Multi-platinum hard rock powerhouse Bad Wolves have officially turned the page on a new chapter. The band has released their first music of 2026, unveiling the crushing new single “Paint It Red” while introducing Sara “Killboy” Skinner as the band’s new lead vocalist.
Released through Better Noise Music, the song is more than just another single—it’s a statement of rebirth.
For longtime fans wondering what Bad Wolves would sound like following last year’s lineup changes, “Paint It Red” delivers an answer with thunderous riffs, massive hooks, and a fearless new voice leading the charge.
A Fresh Start for Bad Wolves
Founding drummer John Boecklin says the search for a new vocalist wasn’t about replacing the past—it was about building the future.
After previously collaborating with Killboy on the 2023 track “It’s You (2 Months),” Boecklin knew she brought something unique to the band.
According to an exclusive interview with Revolver, Skinner was at one of the lowest points of her career after being dropped by her record label and questioning whether her time in music had come to an end. While rebuilding her confidence through open mic performances in Texas, she unexpectedly received a phone call from Boecklin asking if she’d consider joining Bad Wolves full-time.
The opportunity became the spark that reignited both her career and the band’s future.
“Paint It Red” Is About Burning Everything Down
Rather than simply introducing a new singer, “Paint It Red” captures the mindset shared by the entire band.
The track explores the idea of tearing down what’s no longer working and having the courage to rebuild from scratch. That message mirrors the real-life transition Bad Wolves have experienced over the past year.
In the Revolver interview, Skinner explained that she had been ready to walk away from her solo project before joining Bad Wolves, describing the song as a reflection of starting over without fear.
The music video reinforces that message, featuring scenes of demolition and rebuilding that symbolize the band’s next chapter.
Musically, the single blends crushing guitars, pounding rhythms and soaring melodies while allowing Skinner to showcase both powerful clean vocals and aggressive screams—bringing a fresh dynamic to Bad Wolves without abandoning the band’s signature sound.
More New Music Is Already Finished
Fans won’t be waiting long for what’s next.
Skinner confirmed that the band’s fifth studio album has already been completed, with additional singles expected before an official album announcement arrives.
At the same time, she revealed she has no plans to abandon her solo Killboy project, saying that joining Bad Wolves actually reignited her creativity and inspired an entirely new collection of solo material.
Bad Wolves Lineup (2026)
- Sara “Killboy” Skinner — Vocals
- John Boecklin — Drums
- AJ Rebollo — Guitar
- Derek Bolman — Bass
With a revitalized lineup, a powerful new single and an album already waiting in the wings, Bad Wolves appear ready to launch one of the biggest comeback stories in modern hard rock.
I’m Drew, the founder and editor of Front of the Stage. I have a strong love for music and photography, which started at a very young age. There’s just something I love about experiencing live music and capturing memories that will last a lifetime, and that’s how Front of the Stage came to be.
