Asking Alexandria is facing heavy criticism from longtime fans following what many are calling one of the band’s worst live performances. The controversy erupted after their recent set at a Warped Tour stop, where frontman Danny Worsnop appeared to mumble lyrics, and noticeable backing tracks were used for his screams, leaving fans disappointed and frustrated.
While the band has remained silent on the backlash, one former member has decided to speak up — Denis Stoff, the band’s ex-frontman.
Stoff, known for fronting Asking Alexandria on the 2015 release, The Black, took to Instagram over the weekend to share his unfiltered thoughts. Stoff’s time with the band marked a return to their heavier roots, which many fans still praise today. Though his stint was short-lived, the Ukrainian singer made a lasting impact, building a loyal fanbase from his early YouTube cover days to his time with Asking Alexandria.
In his Instagram post, Stoff didn’t hold back.
“I’ve seen the videos, I laughed my tits off, and I loved it” he said after opening his post thanking fans for support. “This is what they have always sounded like live since the beginning of their career; I was rolling on the floor laughing years ago when Danny [Worsnop] said I was performing to his backing tracks, which was an awful and 100% fake statement.” Stoff wrote.
Stoff further pointed out that during the Warped Tour performance in question, it was clear that the band relied heavily on backing tracks, especially for Worsnop’s screams. Stoff also shared comparisons between his live performances and Worsnop’s, though the content was only visible through his Instagram stories and is no longer available.
Beyond criticizing the live performance, Stoff revealed why he would never consider rejoining Asking Alexandria — unpaid royalties.
According to Stoff, he is still owed $5 million in royalties from The Black, including revenue from album sales, streams, show tickets, and merchandise.
“I have sent countless email requests regarding this situation to the band and their representatives, which have been ignored for nearly 9 years,” Stoff writes. “To say the least, back in 2015-2016, I was misled into believing that the business was transparent and that I would receive all of my royalties in full and on time,” he concludes.
In an interview with Worsnop last year, he revealed to us at Soundlink Magazine that he was not officially a member of Asking Alexandria but rather a contractor who is hired to perform the shows. You can watch that HERE.
