Mike Shinoda

Linkin Park co-founder Mike Shinoda adds hip-hop flair to his many musical endeavors, between his coolheaded vocal delivery and adventurous production style. Born in 1977, the Panorama City, CA, native grew up listening to rap icons (Boogie Down Productions, Public Enemy, N.W.A) and rock bands (Nine Inch Nails, Deftones). As a musician, he first rose to prominence in the early 2000s when LINKIN PARK broke out as part of the nu-metal movement. Shinoda’s fluid rap delivery on hits such as “In the End” served as a counterpart to Chester Bennington’s raspier vocals, while his pristine production and emotional songwriting gave the group’s music depth. Outside of LINKIN PARK, he has delved deeper into hip-hop with the side project Fort Minor and has collaborated on tracks with electronic artists like The X-Ecutioners, Steve Aoki, and Martin Garrix. Even Shinoda’s rock-oriented singles, like the punkish 2023 solo cut “Already Over,” boast vocal grooves that nod to his hip-hop roots.