After 20 years playing, singing and co-creating music with Nightiwsh, Marko Hietala decides to leave the band.
This information has been published simultaneously via both parties' social media channels.
For me as a great fan of Nightwish and Marko’s musical talent since 2000’s and someone who had a privilege to meet him in person, document his festival and club shows, record an interview with him - this news came as a bitter pillow that is hard to swallow.
Reasons for Marko’s decision have been stated in his resignation letter published on his as well as Nightiwish social media. On this #OlexShow episode I would like to share some highlights as well as provide additional information that I was able to gather while studying this question myself.
I am not trying to speculate and pretend I know all the answers but rather share my observations and thoughts around them.