After 13 years as ARCH ENEMY‘s vocalist, German-born Gossow shocked the heavy metal world in 2014 with the sudden announcement of her retirement from the band. While she is no longer performing with them, she has remained closely involved with ARCH ENEMY as their business manager.

“I took over management in 2008 already, after I noticed our previous manager was making a nice chunk of money, but we — the artist — did not at all,” she told Roppongi Rocks back in 2016 about her move into artist management. “We hardly managed to get by. That couldn’t be right. A lot of things changed for us since then. I think most managers take way too much out of the artist’s pocket. Like 20% of the gross income, then they waste away what’s left, no regards for the budget and the fact the artist should really make the most out of it. I’ve changed that. I take a lot less commission and I always make sure the artist makes more money than me at the end of the day!”

Asked how the dramatic changes in the revenue streams for non-mainstream musicians in recent years have affected the way she works with her artists from a business perspective, Gossow said: “Like I said, I think it’s wrong to take too much commission. Also, there are markets you don’t need to utilize a booking agent, but do it yourself. This way you save another 10% agent fee. It’s all about planning ahead and avoiding extra costs. Book your flights early, make sure your passports and visas are issued in time.

“Artists make money touring — but if touring becomes too expensive or you have to cancel a tour due to missing paperwork, you are ruined. It’s a manager’s duty to keep a good cash flow, review label and publishing statements, make sure all shows, etc. are being paid for, know the places you need to get an advance, take no risk with work permits, hire good crew and organize everything well ahead of time.

“Losing money and having stressful moments is threatening for a band’s existence. Be on top, sober and alert. Know what you are doing. Numbers don’t lie.”

About her decision to step down as ARCH ENEMY‘s singer, Gossow said simply: “There’s a time and place for everything. I started out in 1991. I was simply losing the joy to be doing this, living a life on the road. So I decided to step down rather than pretending.”

In November 2025, ARCH ENEMY parted ways with its singer of the past 12 years, Alissa White-Gluz. No reason was given for her departure.

The band released the following statement via social media: “ARCH ENEMY have parted ways with singer Alissa White-Gluz. We’re thankful for the time and music we’ve shared and wish her all the best.

“Wherever there is an ending, there is also a beginning.

“See you in 2026.”