Oslo

Groovy History of Oslo Music: From Viking Riff to Indie Pop

Oslo, the capital of Norway, boasts a vibrant and eclectic music scene that’s more than just a bunch of folk strumming banjos around a bonfire. It’s a rich tapestry of influences, woven from the heart of the Viking spirit, a touch of Scandinavian melancholy, and the global beats that have made their way to this cool city.

From the Viking Age to the Swinging Sixties:

While the Vikings may not have had Walkmans, their love for music was strong. Ancient instruments like the lur (a long, trumpet-like horn) were used for communication and ceremonial purposes. Fast forward a few centuries, and the folk music of Norway took root, with traditional instruments like the Hardanger fiddle (a five-string beauty) and the nyckelharpa (a keyboard-like fiddle) adding a unique flair to the scene.

The Rise of Rock ‘n’ Roll:

In the 1960s, the world was gripped by the rebellious spirit of rock and roll. Oslo, however, seemed a bit hesitant to join the party. While the rest of Europe was dancing to the Beatles, Oslo was still rocking out to traditional folk. This led to a humorous incident where a group of Norwegian musicians decided to form a Beatles tribute band, but instead of singing in English, they performed the songs in their native tongue. The result was a hilariously awkward, but nonetheless unique, musical experience.

From Prog Rock to Indie Pop:

The 70s saw a blossoming of progressive rock in Oslo. Bands like “A-Ha” (who have a bizarre claim to fame: a song about a “take on me” that actually had nothing to do with romance, but rather a man’s struggle with his own reflection), “The Norwegian Wood” (with a name so ironic it practically begged for a Beatles reference) and “The Jaga Jazzist” (whose name suggests jazz, but their music is anything but) all pushed the boundaries of traditional music.

The New Wave and Beyond:

The 80s saw a resurgence of pop in Oslo. Bands like “Sondre Lerche” (who had a running gag about how his music was so “indie” that even his own parents didn’t know who he was) and “Kings of Convenience” (known for their mellow, almost melancholic tunes that were perfect for a rainy day in Oslo) took the scene by storm. These artists paved the way for a new generation of indie pop bands, showcasing the city’s talent to the world.

Modern Day Oslo:

Today, Oslo’s music scene is a vibrant mix of genres, from the electronic beats of “Röyksopp” to the pop-infused sounds of “MØ.” The city’s music festivals attract a diverse crowd, highlighting the global appeal of Oslo’s unique sonic identity.

Funny Facts:

• The Hardanger fiddle: This instrument is known for its haunting sound, but its history is anything but spooky. Legend has it that the five strings were added to a traditional fiddle after a woman’s ghost was said to have haunted a local musician.
• The “take on me” myth: While the lyrics of “Take On Me” by A-Ha are about self-reflection, many believe the song is about a man’s struggle to woo a woman.
• The “Norwegian Wood” band: The band’s name was a deliberate play on the Beatles’ song “Norwegian Wood,” but they were so obsessed with the Beatles that they even released a cover of the song on their first album.

Oslo’s music scene is a testament to the city’s vibrant culture and its embrace of all things groovy. From the ancient Viking chants to the indie pop anthems of today, Oslo’s musical journey is one filled with quirky humor and undeniable talent.