Finnish symphonic metal icons Nightwish have announced their split with vocalist Floor Jansen, bringing to a close one of the most celebrated chapters in the band's three-decade history. The separation was described as mutual, with both parties set to pursue their respective artistic ambitions while the band prepares for its next era.
In a joint statement, the band confirmed that it will continue despite the departure and intends to enter the studio in 2027 to record a new album. No replacement vocalist has been announced so far.
Floor Jansen first joined Nightwish as a touring vocalist in 2012 following the departure of Anette Olzon, becoming a permanent member the following year. During her tenure, she appeared on three studio albums: Endless Forms Most Beautiful (2015), Human. :II: Nature. (2020), and most recently Yesterwynde (2024).
The news arrives amid an unusual period in the band's history. In 2023, Nightwish announced an indefinite hiatus from touring, explaining that the decision was necessary for the well-being and future of the group. The band subsequently released Yesterwynde in September 2024 but chose not to tour in support of the album, making it the first studio release in their catalogue not to receive a dedicated touring cycle.
Since their final run of live appearances in 2023, the group has remained on what members have repeatedly described as a "temporary hold", with no timetable given for a return to the stage. Earlier this year, Jansen stated that there were no concrete plans for the band's future live activities.
While Nightwish move forward with work on new material, Floor Jansen will focus on her solo career. The singer recently confirmed plans for her sophomore solo album, Hytress, due on 15 January 2027, alongside an accompanying tour (see tour dates below).
Founded in 1996 by Tuomas Holopainen, Nightwish remain one of the defining names in symphonic metal. As the band approaches its 30th anniversary, the departure of Jansen marks another significant turning point in a history already shaped by several high-profile line-up changes. Link
* Floor Jansen - Hytress Tour Dates:
14.01.2027 Antwerpen Trix
15.01.2027 Paris Le Bataclan
16.01.2027 London Electric Brixton
21.01.2027 Nürnberg Löwensaal
22.01.2027 Pratteln Konzertfabrik Z7
23.01.2027 Stuttgart LKA Longhorn
25.01.2027 Frankfurt Batschkapp
26.01.2027 Munich Backstage Werk
27.01.2027 Prague Roxy
29.01.2027 Warsaw Progresja
30.01.2027 Leipzig Täubchenthal
31.01.2027 Hamburg Große Freiheit
04.02.2027 Gothenburg Pustervik
05.02.2027 Stockholm Berns
11.02.2027 Oberhausen Turbinenhalle T2
12.02.2027 Utrecht Tivoli
13.02.2027 Tilburg O13
24.04.2027 Sao Paolo Bangers Open Air Festival
27.04.2027 Buenos Aires
29.04.2027 Chili Santiago
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