Floor Jansen Leaves Nightwish After 14 Years as Band Confirms New Album for 2027

The symphonic metal giants announce an unexpected split with their longtime vocalist, bringing one of the band's most celebrated chapters to an end.

Nightwish have officially parted ways with vocalist Floor Jansen after 14 years together, bringing an unexpected end to one of the most successful eras in the Finnish symphonic metal band's history.

The announcement came on Thursday, 15 October, with both parties confirming that the decision was made by mutual agreement.

In their official statement, Nightwish described the separation as necessary for their respective future ambitions, wishing each other the best on their artistic journeys.

"For you, dear listener, and indeed for us, this marks the end of a truly great voyage," the band stated.

Despite the departure, Nightwish have made it clear that this is not the end of the road. The group intends to enter the studio in 2027 to record a new album, coinciding with celebrations marking their 30th anniversary.

The End of an Era

Floor Jansen joined Nightwish in 2012 following the departure of Anette Olzon, initially stepping in to complete the band's ongoing world tour. Her extraordinary vocal range and commanding stage presence quickly won over audiences, leading to her permanent appointment in 2013.

Over the following years, she became one of the defining voices of symphonic metal, recording three studio albums with the band: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015), Human. :II: Nature. (2020) and Yesterwynde (2024).

Her departure represents another significant change for a band that has already experienced several major lineup transitions, including the exits of original vocalist Tarja Turunen in 2005 and longtime bassist and vocalist Marko Hietala in 2021.

A New Beginning for Floor Jansen

Jansen has also addressed the announcement, acknowledging that leaving Nightwish was a difficult decision while expressing optimism about her musical future.

"Endings create new beginnings”

The Dutch singer confirmed that her solo career will now receive her full attention, with her upcoming album Hytressscheduled for release in 2027, alongside plans for a supporting tour.

For Nightwish, the immediate question is who will step behind the microphone next. No replacement has been announced, although the band's commitment to recording new material confirms that their story is far from over.

Fourteen years, three studio albums and countless unforgettable performances later, Floor Jansen's chapter with Nightwish has officially closed.

The Riff Collective