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HARD rock legends Nazareth have changed singers heading into 2026, with Swiss-based Gianni Pontillo replacing Carl Sentance.

Given their name, the announcement being made just before Christmas by the Scottish veterans may not be coincidental. Formed in 1968, they are most famous for songs like “Hair Of The Dog” and “Love Hurts”.

Their iconic singer Dan McCafferty died in 2022 but left the band seven years earlier, to be replaced by Sentance.

Founding bassist Pete Agnew said in a statement: “Carl Sentance and Nazareth have come to a parting of the ways, and he is no longer with the band.

“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.

“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.”

Pontillo, 55, was previously in German band Victory.

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Steve Mascord

Author Steve Mascord

Steve came up with the name of Hot Metal magazine in 1989 and worked for the magazine in its early years. He is HM's editor and proprietor in 2022.

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