Skid Row and Erik Grönwall Part Ways, Lzzy Hale to Fill-In for Upcoming Shows
Two years after being recruited as the new lead singer for Skid Row, Swedish vocalist Erik Grönwall is stepping down for health reasons. With a few handful of shows left in their itinerary, the band’s announced that Halestorm vocalist Lzzy Hale will take up the mic instead.
Looking back on his time with the band, Grönwall said in a prepared statement that he was happy that he was able to be a part of Skid Row for as long as he was. And while his health issues are forcing him to walk away from the gig, he said he didn’t feel he could rise up to the rigors of live shows and touring while also dealing with his condition.
“I got the opportunity to join this incredible band 6 months after my treatment against leukemia. And one month after that I was on a world tour with Skid f**** Row. Wow! It was a dream come true. However, it proved challenging touring the world with an impaired immune system, which is a result of my bone marrow transplant. I respect and understand that Skid Row is a touring band but since I can’t prioritize my health being in the band, I have decided that it’s better for me to step aside.
“I love Skid Row, I have nothing but respect for the guys in the band but I love and respect my health more. I’m getting stronger and healthier every day but after consulting my doctor I need to allow myself more time to recover, which I can’t do as the lead singer of Skid Row. That’s why I have reached the tough decision to move on. I want to thank the guys for this incredible opportunity. And I want to thank all the Skid Row fans who accepted me as the lead singer of this iconic band. Health first!”
According to a statement posted to Skid Row’s official social media accounts, the band and Grönwall ended things on amicable terms. The vocalist had undergone leukemia treatment just months before he was hired to front the classic glam metal band from New Jersey. Sadly, the vocalist’s health needs ultimately determined that he could no longer meet the band’s needs.
“Today Skid Row and Erik Grönwall jointly announce that Erik will step down as the vocalist for Skid Row. Longtime friend Lzzy Hale of Halestorm will be taking over vocal duties for the upcoming scheduled four concerts.
“Erik has decided that the travel and rigors of the road is not conducive to his overall health and recovery, and wants to focus on a lifestyle that is more amenable for his well-being, healing and family.
“Skid Row is proud of what they have created and accomplished with Erik over the past two years and we wish nothing but the best to him and his health. To celebrate the last two years the band will be releasing a live album that perfectly captures this moment of time in the band’s 35+ year history, to be announced soon.”
As it stands, the band only has four live dates scheduled for 2024. Each of those shows will now feature Hale on vocals. If that’s something you’d like to see, be sure to check out the dates below and get your tickets today.
5/17 – Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort – Carterville, IL [Tickets]
5/18 – Riverside Casino & Golf Resort – Riverside, IA [Tickets]
5/31 – Nugget Casino Resort – Sparks, NV [Tickets]
6/1 – Hard Rock Live Sacramento – Wheatland, CA [Tickets]
