**Within Temptation Lead Guitarist Ruud Jolie Takes Over as CEO of Dutch Music Technology Firm**
In a surprising career move, Ruud Jolie, the longtime lead guitarist of the internationally acclaimed symphonic metal band Within Temptation, has been appointed as the CEO of *SoundWave Technologies*, a Dutch company specializing in music technology and innovation. The announcement has stirred both the music and tech industries, as Jolie, known for his prowess on the guitar and his role in shaping Within Temptation’s sound, embarks on a new chapter that marries his passion for music with cutting-edge technology.
### From Stage to CEO: A Natural Progression
For fans of Within Temptation, Jolie’s transition from lead guitarist to CEO may seem like an unexpected shift. However, those familiar with his broader interests know that Jolie has always been fascinated by the technical side of music production. Over the years, he has worked on several projects outside of the band, dabbling in sound design, music software, and the development of audio tools that enhance both live and studio performances.
Speaking at a press conference announcing his new role, Jolie said, “Music has always been my passion, and technology is the future of how we create and experience it. Taking on the CEO role at SoundWave Technologies is not just about managing a company; it’s about pushing the boundaries of what we can achieve in sound, production, and live performance. It’s an exciting opportunity to combine two of my greatest loves—music and innovation.”
### A Vision for the Future of Music Technology
SoundWave Technologies, founded in 2015, has quickly become one of Europe’s most respected music tech companies. The firm develops software and hardware solutions aimed at both professional musicians and hobbyists. From advanced audio interfaces and plugins to virtual instruments, the company’s products are used in studios and live settings across the globe.
Under Jolie’s leadership, SoundWave Technologies is expected to explore new horizons in artificial intelligence (AI) music production, immersive audio experiences such as spatial sound, and enhanced digital platforms for independent artists. Jolie’s vision for the company is clear: to make high-quality music technology more accessible while continuing to innovate in ways that empower musicians to push creative boundaries.
“Musicians today are not just performers, they are creators, producers, and innovators in their own right,” Jolie explained. “Technology should be a tool that enhances creativity, not limits it. We are already developing products that will allow artists to explore new dimensions of sound without needing to be tech experts.”
### The Musician-CEO Advantage
Jolie’s appointment is not just a case of a musician stepping into the corporate world; it’s a musician who understands the needs of other musicians leading the charge. As someone who has spent decades touring, recording, and producing, Jolie brings an insider’s perspective to SoundWave’s product development pipeline. He is expected to focus heavily on refining the user experience of the company’s software and hardware, ensuring that products are intuitive, flexible, and capable of meeting the demands of modern artists.
Within Temptation’s sound has always been known for its fusion of orchestral elements, metal, and electronic influences, a combination that often requires high-level audio engineering skills. Jolie has long been involved in these technical aspects of the band’s work, from overseeing recording sessions to experimenting with new production tools.
This hands-on experience in the studio gives Jolie a unique edge as he steps into his role at SoundWave. “One of the things I’ve always loved about music is how the right piece of technology can completely transform a song or a live performance. I want to give that experience to as many musicians as possible,” he said.
### Balancing Music and Business
Despite his new responsibilities as CEO, Jolie made it clear that he will continue to be a part of Within Temptation. The band, which has sold millions of records and toured extensively, remains one of the most influential symphonic metal acts in the world. Jolie’s ability to balance both roles will be a testament to his dedication to music.
“There’s no way I could ever leave Within Temptation,” Jolie reassured fans. “Music is in my DNA, and the band is a huge part of my life. But this new role will allow me to help shape the future of music technology, which is just as exciting.”
With Jolie at the helm of SoundWave Technologies, the music technology industry is set to benefit from his creativity, technical know-how, and deep understanding of the challenges musicians face. Fans and industry experts alike are eager to see how his leadership will impact the company and, by extension, the future of music production.
As Jolie settles into his role, it’s clear that his passion for both music and technology will drive SoundWave Technologies toward exciting innovations, all while continuing his successful career with Within Temptation.
