Every fall and winter, rock and metal fans look forward to Trans-Siberian Orchestra hitting the road as they spread holiday cheer in the form of original Christmas tunes alongside winter-themed songs and others delving into realms of pure fantasy. Many pondered the status of the group following the tragic passing of creator Paul O'Neill earlier this year and it looks like they'll stay the course.

Trans-Siberian Orchestra posted an update on their official website, confirming a 2017 run is on the horizon. "While all of us, the members of the Trans-Siberian Orchestra family are heartbroken by the tragic loss of our friend and leader Paul O'Neill, we are determined to carry on the rock theater project to which he dedicated his life," read a collective statement.

Continuing, the group commented, "Paul always talked about how he saw TSO as both an idea and ideal that would continue long after he stepped off the 'flight deck' (his name for the stage). We hope to continue his work of providing a timeless, multi-generational tradition like those created by his idol Charles Dickens. In that spirit, we are proud to announce that Trans-Siberian Orchestra will return with their 2017 Winter Tour featuring the cherished tale The Ghosts of Christmas Eve!

O'Neill was an esteemed rock producer, but was best known for creating Trans-Siberian Orchestra. The band released six full-length records during his lifetime, five of which reached either platinum, multi-platinum or gold status as certified by the RIAA. He passed away on April 5 at age 61 from what was officially ruled as "intoxication." O'Neill was battling chronic illnesses (including bone augmentation surgery, complications from spinal fusion surgery, heart disease, and hypertension) and was found have died from a combination of methadone, codeine, diazepam and doxylamine (an antihistamine).

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