about
biography
Charlotte Wessels is a Dutch singer, songwriter, and producer, best known for her distinctive voice and genre-blending approach to modern symphonic metal. Since launching her solo career in 2021, she has carved out a unique artistic identity defined by cinematic storytelling, emotional honesty, and a fearless fusion of styles that bridges metal, alternative, and dark pop influences.
Her latest release, The Obsession (2024), has been widely praised for its dynamic range, artistic growth, and emotional depth. Ever Metal highlighted its “skyscraper melodies” and Wessels’ “masterful vocals,” while Blabbermouth noted the album’s impressive variety. Louder Sound described it as “an auspicious and metallicized spin on her dark fairytale aesthetic,” while Metal Sucks called it “a transcendent collection of moving yet forceful and complex compositions,” further cementing her reputation as a versatile and evolving artist.
Wessels and her band, also named The Obsession, supported the release with a tour alongside VOLA in November 2024, followed by a major summer festival run in 2025, including appearances at Graspop, Hellfest, Tuska, Summer Breeze, and Dynamo Open Air. In early 2026, they embarked on their biggest tour to date, joining EPICA and AMARANTHE on the Arcane Dimensions Tour, performing in arena-sized venues across Europe. A new studio album is scheduled for early 2027, after which Wessels will take The Obsession of their first European headline tour, with Melissa Bonny joined as support.
background
In 2005, at the age of 17, Wessels became the lead vocalist of Delain, with whom she released a series of acclaimed albums, including Lucidity (2006), April Rain (2009), We Are the Others (2012), The Human Contradiction (2014), Moonbathers (2016), and Apocalypse & Chill (2019). Her emotive vocals, powerful melodies, and narrative-driven lyrics were instrumental in shaping the band’s sound and international success.
Following her departure from the band in 2021, Wessels embarked on a solo career that highlighted her versatility and artistic independence. Her initial solo releases, Tales from Six Feet Under (2021) and its 2022 sequel, were written and recorded in her basement home studio during the pandemic and shared directly with fans via Patreon. These albums explored a wide range of genres, reflecting her eclectic influences, with songs and visuals inspired by horror, film, literature, and art.
Her collaborative spirit is evident in guest appearances with artists such as EPICA, Kamelot, and Textures, as well as her work on the 2021 Qlimax Anthem with DJ Ran-D.
the obsession
In September 2024, Wessels released The Obsession, her first full studio album under Napalm Records—and her most personal work to date. The album chronicles her experiences with OCD through songs exploring fear, intrusive thoughts, and obsession, combining raw vulnerability with expansive, cinematic soundscapes.
While incorporating fresh and progressive influences, the album also marks a return to her symphonic metal roots. It features collaborations with former Delain bandmates Timo Somers (guitar), Otto Schimmelpenninck van der Oije (bass), and Joey Marin de Boer (drums), alongside pianist Sophia Vernikov and keyboardist/orchestrator Vikram Shankar. Guest vocalists include Simone Simons (EPICA) and Alissa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy). The 2025 special edition added a duet with Asger Mygind (VOLA). In 2025, Nina van Beelen (keys, vocals) joined The Obsession live and studio endeavours.
community
Based in Utrecht, Wessels maintains a uniquely close relationship with her audience through Patreon, where she connects with over 3,000 patrons. More than a platform, it has become a creative sanctuary where fans actively participate in her artistic process.
Since launching her Patreon in 2020, she has released a new song every month, resulting in over 70 “Song of the Month” tracks to date. Through exclusive behind-the-scenes content, early access to music, and intimate livestream performances, she has cultivated a thriving, collaborative community—one that exemplifies a modern, direct artist-fan relationship.
Beyond her musical career, Wessels holds degrees in art history and gender studies. She frequently engages with themes such as mental health, equality, animal rights, and climate awareness through her music and platform.
Charlotte Wessels remains a defining voice in modern metal—continually pushing boundaries through emotive performances, thought-provoking storytelling, and an unwavering commitment to artistic evolution.
Left to right: Timo Somers, Nina van Beelen, Charlotte Wessels, Joey Marin de Boer, Otto Schimmelpenninck van der Oije. Photo by Nina Hermans