In a dramatic and emotional twist broadcast live on NBC’s The Voice, Kelly Hansen, lead vocalist of classic rock giants FOREIGNER, revealed he will be stepping down after the band’s Summer 2025 tour. The announcement shocked fans and judges alike, marking the end of a two-decade era.

What made the moment even more powerful was Hansen introducing his successor right on air: FOREIGNER guitarist Luis Maldonado will take over as the band’s new lead vocalist.

“Being the voice of FOREIGNER has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hansen said. “But it’s time to pass the mic. Luis has the voice, the energy, and the soul to carry these songs into the future. I couldn’t be prouder to hand this off to him.”

A Legacy Handed Down

FOREIGNER founder Mick Jones praised Hansen’s legacy and expressed full confidence in Maldonado’s future leadership.

“In 1976, my goal was to assemble the finest group of musicians I could find. Results have shown that it worked! About thirty years later, Jason Bonham encouraged me to do it all over again… Kelly Hansen is one of the best front men in our business… I look forward to welcoming Luis to his new position.”

Maldonado has already proven himself on stage, having fronted FOREIGNER during their South American dates to critical acclaim. Best known previously for his work with Train and Lisa Marie Presley, Maldonado now steps into a defining role in rock history.

“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.”

The Road Ahead: Final Tour with Both Singers

FOREIGNER’s 2025 tour will now serve as a symbolic “passing of the torch,” featuring both Hansen and Maldonado performing together. This rare dual-frontman format is expected to create unforgettable moments for fans.

The timing also coincides with a major milestone: the 50th anniversary of FOREIGNER’s founding in New York in 1976. The band remains a fixture on the charts nearly five decades in, with classics like:

• “Juke Box Hero”
• “Cold As Ice”
• “Hot Blooded”
• “I Want To Know What Love Is” (Spotify Billions Club)

With over 15 million weekly streams and Billboard “Top 200” album success, FOREIGNER’s influence shows no signs of fading.

As Kelly Hansen exits the spotlight and Luis Maldonado steps into it, FOREIGNER enters a new era — one steeped in legacy, yet charged with fresh energy.