It's Official: Roy Khan leaves Kamelot

Kamelot hasn't been a band that has captured my heart, but that isn't to say I don't respect their work or their place in the metal scene. Roy Khan is an amazing vocalist, no doubt.  Today, Roy confirmed he's leaving the band, after months of speculation.

While the speculation seems to mostly revolve around some kind of religious conversion, I read something else that is far more insidious: I suspect there is a mental health issue at play here, and that is something I have a hell of a lot of empathy for.  I can't imagine having a mental health challenge and living the life of a rock star on the road, without some self-destrucitve behaviour coming in to play. It seems to me that Roy is making this decision to take care of himself in the best way possible. As someone who pretty much gave up a career due to a mental health issue, I can relate to this, and I sincerely wish Roy all the best with whatever path he chooses.  It takes a lot of bravery to step back, set boundaries, and make difficult decisions in the interest of having a healthy life.

Roy, I wish you a path of healing, strength, and serenity.