their first concert dates featuring Sargent, with more shows to be announced soon. The run includes appearances at Welcome To Rockville in Daytona Beach and Sonic Temple in Columbus.
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Skid Row live 2027:
March 5 Rancho Mirage, CA, The Show at Agua Caliente
March 20 New Buffalo, MI, Four Winds Casino
April 2 Kansas City, MO, VooDoo Lounge at Harrah’s
April 3 Welch, MN, Island Event Center
April 9 Mashantucket, CT, Foxwoods
April 10 Atlantic City, NJ, Borgata
April 16 Wheatland, CA, Hard Rock Live
April 17 Reno, NV, Silver Legacy Casino
April 18 Shelton, WA, Little Creek Casino
April 23 Quapaw, OK, Downstream Casino
April 24 Grant, OK, Choctaw Casino
May 9 Daytona Beach, FL, Welcome To Rockville
May 14 Columbus, OH, Sonic Temple
May 29 Niagara Falls, ON, OLG Stage at Fallsview Casino
September 25 French Lick, IN, French Lick Resort
Formed in New Jersey in 1986, Skid Row rose to fame with their self-titled 1989 debut album, which featured hits including “18 And Life” and “I Remember You”. Its follow-up, Slave To The Grind, became the first hard rock album to enter the Billboard 200 at number one in 1991. Sargent joins Bolan, Sabo, Hill and Hammersmith as the band begin their fifth decade.
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