Erik Grönwall, the former Skid Row singer, reflected on his year with a ‘F—k You’ attitude in a recent Instagram post.
He shared a conversation where he asked himself if 2024 was a successful year. His response was, “Define success.” When asked if he lived according to his values, he replied, “I did. I kept my ‘f*ck you perspective’ on things most of the time.”
He continued to discuss the year with other questions: When asked if he prioritized his health, he said, “Yes. I made some tough but necessary decisions for my well-being,” referring to his departure from Skid Row. About waking up every day doing something he loves, he answered, “Absolutely. Singing has been part of my daily life.”
He was asked if he treated people with respect, to which he responded, “Yes, to those who earned it.” When asked if he stayed optimistic, he said, “I sure did. Perspective is the key to happiness.” He confirmed that he made time for family and friends, stating, “Yes, I made time for the people who matter.”
Erik added, “Were you loyal to those you care about?” with a firm “Without a doubt.” When asked if he managed to silence his ego when necessary, he replied, “I’d like to think so. It’s a work in progress.” In conclusion, when asked if 2024 was a successful year, he agreed, saying, “You know what? I agree.”
He shared his final thoughts on success: “Success is about figuring out what your values are and living and dying by those values. You know who you are and what you want, don’t let anyone ever take that away from you. Happy New Year! Thanks for doing this journey with me.”
The biggest change in Grönwall’s career in 2024 was his departure from Skid Row. After completing delayed shows in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, Skid Row announced on March 27, 2024, that Grönwall had left the band due to health issues. Lzzy Hale stepped in as the replacement for upcoming shows.
Grönwall explained, “Yes, I have decided to leave Skid Row. The main reason being that it’s proved difficult to prioritize my health and full recovery as the lead singer of the band. In 2021, I was undergoing treatment against leukemia, and that gave me a superpower called perspective.”
He added, “I love Skid Row. I have nothing but respect for the guys in the band, but I love and respect my health more. I understand that Skid Row is a touring band, but like I told the guys: ‘If I can’t prioritize my health, then I’m not the right guy for the job.'”
Later in September, Erik announced he would join Michael Schenker for the spring 2025 European tour, titled ‘My Years With UFO.’ The tour will begin on April 9, 2025, in the Netherlands.
Photo Credit: Erik Grönwall – Instagram
