La vie

After thirteen years as the frontwoman of melancholic metallers The Gathering, Anneke ventured out on her own in 2007. Since then, her creativity has known no bounds, and she quickly established a successful solo career.In addition to her solo work, Anneke has collaborated extensively with Canadian metal visionary Devin Townsend and Ayreon mastermind Arjen Lucassen. Her musical versatility is further reflected in guest appearances with Within Temptation, Icelandic folk group Árstíðir, Amorphis, grindcore pioneers Napalm Death, and prog legend John Wetton (King Crimson).In 2019, the Dutch music copyright organization Buma Cultuur honored Anneke with the Buma ROCKS! Export Award, recognizing her as one of the most prominent Dutch artists abroad in heavy music. In early 2021, she released her deeply personal solo album ‘The Darkest Skies Are The Brightest’. Later that year, Anneke appeared on the popular Dutch television show ‘Beste Zangers’, where she made a strong impression on a wide and diverse audience. To celebrate the 30th anniversary of ‘Mandylion’, the landmark album that defined The Gathering’s international breakthrough, the band reunited in its original lineup for five sold-out shows. For Anneke, it was a return to familiar ground, and one that resonated far beyond expectations. The overwhelming response has led to a full slate of major concerts and festival appearances worldwide in 2026 with her former bandmates.