The rock world lost Chester Bennington on July 20, 2017. His tragic death by suicide sparked important conversations about mental health, helping to break the stigma and raise awareness of warning signs in those around us. More than anything, we remember Bennington for his incredible talent. Since 2000, he has been one of the standout voices in rock music.
In honor of his life and career, let’s take a look at Chester Bennington’s vocal range, which showcased both emotional depth and powerful screams. Bennington’s vocal range is classified as A2-F5. This means he could sing from low tenor/baritone notes to higher mezzo-soprano tones. He had a remarkable three-octave range, placing him alongside other rock legends like Chris Cornell, Myles Kennedy, and Corey Taylor.
Bennington’s scream was a defining feature of his style. He understood the importance of his voice and took great care of it. Despite tackling challenging notes, he never needed vocal surgery and was a powerhouse on stage. His screams were always intentional, adding emphasis to his songs. A prime example is “Given Up,” which features an iconic 17-second scream.
But Bennington wasn’t just about power; he could also deliver moving, melodic moments. “Breaking The Habit” shows his ability to switch between screaming and melody effortlessly. One of his most poignant performances is in “One More Light,” the title track from the 2017 Linkin Park album released just two months before his death. After his passing, Linkin Park shared a video for the song, which resonated deeply with fans. Mike Shinoda noted that the song was meant to send love to those grieving, and now it serves as a tribute to Chester’s legacy.
