Former Evanescence guitarist Jen Majura has announced her decision to step away from the music industry. She cited her disgust with the current state of the scene in a detailed statement shared on Instagram.
The announcement outlined her reasons for leaving and reflected on her career experiences. Majura explained her decision to prioritize her well-being over continuing in an industry she no longer identifies with.
“Dear friends, I’m gonna make this as brief as I can: After careful consideration, observing what’s going on in the music industry, AI related developments and change in society I’ve come to the conclusion to step away,” Majura said.
She elaborated on her thought process and timeline for making this decision.
“Some of you have heard me talk about this quite a while ago,” she continued. “Instead of wasting another year of my life constantly hoping for new energy, drive and creativity, I’ve reached a point in my life where I can confidentially lean back in peace.”
Majura reflected on her career achievements while acknowledging the changes in the industry.
“While time allowed me, I was able to collect an amazing amount of beautiful experiences, tours, shows, travels and moments! I am grateful for every bit of that, but the world has changed,” she said. “I can confidently make up my mind to stop.”
The guitarist clarified that her departure might not be permanent but emphasized her current priorities.
“I am not saying that I will never create any music again, whether recorded or live – but for now I feel there are healthier and better things to fill my life with good vibes and not deal with the overwhelming amount of ridiculousness that comes with the music industry nowadays,” Majura explained. “I just can’t identify with today’s attitude and values anymore.”
She concluded her statement by thanking fans and announcing a final musical release.
“I wholeheartedly want to wish all the ambitious and remaining ‘creators,’ young and old, all the best,” she said. “To you, the fans, I wanna give you a giant virtual hug and say THANK YOU for all your support, love and faith throughout these years of me being an active touring musician, I am grateful.”
As part of her farewell, Majura announced the release of four previously unreleased tracks recorded over a decade ago with guitarist Dennis Hormes.
Majura’s departure marks the end of a significant chapter in her musical career. This chapter included notable achievements with one of rock’s most prominent bands.
Wikipedia reported that Majura joined Evanescence as rhythm guitarist in 2015 and contributed to their albums Synthesis (2017) and The Bitter Truth (2021), remaining with the band until 2022. Her tenure with the Grammy-winning band represented one of the most high-profile periods of her career. During this time, she toured internationally and recorded with the group that has sold over 25 million records worldwide.
Majura continued her musical journey by joining the band How We End after her departure from Evanescence. The band features vocalists Diva Satanica and Jake E, guitarist Tom Naumann, bassist Mitch Kunz, and drummer Adde Larsson. Wikipedia noted that their debut single “My Fighting Heart” was released in 2023. This showcased her continued commitment to creating music even as she began questioning her place in the industry.
Music industry professionals have recognized Majura’s talents throughout her career. Guitar Girl Magazine described her as a “diverse and incredibly talented musician.” The publication highlighted that her journey serves as an example of how hard work pays off in the competitive music industry.
Her decision to step away comes at a time when many artists are grappling with changes in the music business. These changes include the rise of artificial intelligence and shifting industry dynamics that she specifically mentioned in her farewell statement. The announcement has resonated with fans and fellow musicians who have followed her career from her early days through her time with Evanescence and beyond.
