Skid Row has named Justin Sargent as its new lead singer, ending a global search that followed more than two years away from the stage. The announcement arrives as the New Jersey hard rock band marks its 40th anniversary, with founding members Rachel Bolan, Dave “Snake” Sabo, and Scotti Hill still at the core alongside longtime drummer Rob Hammersmith.
The search, which included a partnership with instrument retailer Sweetwater, drew heavy interest from vocalists worldwide. After reviewing submissions and conducting extensive auditions, rehearsals, and time spent together, the band settled on Sargent. Band members describe an immediate fit. Bolan said it felt as if Sargent had been part of the group from the start: “He was one of us. A lifer. Then he sang with so much power and conviction, it blew me away.” Sabo echoed the sentiment, noting that once Sargent walked in, the decision was clear based on his voice, attitude, and demeanor.
Sargent, a Broadway veteran whose credits include the lead role of Drew in Rock of Ages, a stint as Peter Parker/Spider-Man in Spider-Man: Turn Off the Dark, and work in Bonnie & Clyde, brings both theatrical stage presence and rock experience. He has also performed Queen material with symphony orchestras and appeared in productions such as Jesus Christ Superstar Live. In his statement, he expressed surprise and respect for the opportunity: “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. The chemistry and energy we’ve found together over the past several months has been amazing.” He added that while he respects the band’s catalog, he is focused on what comes next and connecting with fans.
In a fitting detail for a band formed in New Jersey, the extensive worldwide hunt ultimately led the group to a vocalist tied to the state. Sargent’s selection closes a chapter that began after previous singer Erik Grönwall stepped away in 2024 to prioritize his health. Skid Row has cycled through several frontmen over the decades since the classic Sebastian Bach era, including Johnny Solinger, Tony Harnell, and ZP Theart, while maintaining a consistent touring presence rooted in its late-’80s and early-’90s hits.
To introduce the new lineup, the band released a cover of The Who’s “Won’t Get Fooled Again,” produced by Nick Raskulinecz, who also worked on the group’s 2022 album The Gang’s All Here. The track is accompanied by a music video directed by Dale “Rage” Resteghini, known for work with acts including Five Finger Death Punch, Guns N’ Roses, and Alter Bridge. Scotti Hill described the original as a generational anthem that always warrants turning up the volume. Hammersmith framed the choice as a statement of intent: standing on the shoulders of rock giants to launch an unapologetic new phase.
The single becomes available to stream and download on October 30, 2026. A limited hand-signed 7-inch vinyl edition is capped at 500 copies worldwide, with pre-orders open. The release is positioned as both an introduction to Sargent and a declaration that the band’s core rock spirit remains intact.
Skid Row has also announced its first 2027 concert dates with Sargent, with more expected. The initial run includes:
- 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
With a new frontman in place, fresh recorded material, and a return to the road on the horizon, Skid Row is positioning the move as the start of a renewed chapter rather than a simple replacement. The combination of established songwriting and live chemistry from the longtime members with Sargent’s vocal power and stage background gives the band a clear path back to audiences as it enters its fifth decade.
