The news that drummer Rob Bourdon will not be rejoining Linkin Park probably surprised some fans, even if most were guessing who would replace Chester Bennington as co-vocalist. Mike Shinoda discussed Bourdon’s absence from their reunion and how Colin Brittain was chosen to replace the seasoned stickman in an interview with Billboard.

Shinoda claims that following Linkin Park’s break, Bourdon began to disassociate himself from the band’s operations.

“Rob had previously expressed his desire to disassociate himself from the band, which I believe was a few years ago. And we realized that—it was clear already,” Shinoda remarked.

“I know the fans also observed that he was simply showing up less and interacting with people less. He did not attend the Hybrid Theory rerelease or the Papercuts release. That was upsetting for me as a friend, but I also want him to pursue his happiness, and of course, everyone wants the best for him.”

How Linkin Park Attracted Colin Brittain

Since Bourdon was unable to participate, Linkin Park needed to find a replacement in order to make a comeback.

“I had done sessions with Colin — I met him around 2021, when I got an invite to a session with a couple of different writers, and Colin was one of the guys in the room, and I immediately clicked with him,” said Shinoda.