Marko Hietala is a Finnish musician renowned for his deep, resonant voice and proficiency on the bass guitar. Born on January 14, 1966, in Tervo, Finland, he rose to international prominence as the bassist and male vocalist of the symphonic metal band Nightwish. Hietala's musical journey, however, stretches beyond his work with Nightwish, showcasing a versatile talent that spans various genres and collaborations. Before his tenure with Nightwish began in 2002, Hietala had been a part of several bands, including Tarot, a group he founded with his brother in the early 1980s, which played a crucial role in the Finnish heavy metal scene.

In addition to his contributions to Nightwish, Marko Hietala has pursued a successful solo career. His solo work, characterized by its exploration of different sounds and storytelling, delves into personal and philosophical themes set against the backdrop of his distinctive blend of folk, rock, and metal. Notable solo releases include "Mustan sydämen rovio" (the Finnish version) and its English counterpart, "Pyre of the Black Heart," both of which showcase his talent for crafting deeply emotive music and lyrics. These albums, along with singles like "Isäni ääni," "Flesh and Blood," and "Left on Mars," highlight Hietala's skill in blending melodic elements with powerful narratives, making him a respected figure in the world of rock and metal music. His work continues to resonate with fans around the globe, cementing his legacy as one of the genre's most influential and beloved figures.

Genres

Finnish Heavy Metal

Symphonic Metal

Related Artists

Nightwish

Within Temptation

Epica

Delain

Therion

Leaves' Eyes

Sabaton

Amaranthe

Sharon Den Adel

Beast In Black

Blind Guardian

Korpiklaani

Latest Release

Frankenstein's Wife

Marko Hietala

Single - Released September 4, 2024