Skid Row bassist Rachel Bolan has shared a candid and humorous update on the band’s search for a new vocalist. While they are carefully vetting candidates, they have also encountered some hilariously unqualified hopefuls along the way.
In a recent interview, Bolan explained the band’s methodical approach to finding the right frontman. “We are taking our time because we have the luxury of that right now,” Bolan said. “We’re not in the middle of making a record. We don’t have a tour booked. We are looking closer at a few people, and you know, we’re going to take our time and get in a room.”
The bassist emphasized that the selection process involves much more than just musical ability. “There’s so much involved other than just, oh, cool. They’d be great for the band. There’s the hang there. There’s all the business behind everything,” Bolan explained. “You need someone with experience who knows what it’s like to be out on the road. They need to understand that sometimes it’s not great, regardless of which band you’re in.”
Bolan also didn’t shy away from discussing some of the more questionable submissions the band has received. “There’s been some terrible audition videos that make me think, ‘Wow. Okay. All right,'” he said with a laugh. “Someone told them that they could sing. You got to give it to them though—they’re auditioning and putting themselves out there for a national act. They’re going to be under a lot of scrutiny online, and I respect that, man. They’ll do something one day. It might not be with this band, but with that kind of drive and confidence, that’s a big part of it.”
The band’s search for a new vocalist comes after a significant period of transition. Skid Row parted ways with vocalist Erik Grönwall in 2024, prompting the band to launch a formal audition process in February 2026. This strategic timing allowed the band to take a measured approach rather than rushing into a decision during an active recording or touring cycle.
The band’s vocalist search has taken on a more structured approach through an unexpected partnership. Skid Row partnered with Sweetwater, a major online music retailer, to launch a worldwide audition call in February 2026. This collaboration invites singers from around the globe to audition for the opportunity to front one of rock’s most enduring and respected acts.
The involvement of industry professionals has also shaped the selection process. Bassist Bolan, vocalist Snake (who serves as a co-writer), the band’s management, and producer Nick Raskulinecz are collectively reviewing candidates. This multi-faceted approach ensures that potential vocalists are evaluated not only on their singing ability but also on their compatibility with the band’s creative vision and work ethic.
Despite the influx of submissions—some more serious than others—Skid Row has already begun to narrow its focus. The band is “pretty focused in on a couple of guys” in their ongoing search, suggesting that they have identified several strong candidates who meet their criteria. Bolan’s comments about having “a few people on our radar” align with this more targeted phase of the selection process.
