Published: May 21, 2025 · 10:06 AM EDT
Hansen joined FOREIGNER in 2005
In a surprise moment that brought both judges and fans to their feet, Kelly Hansen, longtime lead vocalist of legendary rock band FOREIGNER, announced he's stepping down live during a special appearance on NBC's "The Voice". After two decades fronting the band with one of rock's most iconic catalogs, Hansen revealed he will be leaving FOREIGNER at the end of the summer 2025 tour.
In a moving segment that aired nationally, Hansen introduced Luis Maldonado as his official successor — a moment that symbolized both an end and a bold new beginning for the powerhouse group.
"Being the voice of FOREIGNER has been one of the greatest honors of my life," said Hansen. "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 leader and founder Mick Jones had this to say: "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" Mick added. "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.
Hansen joined FOREIGNER in 2005 and played a crucial role in revitalizing the band's live presence. His powerful vocals and magnetic stage presence helped introduce FOREIGNER's timeless hits to a new generation of fans across the globe.
FOREIGNER's tour continues through 2025 and will feature both Hansen and Maldonado on stage in a symbolic handoff. The transition coincides with major milestones for the band, including next year's 50th anniversary of its formation in New York in 1976.
FOREIGNER replaced original singer Lou Gramm with Hansen. Jones, the only remaining original member of FOREIGNER, suffered from some health issues beginning in 2011, eventually resulting in heart surgery in 2012. In February 2024, Jones revealed on social media that he was battling Parkinson's disease, which explained his absence from FOREIGNER's live shows since 2022.
