Foreigner’s Kelly Hansen Drops Surprise Exit News Live On ‘The Voice’

Foreigner frontman Kelly Hansen announced he is stepping down from the role during the band’s performance on The Voice. The Rock & Roll Hall of Fame band also took the opportunity to announce guitarist Luis Maldonado will handle lead vocals moving forward.

Hansen has fronted Foreigner since 2005. He is set to step down following the band’s 2025 Summer Tour.

“Being the voice of Foreigner has been one of the greatest honors of my life,” Hansen stated. “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.”

Foreigner founder Mick Jones shared his thoughts:

“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 and create a brand-new Foreigner, and the magic was still there. I was especially fortunate in the choice of lead singer. Kelly Hansen is one of the best front men in our business and over the last twenty years he has breathed new life into our songs. His boundless energy and flawless talent has helped us climb the mountain and set up the opportunity for Foreigner vocalist and guitarist, Luis Maldonado, to bring us home. I wish Kelly great happiness in his next endeavors after our summer tour, and I look forward to welcoming Luis to his new position. Luis was my choice as a guitarist and he has already shown us what he can do on lead vocals by fronting the band in South America to incredible reviews. He will soon lead the charge that will carry us forward to new heights.”

“This music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember,” Maldonado added. “I’m ready to honor Foreigner’s legacy and bring my heart to every performance.”

Watch Hansen pass the torch to Maldonado on The Voice during a medley of the band’s hits:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FlTIrVCMg_Q

Find out where to see Hansen front Foreigner one last time below.