While Foreigner was once fronted by Johnny Edwards and Lou Gramm, eventually the spotlight turned to Kelly Hansen. In 2005, Hansen took over lead vocalist duties for the legendary band. And for the past two decades, he traveled the world, showcasing the rich history of Foreigner. But now, at 64 years old, the singer announced he was leaving after the band’s 2025 summer tour. Simply enjoying his final tour with Foreigner, Hansen admitted he hoped to keep it together when taking the stage one last time.
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Discussing his mesmerizing career with Terrie Carr, Hansen didn’t want to focus on the final moments. Although knowing the time would come, he said, “I don’t even wanna think about it, because I know the whole tour’s gonna be emotionally up and down. It’s gonna be a blast and I know there’s gonna be some surprises and it’s gonna be really fun.”
Hansen continued to open up about performing on stage with the band and how emotionally draining each show could be. “When you play a show, at least for me, in order to communicate the music and the songs and the lyrics, you have to open yourself up emotionally to get that out. But what that does is that also opens it for stuff to come in, and so you’re very raw, and that means that any emotion you feel will be right on top, just bubbling right on the top. So hopefully I can hold it together and do it.”
[RELATED: Foreigner Performs a Medley of Greatest Hits on ‘The Voice’ Season 27 Finale]
What The Future Holds For Kelly Hansen
As for the future for Hansen, he seemed content with just leaving the door open. “I don’t have any concrete plans for right now. First thing I’m gonna do is I’m gonna take a break. And then I’m looking forward to where the wind takes me. There are a lot of possibilities.”
Just a few weeks ago, Hansen announced his departure from Foreigner on The Voice. Performing a series of hit songs during the season finale, the singer declared, “Being the voice of FOREIGNER has been one of the greatest honors of my life. 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.”
Currently, the guitarist for the band, after Hansen walks off the stage one last time, lead vocals will transition to current member Luis Maldonado, who showcased his talents during the season finale of The Voice. But for now, Hansen prepared to enjoy one last run with Foreigner.
(Photo by Jason Kempin/Getty Images)
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