Nightwish

Introduction

Nightwish is a symphonic metal band from Kitee, Finland. The band was formed in 1996 by lead songwriter and keyboardist Tuomas Holopainen, guitarist Emppu Vuorinen, and former lead singer Tarja Turunen. The band rose to fame with their album 'Oceanborn' in 1998, and their 2004 album 'Once' has sold more than a million copies.

A band performing on a stage with a large crowd in front of them.

History

Formation and early years (1996–1997)

Nightwish was formed in 1996 in Kitee, Finland, by Tuomas Holopainen while he was sitting around a campfire. The original members of the band were Holopainen, Tarja Turunen, and Emppu Vuorinen. The band initially played acoustic music, but quickly switched to metal as they found it more expressive and exciting.

Three young musicians in a recording studio.

Oceanborn and Wishmaster (1998–2000)

The band's second studio album, 'Oceanborn', marked a significant departure from the sound of their debut album. The music was more complex, and the usage of keyboards and string arrangements gave their music a more symphonic feel.

Century Child and Once (2002–2005)

In 2002, Nightwish released their fourth studio album, 'Century Child', followed by 'Once' in 2004. 'Once' utilized a full orchestra and choir, marking a new direction for the band and symphonic metal as a genre.

A CD cover with a child looking at a snow-covered landscape.

Musical style and influences

Nightwish's music is often described as symphonic metal, but their music also includes elements of power metal, folk metal, and progressive metal. The band's music is characterized by a cinematic, symphonic sound, which is achieved through the use of keyboards, orchestras, and choirs.

A symphony orchestra performing on a stage.

Discography

Nightwish has released nine studio albums, four live albums, two extended plays, 18 singles, and numerous videos. Their discography is a testament to their longevity and influence in the symphonic metal genre.