Free and Vibrant Music: Recommended Icelandic Artists — Popular Singers and Bands
Iceland, an island nation of magnificent, unspoiled nature.
Here, we’ll introduce some wonderful artists that Iceland has produced!
Though the population is only around 300,000, the overall music scene has been rising year by year, led by artists like Björk and Sigur Rós.
Iceland also feels familiar to Japan in certain ways—from being an island nation, to the interesting contrasts between what’s popular domestically and internationally, and the deep connections among artists.
Above all, the free and unique styles born from generous, rich music education are a must-hear!
Enjoy discovering their distinctive charm!
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[Free and Rich Music] Recommended Artists from Iceland: Popular Singers and Bands (1–10)
JógaBjörk
Björk, a singer-songwriter from Iceland, keeps receiving offers from renowned artists around the world.
In Japan as well, Ringo Sheena has named her as an artist she respects.
Björk’s talent for singing was recognized from a young age, and she has been active in music ever since.
She debuted at the age of 12, releasing an album mainly of cover songs.
However, she later said she wasn’t satisfied that it included only one original track.
It seems her commitment to originality has remained unchanged since she was a young girl.
She is recognized not only as a singer but also as an actress.
The film Dancer in the Dark is still regarded as a masterpiece.
When it comes to Icelandic musicians, she is the first name that comes to mind.
Be sure to check her out!
Color DecayJúníus Meyvant
The retro soul music by an Icelandic singer-songwriter feels incredibly fresh.
Júníus Meyvant is a singer-songwriter based in Iceland.
He released his first mini-album in 2015, which won Best Single of the Year and the Newcomer Award at the Icelandic Music Awards.
NPR Music described his sound as “soul-stirring melodies from the north.” It’s wonderfully soulful music that lifts listeners’ spirits!
Dansi DansFor a Minor Reflection
For a Minor Reflection is a post-rock band known for majestic compositions that conjure Iceland’s rich natural landscapes.
Their band sound, resonant with string performances, is striking, and together with moving piano lines, it soothes the listener’s heart.
You’ll experience a clear sound that pairs perfectly with sunny skies and blue seas.
They excel at alternative performances that bring out the full appeal of each instrument.
Be sure to listen to their tracks, which exude an ambient atmosphere.
Free and Rich Music: Recommended Icelandic Artists. Popular Singers and Bands (11–20)
Daisy, DaisyJóhann Jóhannsson
Jóhann Jóhannsson is an Icelandic composer known for providing music for films and plays.
He is an artist with a wide musical range, from punk rock to post-classical.
He is also famous for winning the Golden Globe Award for Best Original Score for his composition for the film The Theory of Everything.
He excels at creating beautiful, narrative-driven music in which emotions are clearly expressed despite being instrumental.
Be sure to check out his majestic pieces that evoke the vast natural landscapes of Iceland.
KolniðurJónsi
Jónsi, known as the frontman of Sigur Rós, is active not only with the band but also as a solo singer-songwriter.
His charm lies in that beautiful singing voice—the falsetto often described as angelic—with which he delivers uniquely original, graceful melodies.
While his solo work shares some of the tone and atmosphere of his output with Sigur Rós, it feels as though his voice is placed even more in the spotlight in his solo projects.
If you want to fully savor Jónsi’s vocals, this is a must-check!
Brighter DaysFM BELFAST
FM Belfast is an electropop band that captivates listeners with tracks driven by danceable beats.
From Iceland—a nature-rich nation at the forefront of the Nordic EDM boom—they deliver uniquely crafted pop.
Their colorful mixed-gender choral work flows freely alongside witty, theme-driven lyrics.
Widely active across Nordic music festivals, they’ve become an essential presence on the live scene.
Experience their synth sound that’s guaranteed to bring a smile.
Murr MurrMugison
Moogison is a singer-songwriter with a soulful voice and bluesy songs that exude a wonderfully cool vibe.
He even appeared on KEXP, the Seattle radio program considered a gateway for indie musicians around the world, which brought him global attention.
Originally, Moogison excelled at swimming and football and wasn’t particularly interested in the arts.
His interest in music began when, at 14, he witnessed an artist’s performance.
From there, he immersed himself in the worlds of music and literature.
His songs and performances vividly reflect the worldview he has cultivated over the years.