"Walking in the Air" is a song that gained popularity through its association with the animated short film "The Snowman." The song was originally written by Howard Blake for the 1982 film, where it was performed by St Paul's Cathedral choirboy Peter Auty. However, it is most famously known for the version performed by Nightwish.
Here are some interesting facts about Nightwish's rendition of "Walking in the Air":
Nightwish's Version: Nightwish covered "Walking in the Air" for their 1998 album "Oceanborn." Tarja Turunen, the band's original lead vocalist, provided her powerful and operatic vocals for the track.
Musical Style: Nightwish infused their signature symphonic metal style into the song, giving it a more epic and orchestral sound compared to the original version.
Commercial Success: Nightwish's version of "Walking in the Air" contributed to the success of their "Oceanborn" album. The album received critical acclaim and helped establish Nightwish as a prominent band in the symphonic metal genre.
Live Performances: Nightwish has often performed "Walking in the Air" during their live concerts, and it has become a fan-favorite. The combination of Tarja's vocals and the band's orchestral elements creates a captivating and immersive experience for the audience.
Impact on the Band's Career: The success of "Oceanborn" and its standout tracks, including "Walking in the Air," played a crucial role in shaping Nightwish's career. It helped them build a dedicated fanbase and paved the way for their continued success in the symphonic metal genre.
Evolution of Nightwish: Over the years, Nightwish has undergone lineup changes, including the departure of Tarja Turunen and the arrival of subsequent lead vocalists. Each vocalist brought their own interpretation to the band's catalog, showcasing the versatility of Nightwish as a musical entity.
While "Walking in the Air" is not an original Nightwish composition, their interpretation of the song showcases their ability to breathe new life into existing works and make them distinctly their own.