It marks the closing of a major chapter in the history of Nightwish. The Finnish symphonic metal band and its vocalist Floor Jansen have announced an amicable split. After three studio albums and more than a decade spent fronting the group on stage, the Dutch singer now intends to devote herself fully to her solo career. For its part, Nightwish confirms its intention to continue the journey, with a new album planned for 2027.
The announcement was made on October 15, as Nightwish celebrated thirty years of existence. In a statement posted on social media, the group explains that they had reached this decision after careful reflection, deeming it necessary in light of their respective ambitions: “For you, dear listeners, as for us, this marks the end of a truly exceptional journey,” the outfit states, while adding that they nevertheless want to look toward the future. Nightwish thus plans to return to the studio in 2027 to record a new album, although it does not yet specify who will take over on vocals.
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On joining Nightwish in 2012 to replace Anette Olzon, Floor Jansen quickly established herself as one of the band’s indispensable figures. Initially recruited to handle the tour, she became a permanent member in 2013. Her vocal power and versatility have accompanied three studio albums: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015), Human. :II: Nature. (2020) and Yesterwynde (2024). She has also helped shape the band’s live identity, notably through several live albums.
This departure comes after a long pause in touring. Nightwish has not performed since June 2023 and had announced the suspension of live activities for an indefinite period, choosing not to promote Yesterwynde on stage. The band is currently preparing another symbolic milestone in its history with the release of the compilation The Greatest 30 Years On Earth, announced for December 11.
The departure of Floor Jansen is not trivial. In 2021, Tuomas Holopainen, founder and primary composer of Nightwish, had even stated that Floor’s departure would spell the end of the band: “If Floor were to leave, it would be over for Nightwish. Absolutely, 100%,” he said at the time. Five years later, the group appears ready to carry on without her, despite this significant page turning.
After fourteen years of collaboration, Nightwish and Floor Jansen thus take different paths, without overt hostility. It remains to be seen which musical direction the group will choose for its next album and who will now handle the vocals. One thing is certain: while Nightwish prepares for its future, Floor Jansen is about to open a new personal chapter, with Hytress as the first step in a journey now marked by artistic freedom.
