If you’re a fan of symphonic metal, you’re probably already familiar with Nightwish. This genre blends the grandeur of classical music with the intensity of metal, creating a unique and powerful sound. Here are 15 bands and artists that you should definitely check out if you love Nightwish. Explore Nightwish on YouTube.

1. Epica

query=Epica’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Epica
Epica is a Dutch symphonic metal band known for their intricate compositions and powerful vocal performances by Simone Simons. Popular songs include “Cry for the Moon” and “Storm the Sorrow,” and their album The Quantum Enigma is a fan favorite.

2. Within Temptation

query=Within+Temptation’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Within+Temptation
Led by the enchanting voice of Sharon den Adel, Within Temptation has been a staple in the symphonic metal scene. Albums like The Silent Force and Hydra feature hits such as “Angels” and “Paradise (What About Us?).”

3. Delain

query=Delain’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Delain
Delain, formed by former Within Temptation keyboardist Martijn Westerholt, offers a blend of symphonic and gothic metal. Notable tracks include “We Are the Others” and “April Rain,” from their albums We Are the Others and April Rain.

4. Xandria

query=Xandria’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Xandria
Xandria is a German band that combines symphonic metal with elements of gothic and folk music. Songs like “Nightfall” and “Valentine” from their albums Neverworld’s End and Sacrificium showcase their dynamic range.

5. Kamelot

query=Kamelot’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Kamelot
Kamelot is an American symphonic metal band known for their theatrical performances and complex compositions. Albums like The Black Halo and Haven feature popular tracks such as “March of Mephisto” and “Insomnia.”

6. Leaves’ Eyes

query=Leaves%27+Eyes’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Leaves%27+Eyes
Leaves’ Eyes combines symphonic metal with Viking and folk themes, led by the powerful vocals of Elina Siirala. Notable songs include “Elegy” and “Hell to the Heavens” from their albums Vinland Saga and Symphonies of the Night.

7. Tarja

query=Tarja’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Tarja
Tarja Turunen, the former lead vocalist of Nightwish, has a successful solo career in symphonic metal. Albums like My Winter Storm and The Shadow Self feature hits such as “I Walk Alone” and “Innocence.”

8. Sirenia

query=Sirenia’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Sirenia
Sirenia, a Norwegian band, blends symphonic metal with gothic elements. Popular songs include “The Path to Decay” and “My Mind’s Eye” from their albums The 13th Floor and Nine Destinies and a Downfall.

9. Lacuna Coil

query=Lacuna+Coil’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Lacuna+Coil
Lacuna Coil is an Italian band known for their blend of gothic and alternative metal. Albums like Comalies and Delirium feature hits such as “Heaven’s a Lie” and “Enjoy the Silence.”

10. Therion

query=Therion’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Therion
Therion is a Swedish band that has been pioneering symphonic metal since the late 1980s. Notable tracks include “To Mega Therion” and “Lemuria” from their albums Theli and Lemuria.

11. After Forever

query=After+Forever’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=After+Forever
After Forever, fronted by Floor Jansen before she joined Nightwish, is known for their powerful symphonic metal sound. Popular songs include “Energize Me” and “Equally Destructive” from their self-titled album After Forever.

12. Amberian Dawn

query=Amberian+Dawn’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Amberian+Dawn
Amberian Dawn is a Finnish band that combines symphonic metal with power metal elements. Albums like River of Tuoni and Magic Forest feature songs such as “Valkyries” and “Magic Forest.”

13. Stream of Passion

query=Stream+of+Passion’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Stream+of+Passion
Stream of Passion, led by Mexican vocalist Marcela Bovio, offers a unique blend of symphonic and progressive metal. Notable tracks include “Out in the Real World” and “The Curse” from their albums Embrace the Storm and A War of Our Own.

14. Visions of Atlantis

query=Visions+of+Atlantis’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=Visions+of+Atlantis
Visions of Atlantis is an Austrian band known for their maritime-themed symphonic metal. Popular songs include “New Dawn” and “Return to Lemuria” from their albums Delta and The Deep & the Dark.

15. The Gathering

query=The+Gathering’>https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=The+Gathering
The Gathering, a Dutch band, has evolved from doom metal to a more symphonic and progressive sound. Albums like Mandylion and Nighttime Birds feature hits such as “Strange Machines” and “On Most Surfaces (Inuït).”