SABATON and guitarist Tommy Johansson have decided to go their separate paths
Johansson was a member of SABATON from 2016 until now and has chosen to exit the group to focus on his musical endeavors beyond the band. SABATON has not yet announced a successor for Johansson.
SABATON released the following statement: “After 7 amazing years in the band, our guitarist, Tommy, has decided to leave Sabaton to pursue his own path. We wish him nothing but the best on his journey. We have been a close family and we will continue to support him in the adventures that await him in the future.
“Tommy joined the band in 2016 but he has been a close friend of Sabaton ever since our first meeting at the end of a concert in 2005. As a valued member of the band, he has contributed to countless immortal memories. Tommy’s departure from Sabaton will not be effective immediately. He will stay on to ensure that all goes smoothly with the handover to our next guitarist.
“While a small part of his large heart will always remain within Sabaton, we all know that he must follow his dreams. Even though we will not wake up daily in the tour bus next to him, we are sure that our paths will cross again many times in the future, both on and off the stage. Fly on your wings and strings brother!”
Johansson himself released his own statement, which reads: “My dear friends! After 7 glorious years of Heavy Metal, I have decided to step down as the guitarist of Sabaton. This has been the hardest decision I’ve ever made in my entire life.
“As many of you may know, I do a lot of things outside of Sabaton. I play with another band, perform with various artists, and have a career as a singer that I’ve put aside for years to focus on Sabaton. After doing this for seven years, I feel it’s time to start following my heart. This means I will no longer tour with my brothers in Sabaton and will not meet all you lovely Sabaton supporters on the upcoming tours with the band.
“I will never quit playing music. I’ll still be touring with Majestica and other projects, but not on the same level as Sabaton of course. I am sure I will meet you lovely fans on the road again in the future.
“My brothers in Sabaton and the best crew in the world will forever be my second family and I will miss spending time with all these wonderful people. We had so much fun together every day. I’ve come to learn so much about life, about music and about touring that I wouldn’t have learned anywhere else.
“A massive thank you to all you lovely Sabaton fans for accepting me as the new guitarist in 2016. I am certain you will accept the person who takes over after me. All the best to you all and I’ll see you again soon!”
SABATON is gearing up for an extraordinary celebration as they approach their 25-year milestone in the music industry.
Since their formation in Falun, Sweden, in 1999, SABATON has forged a legendary path, propelled by commanding anthems, 10 studio albums, compelling historical narratives, and explosive international performances. Their innovative projects and endeavors have been made possible by the steadfast support of a global fan base.
To honor this significant milestone, the band is embarking on a year-long celebration filled with exciting events and surprises for fans worldwide. Throughout 2024, each month will be dedicated to one of the group‘s albums, starting with “Primo Victoria” and concluding with “The War To End All Wars.” Fans can anticipate special activities and insights, including album stories, song facts, and exclusive listening parties where band members share their favorite tracks and unheard experiences.
The celebration will feature engaging initiatives such as games, contests, and giveaways with unique prizes, along with a limited edition 25-year anniversary merch, including exclusive items. The festivities will also include throwback photos, videos, and behind-the-scenes glimpses into SABATON‘s remarkable journey, providing fans with a nostalgic trip through the band’s history. Stay updated on the latest news and celebrations by following the band’s social media channels and website.
SABATON frontman Joakim Brodén expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming celebration, saying: “This is a massive milestone for us. Our fans have been with us every step of the way and we couldn’t be more excited to celebrate this monumental occasion with them. We’re planning some great things that we’ve never done before, and we’re confident that 2024 will be one to remember, especially as we are heading to the studio at the beginning of next year to begin working on new music!”
SABATON bassist and manager Pär Sundström added: “It’s hard to believe that a quarter of a century of us playing music and doing what we love the most has passed already. It’s been one hell of a journey, that’s for sure. We sing about history, but looking back we also wrote some history. Stay tuned!”
The follow-up to 2022’s “The War To End All Wars” is tentatively scheduled for release later in 2024 via Nuclear Blast Records.
SABATON recently unveiled the animated movie “The War To End All Wars,” narrating stories from the album of the same name. From the assassination of Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand in “Sarajevo” to the 1918 Treaty of Versailles in “Versailles,” the movie captures the historical essence of World War I.