Nearly two years after parting ways with singer Erik Grönwall, legendary ’80s glam metal band Skid Row is finally seeing real progress in its hunt for a new lead vocalist.
According to bassist Rachel Bolan, the band has narrowed its focus and is feeling confident about the direction of the search as they head deeper into 2026.
In a recent interview on the Rockstrap podcast, Bolan shared that Skid Row now has “a couple of guys on our radar” and plans to move forward with more focused auditions. With help from their management team and longtime collaborator Nick Raskulinecz, the producer behind 2022’s The Gang’s All Here, the band is carefully reviewing potential singers rather than rushing into a decision.
“We’ve auditioned a few people,” Bolan explained, adding that the band wanted to wait for the new year to fully restart the process. Instead of an open call, Skid Row is being selective, taking time to meet candidates in person and see how they truly fit.
Photo by Per Ole Hagen/Redferns
Skid Row New Singer Search Gains Momentum
Bolan described the process as detailed and sometimes blunt. Each possible frontman is discussed by the entire band, weighing not only vocal skill but age, experience and overall readiness for the demands of touring.
“We’re all going through each person saying, ‘Okay, let’s get in a room with this person,’” Bolan said. He noted that some singers are “a little too young,” others “too green,” and some simply not strong enough vocally. For Skid Row, honesty is part of protecting the band’s legacy.
More than anything, personality plays a major role. After decades in the business, Bolan said being a good fit offstage matters just as much as sounding right onstage. The band members want someone who can handle long tours, work well with the group, and enjoy the ride.
That approach seems to be paying off. Bolan shared that the band is excited about the candidates they’re currently considering and hinted that fans could see Skid Row back on the road before the end of the year if everything lines up.
Skid Row’s most recent singer, Erik Grönwall, officially exited the band in March 2024. His departure was amicable and rooted in health concerns following his battle with leukemia. Bolan spoke warmly about Grönwall, calling his time in the band a strong chapter that ended for understandable reasons.
“We had a really good thing going with Erik,” Bolan said. “I think the road was just too much for him with his past health issues.” He added that Grönwall fit in well and was loved by fans, making the split especially disappointing.
Since then, Skid Row has stayed active. The band completed a short run of shows in early 2024, with Lzzy Hale of Halestorm stepping in on vocals for several dates. While those performances helped fulfill prior commitments, the group has been clear that Hale’s role was temporary.
At the same time, rumors of a reunion with original singer Sebastian Bach continue to surface. However, Bolan and guitarist Dave “Snake” Sabo have repeatedly shut down the idea, saying it’s not something the band wants to revisit.
Behind the scenes, creativity hasn’t slowed down. Skid Row has been writing new music, even though distance makes collaboration harder. Bolan also has a major personal milestone on the way: his debut solo album, Gargoyle Of The Garden State, is set for release on June 12. Produced by Raskulinecz, the record features guest appearances from major rock names and shows Bolan exploring new ground as a songwriter and singer.
Still, the heart of Skid Row’s future depends on finding the right voice. The band isn’t rushing, and Bolan says they’re comfortable taking the time needed to get it right. With no immediate tour pressure, they can afford to be patient and selective.
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