After months of uncertainty, Kamelot has officially parted ways with singer Roy Khan. The band had been forced to play shows recently without Khan (with Rhapsody Of Fire’s Fabio Lione filling in) after the singer decided to drop off the tour due to personal reasons.

Khan released the following statement regarding his departure:

“Dear fans and friends,

There have been a lot of speculations around why I am not touring with Kamelot and I want to make a statement although it may not prevent further guessing as to what’s actually going on. It is a fact, however, that I told the guys in the band already last fall (well after my burnout) that I was leaving the band. Naturally enough, they were shocked (as was the label and everyone else working with Kamelot). In addition to risk of dropping ticket sales, they wanted to give me time to think things over, and so I did. My decision still stands; it is finished.

I am currently spending time with my family in Norway taking it easy and wondering profoundly what the future is going to bring. Communication with the outer world has been so and so, but I have had several talks with Thomas [Youngblood, Kamelot guitarist/mainman] along the way, although I am still called in sick. I am terribly sorry that my decision is affecting so many others and I want you to know I wish the band and associates all the best for the future and that I enjoyed every second in the spotlight. How could I not?! They were nourished by the best fans in the world!

I am eternally thankful for everything you and Kamelot have given me and equally sorry that it has to end here. The good news is; God was there after all…

Love you to death!!!”

The remaining members of Kamelot released the following statement:

“With a heavy heart, we can now announce that Roy Khan has chosen to leave the band. We wanted to give him ample time for this kind of decision, due to his recent burnout and also the amount of amazing times we have shared with him in Kamelot. We respectfully accept his resignation from the band and wish him the best in his future endeavors. The timing is actually good since we feel the uncertainty the fans have had can now be laid to rest and the band can move on to finding a new singer.”

Guitarist Thomas Youngblood has revealed that they are in the process of looking for a new singer and have a few names in mind already. Currently, the band is in the middle of their South American tour. We’ll keep you posted when more develops.