Courtney LaPlante is recognized as the lead vocalist of Canadian heavy metal band Spiritbox, bringing a powerful blend of melodic vocals and aggressive screams to modern metal. She previously gained recognition as the lead singer of metalcore band Iwrestledabearonce from 2012 to 2015. Her journey from underground metal scenes to Grammy nominations showcases remarkable artistic evolution and determination in the competitive music industry.
Born February 26, 1989, LaPlante has become a trailblazer for women in metal, inspiring countless aspiring musicians with her versatile vocal abilities. Her work addresses themes of displacement, identity, and emotional turmoil, resonating deeply with fans worldwide. Through her dynamic stage presence and authentic artistry, this Canadian musician continues to redefine boundaries within the heavy music landscape.
LaPlante’s impact extends beyond music into advocacy for gender equality in metal. Her success with Spiritbox has proven that talent and dedication transcend gender barriers in traditionally male-dominated genres. As this female metal vocalist continues to evolve as an artist, her influence on contemporary metal remains undeniable and continues to grow with each release.
Quick Bio
| Category | Details |
| Name | Courtney LaPlante |
| Date of Birth | February 26, 1989 |
| Age | 36 (as of 2025) |
| Birthplace | Bangor, Maine, USA |
| Current Residence | Victoria, British Columbia, Canada |
| Height | 5’6″ (168 cm) |
| Weight | 137 lbs (62 kg, approximate) |
| Eye Color | Blue |
| Hair Color | Blonde |
| Zodiac Sign | Pisces |
| Nationality | American-Canadian |
| Ethnicity | Caucasian |
| Career | Singer, Songwriter |
| Band | Spiritbox (Lead Vocalist) |
| Previous Bands | Iwrestledabearonce, Unicron |
| Net Worth (2025) | Estimated $3-5 million |
| Relationship Status | Married to Mike Stringer (since 2016) |
| Notable Albums | Eternal Blue (2021), Tsunami Sea (2025) |
| Awards | 3x Grammy Nominations, Juno Award Nominee |
Who is Courtney LaPlante?
Courtney LaPlante is an American singer best known as the lead vocalist of Canadian heavy metal band Spiritbox. She has emerged as one of the most distinctive voices in modern metal, seamlessly blending ethereal clean vocals with brutal screams and death growls. Her ability to navigate between contrasting vocal styles has earned her critical acclaim and a devoted global fanbase in the progressive metal scene.
LaPlante first gained success as the lead singer of metalcore band Iwrestledabearonce, recording and performing with them from 2012 until 2015. During this period, she honed her craft and developed the versatile vocal techniques that would later define her work with Spiritbox. Her time with the experimental metalcore band helped establish her reputation within the metal community as a force to be reckoned with.
In 2017, she co-founded Spiritbox alongside her husband, guitarist Mike Stringer, seeking greater creative control and their own artistic identity. The band quickly rose to prominence with their atmospheric, progressive approach to metal, incorporating elements of djent and post-metal. Today, LaPlante stands as a prominent figure in contemporary metal, inspiring a new generation of vocalists and breaking down barriers for women in heavy music.
Early Life and Background
Courtney LaPlante was born February 26, 1989, in Bangor, Maine, as the eldest of six children. Her father worked as a college basketball coach and her mother was a teacher. Growing up in a large family environment, she developed a strong sense of responsibility and leadership that would later serve her well in her musical career and creative partnership with her bandmates.
When Courtney was six, the family relocated to Alabama, where she was raised in the Catholic Church. As a Catholic family in the predominantly Protestant South, they were considered unusual, which led to her eventually switching to the Methodist Church around age 14. This transition exposed her to more rock-oriented music during church services, igniting her passion for performing and singing in front of audiences, which would eventually lead to her career as a metal vocalist.
At age 15, following her parents’ divorce, LaPlante moved with her mother to Victoria, British Columbia, Canada—nearly 2,800 miles from their Alabama home. This major life transition proved pivotal for the young vocalist, as she began singing in local bands as a teenager. The move to Canada’s vibrant music scene provided the perfect environment for her to develop her skills and launch her professional music career in the metal scene.
Personal Life and Relationships
Courtney LaPlante married guitarist Mike Stringer on September 1, 2016, after being engaged since around 2012. The couple’s relationship began when they met during a show between LaPlante’s band Unicron and Stringer’s band Fall in Archaea in Victoria. Their shared passion for music and creative vision formed the foundation of both their personal and professional partnership as bandmates.
For their wedding, the couple asked guests to provide funding for their musical endeavors rather than traditional gifts. Two weeks after their marriage, they began investing their savings into recording songs for what would become Spiritbox. This unconventional approach demonstrated their commitment to their artistic dreams and willingness to sacrifice comfort for creative fulfillment in the music industry.
To support themselves while building Spiritbox, LaPlante initially worked as a waitress while Stringer delivered pizzas, and later they both worked together as data entry clerks. These humble beginnings strengthened their bond and gave them perspective on their eventual success. Their partnership continues to be the creative core of Spiritbox, with the musician couple contributing significantly to the band’s distinctive sound and vision.
Career and Achievement
LaPlante’s musical career began at age 18 when she and her brother Jackson formed the metal band Unicron. The band’s sound evolved from influences like Rage Against the Machine to progressive metalcore. In 2012, when Iwrestledabearonce vocalist Krysta Cameron departed due to pregnancy, LaPlante was recommended by a Warped Tour representative and flew from Canada to perform with them the very next day. Despite knowing few lyrics initially, her performance impressed the band enough to become their permanent vocalist.
After leaving Iwrestledabearonce in 2015, LaPlante and Stringer founded Spiritbox in 2017, releasing their debut album Eternal Blue in September 2021 to widespread critical acclaim. The album hit No. 13 on the Billboard 200 albums chart and generated significant buzz, establishing Spiritbox as a major force in modern metal. Their second album, Tsunami Sea, released in March 2025, further solidified their position in the metal scene and brought additional streaming royalties.
Grammy Nominations
Spiritbox has earned three consecutive Best Metal Performance Grammy nominations: “Jaded” in 2024, “Cellar Door” in 2025, and “Soft Spine” in 2026, making LaPlante a prominent figure at the awards. This recognition from the music industry validates her exceptional vocal technique and the band’s innovative approach to heavy music.
Groundbreaking Collaborations
In April 2025, LaPlante performed with rapper Megan Thee Stallion at Coachella, marking her first live crossover appearance outside metal circles, demonstrating her versatility and mainstream appeal beyond the metal genre. This festival appearance showcased her ability to connect with audiences across different musical landscapes.
Chart Success
Multiple Spiritbox singles have reached Billboard charts, including the breakthrough hit “Holy Roller” which helped establish the band’s commercial viability alongside critical recognition. The success of “Circle With Me” and other tracks has generated substantial album sales and touring revenue for the band.
Industry Recognition
Jake Richardson of Loudwire included her in his list of the “10 Best Clean Singers in Metalcore” in 2023, acknowledging her exceptional melodic vocal abilities. This recognition from music critics and fellow musicians highlights her technical proficiency in both harsh vocals and clean singing.
Advocacy for Women in Metal
LaPlante has become a key advocate for diversity in metal, openly discussing the scrutiny faced by female vocalists and her determination to redefine power through her performances. She continues to inspire young female vocalists pursuing careers in heavy music.
Vocal Style and Technique
LaPlante’s vocal abilities set her apart in the metalcore and progressive metal scenes. Her mastery of multiple vocal techniques allows her to deliver emotionally resonant performances that showcase both aggression and vulnerability. The metal vocalist has become known for seamlessly transitioning between different styles within single songs, creating dynamic listening experiences.
Her clean vocals draw inspiration from diverse sources beyond metal. Credits artists like Doja Cat, H.E.R., SZA, and the Weeknd as influences on her clean vocal phrasing, showcasing her eclectic musical taste. This blend of R&B and pop influences with traditional metal creates Spiritbox’s signature atmospheric sound. Her vocal range extends from haunting melodic singing to brutal death growls, demonstrating the technical skill required to maintain vocal health while performing such demanding material.
The Iwrestledabearonce Era
Before achieving widespread recognition with Spiritbox, LaPlante spent crucial years developing her skills with experimental metalcore band Iwrestledabearonce. This period proved instrumental in shaping her approach to harsh vocals and live performances. The band’s chaotic, genre-blending style pushed her to explore the full spectrum of her vocal capabilities across multiple albums.
During her tenure from 2012 to 2015, she recorded albums that showcased her ability to switch between melodic singing and aggressive screaming seamlessly. The experience gained during Warped Tour performances and extensive touring prepared her for the demands of leading her own band. When Iwrestledabearonce announced their disbandment in 2016, LaPlante was ready to create something entirely new with her creative partner Mike Stringer, setting the stage for Spiritbox’s formation.
Net Worth Overview
Courtney LaPlante’s net worth is estimated to be between $3 million and $5 million as of 2025, reflecting her success with Spiritbox and various collaborations. This substantial wealth has been accumulated through multiple revenue streams developed over her years in the music industry. Her financial success represents not just monetary achievement but validation of her artistic vision and business acumen.
The majority of LaPlante’s wealth stems from Spiritbox’s commercial success, including album sales, streaming royalties, and extensive touring revenue. The upcoming release of Tsunami Sea was expected to further boost her fortune. Her strategic approach to building the band through online promotion before extensive touring proved financially savvy, creating sustainable income streams through merchandise sales and live performances.
LaPlante’s net worth continues to grow as Spiritbox expands their reach globally and secures high-profile collaborations. Unlike many musicians who struggle financially, she has successfully monetized her talent while maintaining artistic integrity. Her financial stability allows her to focus on creative endeavors without compromising her vision for commercial pressures in the music industry.
Major Sources of Income
LaPlante’s diverse income portfolio ensures financial stability while allowing creative freedom. Her multiple revenue streams create a sustainable career model that many musicians in the metalcore band scene aspire to achieve.
Album Sales and Streaming
Revenue from Spiritbox’s albums Eternal Blue and Tsunami Sea, plus extensive streaming on platforms like Spotify and Apple Music, generates consistent passive income. The band’s popularity on digital platforms continues to grow with each release.
Concert Tours and Live Performances
Headlining tours and festival appearances worldwide provide substantial earnings, with Spiritbox commanding increasingly higher performance fees as their popularity grows. Live shows at venues like Download Festival and Knotfest contribute significantly to touring revenue.
Merchandise Sales
Band merchandise including clothing, vinyl records, and limited edition items sold at concerts and online contributes significantly to overall income. Fans eagerly purchase Spiritbox-branded products at live performances.
Royalties and Licensing
Songwriting royalties and music licensing for films, television, and video games provide ongoing passive income streams. Publishing rights ensure continued revenue from their catalog.
Brand Collaborations and Endorsements
Partnerships with music equipment manufacturers and other brands aligned with her image generate additional revenue while providing quality instruments and gear for performances.
Luxurious Lifestyle
While LaPlante maintains a relatively grounded public persona, her success has afforded her certain comforts and experiences. She balances enjoying her achievements with staying focused on her artistic mission in the metal community.
International Travel
Extensive touring takes LaPlante worldwide, from major festivals in Europe to sold-out shows across North America, experiencing diverse cultures and culinary scenes. These festival appearances expand her global fanbase.
Professional Studio Access
Access to world-class recording facilities ensures the highest production quality for Spiritbox’s music, with no compromises on sound engineering or equipment. This investment in quality benefits their atmospheric sound.
Quality Musical Equipment
Investment in premium instruments, microphones, and gear supports her vocal performance and allows for optimal sound quality both in studio and on stage during live performances.
Victoria, BC Residence
Living in picturesque Victoria, British Columbia provides an inspiring environment that balances urban amenities with natural beauty, supporting creative work. The Canadian city remains her home base.
Creative Freedom
Financial stability allows LaPlante to pursue artistic projects without commercial pressure, maintaining Spiritbox’s integrity while experimenting with new sounds and collaborations in progressive metal.
Hobbies and Fun Facts
Beyond music, LaPlante has diverse interests that inform her artistry and provide balance in her life. These personal pursuits keep the singer grounded and inspired in the demanding music industry.
Spirituality and Religion
Though no longer religiously observant, LaPlante remains fascinated by all forms of religion and spirituality, which influences the thematic depth of her lyrics and songwriting approach.
Vocal Technique Study
Continuously refining both clean and harsh vocal techniques, she studies various singing methods to expand her already impressive vocal range and protect her voice for demanding performances.
Gaming Culture
An enthusiast of video games, LaPlante connects with fans who share this interest and finds creative inspiration in gaming narratives and soundtracks, often discussing this hobby on social media.
Animal Lover
Often sharing moments with pets on social media, she demonstrates compassion for animals that mirrors the emotional depth in her music and resonates with her Instagram followers.
Fashion and Style
Known for her distinctive stage aesthetic blending edgy metal looks with feminine elements, creating a visual identity as unique as her vocal style at live shows and festival appearances.
Mental Health Advocacy
Openly discusses mental health challenges through her music and interviews, helping destigmatize these conversations within the metal community and supporting fans facing similar struggles.
R&B and Pop Influences
Her appreciation for diverse musical genres beyond metal showcases the versatility that makes her such an effective vocalist, drawing from artists across the musical spectrum.
Future Prospects
LaPlante’s trajectory suggests continued growth and innovation in the coming years. Her established foundation and creative drive position her for even greater achievements in the music industry.
Mainstream Crossover Potential
Following her Coachella appearance with Megan Thee Stallion, opportunities for further crossover collaborations could expand Spiritbox’s audience beyond traditional metal fans into broader markets.
Grammy Award Victory
With three consecutive nominations, LaPlante expressed hope to become the first woman to win Best Metal Performance, which would be historic for gender representation and cement her legacy.
Continued Album Releases
With Tsunami Sea’s success, future Spiritbox albums will likely explore new sonic territories while maintaining their signature atmospheric metalcore sound and progressive metal elements.
International Headlining Tours
As Spiritbox’s popularity grows globally, larger venue headlining tours across continents will expand their reach and increase revenue potential through live performances.
Mentorship and Influence
Established as a role model, LaPlante’s influence on the next generation of female metal vocalists will continue shaping the genre’s future landscape and inspiring aspiring musicians.
Impact on Social Media
LaPlante maintains an active Instagram presence with 529K followers, where she connects authentically with fans through behind-the-scenes content, performance clips, and personal moments. Her social media strategy balances professional promotion with genuine interaction, creating a loyal community around her artistry. She uses these platforms to showcase Spiritbox’s work while maintaining her individual identity as a vocalist.
On X (formerly Twitter) with 93.7K followers, LaPlante shares her thoughts on music, culture, and industry issues. Her posts often display wit and humor, making her relatable to fans while maintaining professionalism in the metal scene. She’s not afraid to address controversies or misunderstandings directly, demonstrating transparency that fans appreciate and respect.
LaPlante’s social media influence extends beyond follower counts to genuine engagement and cultural impact within the metal community. Her posts frequently generate discussion among fans and musicians alike. Through consistent, authentic communication, she’s built a digital presence that complements her musical career and amplifies Spiritbox’s reach to new audiences globally.
Social Media Profile
- Instagram: @courtneylaplante (529K followers)
- X (Twitter): @corklezlaplante (93.7K followers)
- Spiritbox Official: @spiritbox (Band account)
- YouTube: Spiritbox Official Channel (Music videos and content)
- TikTok: Active presence sharing performance clips and behind-the-scenes content
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How old is Courtney LaPlante?
Courtney LaPlante is 36 years old as of 2025, born on February 26, 1989. She celebrates her birthday every year on February 26th and her zodiac sign is Pisces. Her age reflects years of experience perfecting her vocal technique in the metal scene.
Who is Courtney LaPlante married to?
Courtney LaPlante married guitarist Mike Stringer on September 1, 2016. They are both co-founders of Spiritbox and have played together in multiple bands throughout their relationship as creative partners.
What is Courtney LaPlante’s net worth?
Courtney LaPlante’s net worth is estimated between $3 million and $5 million in 2025. Her wealth comes from album sales, touring revenue, merchandise, streaming royalties, and various collaborations in the music industry.
What bands has Courtney LaPlante been in?
LaPlante started in the band Unicorn, then joined Iwrestledabearonce from 2012-2015, before co-founding Spiritbox in 2017. Spiritbox remains her current and most successful project to date in the metalcore scene.
Has Spiritbox won any Grammy Awards?
Spiritbox has received three Grammy nominations for Best Metal Performance but has not won yet. They were nominated for “Jaded” (2024), “Cellar Door” (2025), and “Soft Spine” (2026), making her a prominent figure in the metal community.
Where does Courtney LaPlante currently live?
Courtney LaPlante lives in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, which is also where Spiritbox is based. She moved there at age 15 and has remained connected to the city’s vibrant music scene.
What vocal styles does Courtney LaPlante use?
LaPlante is known for her versatility, seamlessly transitioning between ethereal clean vocals and aggressive death growls. She was first exposed to death growls through Cannibal Corpse at age five, developing interest in harsh vocals during adolescence. Her vocal range includes melodic singing and brutal screams.
Conclusion
Courtney LaPlante’s journey from small-town beginnings to international metal stardom exemplifies dedication, talent, and resilience. Her evolution from Iwrestledabearonce to co-founding Spiritbox demonstrates artistic growth and business savvy rare in the music industry. Through Grammy nominations, chart success, and groundbreaking collaborations, she has established herself as one of modern metal’s most important voices and influential female vocalists.
Beyond commercial achievements, LaPlante’s impact on gender representation in metal cannot be overstated. As a woman thriving in a male-dominated genre, she inspires countless aspiring musicians to pursue their dreams regardless of barriers. Her authentic approach to artistry, combined with technical vocal mastery and emotional depth, ensures her legacy will endure. As Spiritbox continues evolving and LaPlante explores new creative territories in progressive metal, her influence on heavy music’s future remains profound and ever-expanding within the metal community.
Den Mark is a passionate writer specializing in celebrity news, biographies, and net worth insights. With a keen eye for detail, he brings readers the latest updates and intriguing stories from the world of fame.
