The Halestorm singer will perform with the band on their previously scheduled tour dates
Skid Row and vocalist Erik Grönwall are going their separate ways. The decision is a joint one that was reach amicably. The group also confirmed that Halestorm singer, guitarist and “longtime friend” Lzzy Hale will be taking over vocal duties for the band’s previously scheduled tour dates this spring.
Check out the full list of shows below.
“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,” the band said in a statement. “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-plus year history, to be announced soon.”
“I got the opportunity to join this incredible band six months after my treatment against leukemia,” Grönwall recalls in a statement. “And one month after that I was on a world tour with Skid fuckin’ 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!”
Lzzy Hale shared her excitement about the gig, and also sent some positive vibes Erik’s way.
“I’m stepping in for a few dates as the lead singer of Skid Row,” she exclaimed. “What an honor to call them my friends and a privilege to be sharing the stage with them! Erik, I wish you all the magic on your next adventure. Now, which leather pants to wear?!”
Back in 2011, Halestorm released an EP of cover songs, ReAniMate: The CoVeRs eP. Included in the effort was a version of Skid Row’s hallmark song, “Slave to the Grind.” To get a feel for what Skid Row’s upcoming live shows will sound like, stream Halestorm’s “Slave to the Grind” below, as well as a live version from the ShipRocked Cruise in 2020.
After her stint with Skid Row, Lzzy and Halestorm are hitting the road with I Prevail on a co-headlining tour. The trek kicks off on July 9 in Raleigh, North Carolina at the Coastal Credit Union Music Park and runs through August 17 in Las Vegas, Nevada at the Bakkt Theater inside Planet Hollywood Casino & Resort. Hollywood Undead and Fit For A King will serve as special guests.
“Freaks, we are so proud to announce that we are joining forces with I Prevail,” Lzzy said. “This isn’t your typical summer tour. This is two worlds colliding under one haven for our collective armies. And bringing you a show unlike any we’ve done before! We have a lot of surprises in store, so get your tickets now for an experience none of us will forget!”
May 17 – Carterville, IL – Walker’s Bluff Casino Resort
May 18 – Riverside, IA – Riverside Casino & Golf Resort
May 31 – Reno, NV – Nugget Casino Resort
June 1 – Sacramento, CA – Hard Rock Live Sacramento