Scandanavia might be one of the most underrated regions in the Western world when it comes to music. Let’s be honest, people don’t usually think of groups from this region when they’re asked about their favourite chart-topping pop hits. Ask most people to name one and they’ll probably know ABBA and that’s about it.
Now, in all fairness, ABBA continues to be one of the most well-known pop bands in the world, and with good reason. The sheer volume of tribute groups they have; there aren’t many other bands in the world that come close to having the same amount. The chance to play blackjack or progressive slots amongst the buzz of Vegas while watching a different tribute act every night like you can with ABBA, for example, is a pretty rare achievement.
Truth be told, though, Scandinavia is responsible for some of the best pop acts out there – and what’s being listened to in 2021 is no different. Though some have been around longer than others, the region’s music – both new and old – continues to impress. Keep reading to learn what our favourite acts of 2021 are.
Lykke Li
I think it’s fair to say that any discerning music listener has heard of Lykke Li – you don’t have to be into Scandipop to enjoy her music, either. Since her first album back in 2008, the Swedish singer-songwriter has had two top 40 songs in the Billboard charts.
Likely her most popular songs are I Follow Rives, Dance Dance Dance, and No Rest For The Wicked. If you have a taste for dreamy pop with lush lyrics and beautiful female vocals, Lykke Li is for you.
Robyn
If the return of gigs and festivals is good for something, it’s to finally see Robyn back on the circuit. Robyn has been turning out music since 1995 – a career that spans close to 30 years and nine albums shows she’s made a real impression on the industry.
The Stockholm-born singer-songwriter has had two top-10 hits on the US Billboard charts – ‘Do You Know’ and ‘Show Me Love’ – but they’re not even the real classics. If you don’t yet know Robyn by name, you’ll know her by ‘With Every Heartbeat’ and ‘Dancing On My Own’.
José González
You’d be forgiven for thinking that José González has more than just Latin American heritage, but he’s actually one of Sweden’s most globally popular and well-received artists. Though he’s a member of the band Junip, he’s most known for his solo stuff, and a career that’s been cherished for decades, whether it’s through playing to huge crowds at festivals, on TV commercials, or in major entertainment appearances like Secret Life Of Walter Mitty and Fear The Walking Dead.
Surprisingly, he’s only put out three albums, though there’s another on the way – his first in six years. If you want to get up to speed with his discography before this album is released, listening to Heartbeats, Crosses, and Teardrop would be good songs to start off with.
