After 20 years with Foreigner, Kelly Hansen performed his final two shows with the band this past weekend on October 10th and 11th at Hard Rock Live in Atlantic City, New Jersey. The 64-year-old singer, who fronted the band for the majority of the shows, bid an emotional farewell to his fans and the band's crew. During the final show, Hansen delivered a heartfelt speech, thanking his friends and family, who had traveled to support him. He also thanked his wife, who he married at 59, and reflected on his 48-49 years in the music industry, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to perform with Foreigner.
Hansen's successor, Luis Maldonado, joined the band in 2021 and filled in on lead vocals during the last Latin American tour. He performed 'Juke Box Hero' as a teaser of what's to come. The band's 13-song setlist was a greatest-hits package, with the Egg Harbor Township High School Choir joining for an encore of 'I Want to Know What Love Is'.
Bassist Jeff Pilson also addressed the audience, reflecting on two decades of performing with Hansen. He emphasized the emotional impact of bidding farewell to a band member who has made a significant difference in the band's success. Foreigner is now gearing up for the post-Hansen era, with singer-actor Geordie Brown taking the lead on their upcoming Canadian tour. After that, original singer Lou Gramm will join the band for a US tour in December, performing select songs alongside Maldonado. Tickets for these shows are available now.
