Within Temptation and Leonie Meijer Release Emotional Version of the Legendary Hit “Toy Soldiers”
The Dutch symphonic metal band Within Temptation, together with Dutch singer Leonie Meijer, has released a new interpretation of the iconic song “Toy Soldiers”, originally performed by American singer Martika in the late 1980s. This unusual duet combines the powerful vocals of Sharon den Adel with Leonie’s soft, soulful tone, creating a unique atmosphere and a fresh take on the classic hit.
The idea for the cover emerged spontaneously—during one of the musicians’ meetings, a conversation about music evolved into an impromptu joint recording. Sharon den Adel noted that the choice of “Toy Soldiers” felt natural, as the song was perfect for collaborative creativity and conveying emotional depth. The new version differs from the original with a more intimate sound and gentle arrangement, making it particularly touching for listeners.
The original track “Toy Soldiers” was released in 1988 on Martika’s debut album and quickly became an international hit, reaching number one on the US charts and entering the top 5 in the UK, Germany, and Ireland. The song deals with struggles with addiction and emotional vulnerability, and over the years has become iconic, inspiring many new artists to create their own versions.
The music video of the cover is already available online, and audiences are actively discussing the unusual combination of Within Temptation and Leonie Meijer’s vocals. Fans note that the track preserves the spirit of the original while sounding modern and emotionally rich. This version appeals not only to symphonic metal fans but also to 80s pop music enthusiasts, creating a wide resonance in music communities.
The new rendition of “Toy Soldiers” by Within Temptation is a significant event for the band’s fans and for anyone who appreciates quality covers of global hits. Thanks to the harmonious blend of vocals and carefully crafted arrangement, the song already deserves attention from music bloggers, radio stations, and online platforms.
