[2025] Recommended Norwegian Artists Summary
What kind of image do you have of Norway’s popular music scene? If you like classic pop, a-ha might come to mind right away; if you’re into metal, you might quickly think of the black metal bands that even inspired films.
In recent years, Norway has produced global music producers like Kygo and Alan Walker, and the rise of young singer-songwriters such as AURORA and girl in red has been remarkable.
In this article, we’ll spotlight Norwegian musicians and introduce a selection of recommended artists all at once!
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[2025] Recommended Norwegian Artists (21–30)
StayTooji
Tooji is a singer who is also active as a TV host and model.
He was born in Iran and moved to Norway when he was a child.
“Stay” is a single released in 2012, and he performed this song at the Eurovision Song Contest 2012.
FairytaleAleksandr Rybak
Alexander Rybak, who is active as a singer and violinist, was born in Minsk and moved to Norway at the age of six.
“Fairytale” is a song performed at the Eurovision Song Contest 2009 and reached number one on the Norwegian charts.
City BoyDonkeyboy
Donkeyboy is a Norwegian band bringing the sparkle of ’80s pop into the present.
Their sound—glittering synthesizers intertwined with airy, echo-drenched vocals—is irresistibly appealing.
Their debut single “Ambitions,” released in 2009, achieved the remarkable feat of topping the Norwegian charts consecutively along with the follow-up “Sometimes.” That same year, they swept three categories at a music awards show, including Best New Artist, and were chosen to join the tour of legendary seniors a-ha—an episode that speaks volumes about their talent.
This crystal-clear Scandinavian synth-pop is perfect for a drive or whenever you want to lift your mood.
You’re sure to get hooked.
The Golden CoreMotorpsycho
Motorpsycho, a band that has led Norway’s music scene for over 30 years, is a rock group formed in Trondheim in 1989.
The core members are Bent Sæther and Hans Magnus Ryan.
Known for their shape-shifting style centered on psychedelic rock, they incorporate everything from hardcore and jazz to country.
With albums like Blissard and the classic Let Them Eat Cake, they have earned four Spellemann Awards—often called the Norwegian Grammys—cementing their formidable legacy.
Their fearless embrace of change and ongoing pursuit of experimental sounds are highly regarded by fans who seek music that defies genre boundaries.
IsaEnslaved
Like glaciers carving the earth, the Norwegian band Enslaved continually reshapes the conventions of metal.
Formed in 1991 by two teenagers, just 13 and 17 at the time, they built their foundation on Norse mythology.
Their music has evolved from early Viking metal into a grand, progressive sound.
Since their 1994 debut, their relentless pursuit of exploration has been widely acclaimed, earning them a prestigious Norwegian music award for the album Vertebrae.
Fusing aggression with artistry, their sound defies genre boundaries and is sure to stir the sensibilities of anyone seeking an intellectually stimulating experience.
MONUMENTKEiiNO
KEiiNO is a music group that brilliantly bridges Norway’s tradition and innovation.
Their sound boldly fuses the Indigenous Sámi traditional singing style “joik” with irresistibly catchy electropop.
Formed at the end of 2018, they made a global splash the following year when “Spirit in the Sky,” performed at the Eurovision Song Contest 2019, won first place in the public vote.
The harmony woven from the trio’s diverse musical backgrounds is as mesmerizing and powerful as the aurora of the far north.
Their music, embodying cultural diversity, is sure to stir the sensibilities of anyone seeking something new and exciting.
Drain CosmeticsSerena-Maneesh
Serena-Maneesh emerged from Norway in the far north and made their mark on the global alternative scene.
Their appeal lies in a sound that fuses shoegaze and noise rock, where stormy walls of sound coexist with delicate melodies.
Their 2005 debut album, Serena-Maneesh, received a high score of 8.
6 out of 10 from the international music outlet Pitchfork, and was named Album of the Year by a Norwegian daily newspaper.
From the chaotic flood of sound, luscious melodies rise to the surface—truly one of a kind.
This is a band you should hear if you crave bold, beautiful, thunderous rock.