QUEENSRŸCHE Vocalist TODD LA TORRE – "Wishing TONY HARNELL Much Success And Happiness Joining SKID ROW"

After 14 years of touring and four releases, Skid Row and singer Johnny Solinger recently parted ways. Queensrÿche vocalist Todd La Torre has voiced his support for Harnell online with the following message:

“Cheers to my friend Tony Harnell and wishing him much success and happiness joining Skid Row. Embrace the positivity, do what you do best, and sending you and the rest of the band my personal cheers and support. Keep on keepin’ on!”

Skid Row is ready to introduce their new frontman to the people. Bassist Rachel Bolan, guitarists Dave “Snake” Sabo and Scotti Hill, and drummer Rob Hammersmith, will begin touring next month with Harnell. Confirmed shows are as listed:

May
22 – Living Sky Casino – Swift Current, SK
23 – Dakota Dunes Casino – Saskatoon, SK
27 – Marquee Theatre – Tempe, AZ
28 – Canyon Club – Agoura Hills, CA
30 – The Joint at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino – Las Vegas, NV

June
12 – Little River Casino – Manistee, MI
13 – Harley Fest – Sterling Heights, MI
19 – Krautfest – Franksville, WI
27 – Greely Stampede – Greeley, CO

July
18 – Deerfoot Inn & Casino – Calgary, AB
24 – The Centre At Moncton Casino – Moncton, NB
31 – Skogsröjet Festival – Rejmyre, Sweden

August
1 – Helgeafestivalen 2015 – Knislinge, Sweden
15 – Northwoods Rock Rally – Glen Flora, WI

September
4 – Hard Rock Hotel – Las Vegas, NV
5 – Hard Rock Café Lake Tahoe – Stateline, NV

October
24 – Motofiesta – Leon, Mexico

Check out Skid Row’s recently recorded version of “18 & Life” with Tony Harnell, available for free via the band’s official website, Facebook page, or the audio player below.

In a special episode of One On One With Mitch Lafon Skid Row co-founder and bassist Rachel Bolan discusses the lead singer change. He explains the decision, the hiring of Tony Harnell, the possibility of a live album and more.

Speaking about Johnny Solinger, Bolan states: “At certain times, you get a feeling that someone isn’t putting 100 percent into things and Skid Row is very important to the rest of us. We wanted to carry on with quality performances.”

On Solinger’s split with Skid Row, co-founding member and guitarist Snake Sabo stated, “We had a lot of great times together and created a lot of great music. We wish him nothing but the best.”

“Sometimes things just end. People go in different directions and grow apart and you have to make a decision. He will always be our brother,” adds Rachel Bolan.

The vacancy for a new frontman has been filled by powerhouse vocalist Tony Harnell. This news comes hot on the heels of his departure from Norway based band, TNT. “Tony’s experience, power and undeniable range made our decision an easy one,” commented guitarist Scotti Hill. Drummer Rob Hammersmith added, “I believe this will be a great year for Skid Row. I’m looking forward for things to come.”

When asked about joining forces with Skid Row, Harnell said, “I’m so excited and honored to be a part of such a great band with an amazing legacy and legions of faithful fans! The guys and I have known each other for many years and this is such a natural fit. I look forward to getting out there and playing live together and being a part of making new music and creating our future together. It’s time to rock!”

The band will head into the studio to record the third chapter of the United World Rebellion trilogy this summer. They will also hit the road for another world tour in support.