Nightwish Split With Singer Floor Jansen, 2 Statements Released

In a significant development within the symphonic metal scene, Finnish band Nightwish and vocalist Floor Jansen have announced their decision to separate after a longstanding partnership that began in 2013. This change marks the conclusion of a prominent chapter for both the band and Jansen, who have collaborated on three studio albums.

Nightwish, formed in 1996 and known for their orchestral metal sound, communicated the split as a mutual decision aimed at aligning with their future artistic goals. The band emphasized that this parting is a necessary step to facilitate their evolving ambitions. Following this announcement, Nightwish confirmed plans to enter the studio in 2027 to record new material, signaling their commitment to continue their legacy despite the lineup change.

Floor Jansen, a Dutch singer who stepped into Nightwish’s lineup after the departure of Anette Olzon, expressed gratitude for over a decade of fan support during her time with the band. She indicated that her focus will now shift entirely to her solo career, with her forthcoming album, Hytress, scheduled for release in early 2027. This transition reflects Jansen’s desire to dedicate herself fully to her individual artistic path.

Jansen’s tenure with Nightwish began after she replaced Olzon, who had filled the role following the exit of the band’s original vocalist, Tarja Turunen. During her time with Nightwish, Jansen contributed to the albums Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015), Human :||: Nature (2020), and Yesterwynde (2024), helping shape the band’s sound through more than a decade of international acclaim.

Before joining Nightwish, Jansen built her reputation within the symphonic metal genre as the lead singer of the Dutch band After Forever. Her experience with After Forever, where she performed from 1997 to 2009 and participated in five albums, laid the foundation for her subsequent success. Additionally, she launched a solo career with the release of her debut solo album, Paragon, in 2023.

Nightwish’s announcement highlighted that the split was reached after careful consideration and mutual respect. The band expressed optimism about their future endeavors, underscoring their excitement as they approach their 30th anniversary. Their message conveyed a determination to evolve while honoring the music and experiences shared with Jansen.

Details about who will take over vocal duties after Jansen have not been disclosed, leaving fans and industry observers anticipating the band’s next move. Nightwish’s continued dedication to their symphonic metal roots, combined with strategic lineup decisions, will undoubtedly influence their direction in the coming years.

Jansen, meanwhile, invites her supporters to join her as she embarks on the next phase of her musical journey, emphasizing the promise of new artistic growth and the opportunity to connect through her solo work and upcoming tour.

This development represents a pivotal moment for both parties, each poised to explore fresh creative horizons. Nightwish’s legacy as a foundational symphonic metal act remains intact, while Jansen’s solo aspirations promise to add new dimensions to her already distinguished career.