Rock legends Nazareth just dropped major news that’s sending shockwaves through the hard rock community.
After nearly a decade with vocalist Carl Sentance, the iconic Scottish band has welcomed a new frontman to their lineup.
Founding bassist Pete Agnew made the announcement Sunday, introducing fans to Gianni Pontillo as Nazareth prepares for what promises to be one of their biggest years yet.
The timing couldn’t be more significant, as the band gears up for an extensive 2026 tour that was previously billed as their farewell run.
A New Voice for a Legendary Sound
Pete Agnew didn’t mince words when revealing the lineup change to fans.
Carl Sentance and Nazareth have come to a parting of the ways, and he is no longer with the band.
Sentance had fronted the band since 2015, completing their most recent tour dates in Berlin, Germany, on December 17, 2025. No specific reason was provided for the split, leaving fans speculating about what led to the unexpected change.
But Agnew quickly shifted focus to the band’s exciting future with their new vocalist.
We would like to introduce you now to our new lead singer, Gianni Pontillo. Those who have seen and heard Gianni will already know what an incredible voice he has, and those of you who haven’t are in for a wonderful surprise when you come to see us in 2026.
Who Is Gianni Pontillo?
Pontillo isn’t exactly new to the hard rock scene. The powerhouse vocalist has been leading German hard rock band Victory since 2019, earning respect in European rock circles.
His resume includes impressive work with multiple projects:
- Pure Inc.
- The Order
- Souls Revival
- Pontillo & The Vintage Crew
- Rock Circus and This Is Rock productions by Das Zelt
Agnew expressed genuine enthusiasm about what Pontillo brings to Nazareth’s storied legacy.
Next year is going to be one of the busiest in Nazareth’s history, so there is a good chance to see the new lineup, and we can’t wait to introduce you to this man’s amazing talent. See you in rock.
Nazareth’s Enduring Legacy
Co-founded by Agnew back in 1968, Nazareth became synonymous with hard-hitting rock anthems that defined generations. Their catalog of hits reads like a greatest hits compilation of classic rock radio:
- “Love Hurts” – their breakthrough ballad that became a worldwide smash
- “Hair of the Dog” – an aggressive anthem still played at sporting events today
- “This Flight Tonight”
- “Dream On”
- “Where Are You Now”
The original lineup featured singer Dan McCafferty, guitarist Manny Charlton, and drummer Darrell Sweet. Tragically, all three have passed away, making Agnew the last remaining founding member.
At nearly 80 years old, Pete Agnew continues leading the charge with remarkable dedication to keeping Nazareth’s music alive.
Current Lineup and Recent Work
Today’s Nazareth features a mix of veteran talent and family legacy. The current roster includes:
- Pete Agnew – bass, founding member
- Jimmy Murrison – guitar
- Lee Agnew – drums (Pete’s son)
- Gianni Pontillo – lead vocals
Remarkably, Nazareth hasn’t just been touring on nostalgia. They’ve consistently released new material, with their most recent album “Surviving the Law” dropping in 2022 featuring Sentance on vocals.
What’s Next for Both Artists
Nazareth’s Massive 2026 Tour
The band has confirmed U.S. tour dates that will showcase Pontillo’s debut with Nazareth:
- May 2 – Family Arena, Saint Charles, Missouri
- May 8 – Treasure Island Resort & Casino, Welch, Minnesota
Both shows will feature fellow rock legends Foghat, creating double-bill events that promise to be can’t-miss experiences for classic rock fans.
Carl Sentance’s New Chapter
The 64-year-old vocalist hasn’t publicly addressed the Nazareth split, but he’s clearly not slowing down. He’s already scheduled a dozen solo concerts throughout 2026, continuing work he began with his 2024 solo album “Silent Angels.”
Even more intriguing, Sentance has formed Lords of NWOBHM (New Wave Of British Heavy Metal), a supergroup featuring members from iconic bands including Praying Mantis, Diamond Head, Raven, Tank, and Persian Risk.
Sentance explained his vision for the ambitious project:
With the ever growing interest and respect around the world for the rock music genre known as the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal means there’s never been a better time to celebrate the music of those pioneering bands from the era. We have succeeded in bringing together a group of musicians that were key members of some of the biggest bands of that time to faithfully perform many of those classic songs that are now a major part of rock music history.
What This Means for Fans
For longtime Nazareth devotees, this transition presents both uncertainty and excitement. Sentance served the band admirably for ten years, but change often breathes new life into veteran acts.
Pontillo’s extensive experience and Agnew’s glowing endorsement suggest fans might witness something special when they hit stages in 2026.
With nearly six decades of history behind them, Nazareth continues proving that rock and roll truly never dies. It just finds new voices to carry the torch forward.