See Linkin Park Play Explosive "One Step Closer" on 'Conan' in 2001 | Page 2 | Revolver

See Linkin Park Play Explosive "One Step Closer" on 'Conan' in 2001

Nu-metal hopefuls brought infectious 'Hybrid Theory' single to late night

In early 2001, Linkin Park were just cresting over the edge of fame following the huge success of their studio debut Hybrid Theory (a name they'd once performed under), released on October 24th the year before. Singles like "Crawling," "In the End," and "One Step Closer" helped propel the California nu-metal act from relative unknowns to meteoric superstars.

The performance above, taken from The Conan O'Brien Show, sees the fast-rising group fresh-faced and full of energy, especially the then-24-year-old Chester Bennington showing off his preternatural charisma as he moves continuously around the stage alongside co-vocalist Mike Shinoda throughout the band's performance of the infectious rap-rock song. The pair drive the show, whipping the small but enthusiastic crowd into cheers by the end, no doubt winning over many new fans both in the house and watching at home.