Hungary | Compact Disco - "Lazul a város"

BRAND NEW

Hungarian band Compact Disco returns to Sounds European! with a gem of electronic pop. "Lazul a város" starts as a calm song but evolves into a very danceable track!

Updated on February 11th, 2018, with the official video.

Azerbaijan | Emin - "V probkakh"

BRAND NEW

Azerbaijani star Emin has a new single on offer. And that can only mean one thing: it's time to listen to awesome music! "V probkakh" offers a delightful melody and a very memorable chorus. It's impossible to listen to it without getting fully involved!

Latvia | Aija Andrejeva - "Tu mani sauc"

BRAND NEW

Latvian singer Aija Andrejeva returns to Sounds European! with a great new single. "Tu mani sauc" takes contemporary R&B beats to convey a deep and emotional ballad.

Denmark | Phlake - "IKEA episodes"

BRAND NEW

Phlake are a Danish R&B and soul duo from Albertslund, consisting of Mads Bo and Jonathan Elkær. They came to prominence after their single "Pregnant" got to the top ten of the charts in Denmark and spread to other countries. Their new single, "IKEA episodes", is very catchy. We can't stop listening to it!

United Kingdom | Josephine Oniyama - "'Til you"

BRAND NEW

Josephine Oniyama is a British singer hailing from the city of Manchester. Her impressive voice shines bright in her most recent single: "'Til you" is an uptempo mixture of pop and soul that lets Josephine captivate you from the very first second!

Russia | Slava - "Odnazhdy ty"

BRAND NEW

Sounds European! remeets Russian super star Slava with her new single. It's entitled "Odnazhdy ty", and it's a very cool electropop, with that unique quality only Slava can add to music. Her great vocal capacity fills songs as few ones can!

Updated on January 14th, 2018, with the official video.

Germany | Die Toten Hosen - "Wannsee"

RECENT

German band Die Toten Hosen is popular because of their edgy rock performances. But their most recent single shows the group is ready to explore other sounds. "Wannsee" has softer verses and delivers an imponent chorus, a combination which elevates the song to a whole new level!

Romania | Babilon - "Monstrii de sub pat"

BRAND NEW

Babilon are a Romanian band from Bucharest, consisting of young talents Vladimir Tătaru, Radu Pârvulescu, Flavius Hosu and Dragos Popa. They have just released a new single, entitled "Monstrii de sub pat". It's a very interesting song, with a unique approach and result.

Sweden | Ola Salo - "I call your name"

BRAND NEW

Swedish singer Ola Salo has recently unveiled a new single. We are talking about "I call your name", a pop track which brings back retro sounds in a truly contagious way!

North Macedonia | Anita Micova - "Na pat kon jug"

RECENT

It's always a delightful pleasure to remeet Macedonian singer Anita Micova. Her singles are a breath of freshness for the ears! "Na pat kon jug" is one more sample of that: it's a lovely song, with a wonderful folk feeling in it.

Sweden | Robin Bengtsson - "Dark angel"

BRAND NEW

Swedish singer Robin Bengtsson had a great 2017. Earlier this year, he won Melodifestivalen, which earned him the right to represent his country on Eurovision. After placing fifth in the contest, he went back to the studios to release new music, and here is his new single: "Dark angel" is a fantastic pop song with retro beats and a memorable chorus!

Russia | Julia Kogan - "Lebedi"

BRAND NEW

It's time to remeet Russian singer Julia Kogan, who has just released a new single. "Lebedi" is a passionate, strong and emotional track. Julia prints a unique quality to this kind of music, with her excellent voice and her high capacity of adding true feelings to her songs.

Netherlands | Celine Cairo - "Quicksand"

RECENT

Dutch singer Celine Cairo is back to our site with a lovely new single. "Quicksand" is a mellow and delicate alternative ballad, in which Celine's voice blossoms. The chorus is highly engaging!

Finland | Intiaanikesä - "Neiti kesäheinä"

RECENT

Intiaanikesä are a Finnish band consisting of Johannes, Tapio, Lassi, Aleksi and Antti. They have just released a single entitled "Neiti kesäheinä", which is a light, but very effective song. It offers a smooth and hypnotic ambience and a very marking chorus.

United Kingdom | Jake Bugg feat. Noah Cyrus - "Waiting"

BRAND NEW

British singer Jake Bugg has recently gathered with American artist Noah Cyrus (Miley's sister) for a beautiful single. "Waiting" is a delightful classic ballad which is driven by a wonderful instrumentation. The result is really interesting!

Sweden | Nano - "One"

RECENT

Swedish singer Nano made a great first impression to the big public in this year's Melodifestivalen (the Swedish National Final for Eurovision). And now he is ready to show that "Hold on" was no coincidence. He has just released a new single, "One", in which he explores with more movemented, yet equally compelling, pop sounds. It's our song of the week!

Spain | Nico Santos - "Rooftop"

BRAND NEW

Nico Santos is a Spanish singer who was born in the city of Palma, but is currently developing his career in Berlin. He has just released "Rooftop", which is pop as it should always be. Its verses build energy for a very marking and catchy chorus!

Updated on November 28th, 2017, with the official video.

Romania | Phaser - "Alerg"

RECENT

Phaser are Carina, Radu, Sebi, Lucian and Arnold, a five-piece band formed in Timisoara. They have caused a great impression on us with their latest single: "Alerg" is a powerful mixture of modern sounds which make up a fantastic ballad!

Italy | Alessio Paca - "Maschere"

BRAND NEW

Alessio Paca is an Italian singer who was born in Padova. He has just released a new single, entitled "Maschere", which is a very deep and passionate ballad. The mix of beautiful voice and hypnotic melody makes it all quite irresistible!

Moldova | Carla's Dreams - "Beretta"

BRAND NEW

Moldovan ensemble Carla's Dreams are confirming their status as one of the biggest contemporary acts in their country and neighbours. Their new single is "Beretta", a song in which they explore a sound that leans more to rap and hip-hop but retains a great pop base.

Armenia | Sirusho - "Huh-hah"

BRAND NEW

Armenian pop diva Sirusho has splashed us with a fantastic new single. "Huh-hah" exudes folkloric sounds in a very movemented way, which is evidenced by the colourful and happy video. We still couldn't stop dancing!

Netherlands | Marco Borsato - "Thuis"

BRAND NEW

Get ready to listen to an amazing song from the Netherlands! Dutch super star Marco Borsato has just released a new single. And there is no doubt: "Thuis" is a wonderful song! Its instrumentals are simple, but classy and very effective. And the chorus makes it reach a great peak of feelings!

Portugal | Marco Rodrigues - "O tempo"

RECENT

Portuguese singer Marco Rodrigues returns to our site with a new single. "O tempo" is another beautiful ballad which retains elements from local fado music to produce a more touching and intimate melody.

Poland | Antek Smykiewicz - "Już nie ty"

RECENT

Sounds European! remeets Polish star Antek Smykiewicz and his new single. "Już nie ty" offers an involving melody, beautiful instrumentals and quite an effective chorus. The overall result is very exciting!

Russia | Sergey Lazarev - "Shepotom"

BRAND NEW

Russian pop star Sergey Lazarev keeps surprising us with new singles. His most recent one is "Shepotom", a song which plays between contemporary beats and classic instruments, creating a truly unique sound.

Updated on November 3rd, 2018, with the official video.

Denmark | Carpark North - "Unbreakable"

OLDIE

It's been a bit more than a year that Danish band Carpark North has released their single "Unbreakable". We don't know why it took us so long to listen to it, but as soon as we did, we were sure: it deserved to be here! What a stupendous song! It's so energetic and addictive! We are totally in love with it!

Greece | Vivi Mastralexi - "Ena ginomai me sena"

BRAND NEW

Vivi Mastralexi is a Greek singer from the city of Chalkidiki. She has just released a new single, entitled "Ena ginomai me sena". And let us say: it's a wonderful piece of Greek pop! The chorus could not be any catchier than it is.

Romania | Reni Tolvai feat. Kállay Saunders - "Say"

RECENT

Romanian-born singer Reni Tolvai has teamed up with American-born Kállay Saunders to create one of the biggest hits from Hungary: "Say" is an alternative indie ballad with hints of pop and R&B, a combination born to enhance us!

Ukraine | Misha Marvin - "Istoriya"

RECENT

It's time to remeet Ukrainian singer Misha Marvin and his awesome new single. He has just released "Istoriya", a well-paced pop song with marking chorus and a groovy melody. His voice works very well with it all!

United Kingdom | Jessie J - "Not my ex"

BRAND NEW

British singer Jessie J is back with new music! Her newest single is "Not my ex", a song that takes the artist down the emotional, intimate path. The result is a chilling ballad that arouses feelings throughout!

Turkey | Gulden Mutlu feat. Askim Kapismak - "Ne biliyorsun hakkimda"

RECENT

Two great Turkish artists have gathered to release a song together. We are talking about Gulden Mutlu (born in Tekirdağ in 1984) and Askim Kapismak (hailing from Istanbul), who met for "Ne biliyorsun hakkimda". The song is an explosion of folkloric sounds in a compelling ballad.

10 Questions For: ISA

INTERVIEW

She is one of the biggest rising stars of the Swedish music scene. And we have no doubt: her music is ready to take the world! Sounds European! had the honor of talking to her, and the interview is amazing! These are our 10 questions for ISA:

Sounds European!: Our music experiences, when we are younger, usually influence our adult preferences. How about yours? Who were your music idols when you were growing up? Who did you enjoy listening? Do you feel any artist has influenced your work?

ISA: My absolute biggest idol when I was growing up was Beyoncé. And she still is a big inspiration for me today. She has been a role model when it comes to performing, vocal technique and songwriting. In addition to Beyoncé, I listen a lot to Kehlani, Chris Brown, Bryson Tiller and Brandy, to give a few examples. Every song I hear inspires me to improve my songwriting and singing.

SE!: What are your first singing memories? At what age did you start singing and what songs did you like performing?

I: One of my first singing memories is when I sang in our living room back at home. Mom bought a microphone from a toy store and I loved to perform with it. One of my favorite songs at the time was "Mamma mia" by ABBA, so that was probably sung a hundred times every week. Each time we had guests over for dinner, I demanded for everyone's attention. It was always my time to shine, haha.

SE!: You were an early bloomer: your talents were clear and you started having your work recognized at a very young age. How did you face fame and recognition, being such a young person? What are the pros and cons of being a "teen talent"?

I: In 2012, I released my first single, "Bomb", and participated in the Swedish TV show Sommarkrysset. A year later, my second song, "What are we", got out. I started to make a name for myself, but not on a huge scale. Not until I was competing in Melodifestivalen, in 2015, did I have my big break.

The benefit of being a teen artist for me has been to get experience at an early stage. I've got to know a lot of producers, songwriters, other artists and people in the music business. And with over 100 gigs, performances in TV shows and a lot of interviews, I feel professional and comfortable, though I am only 19.

The drawback of becoming famous in your teens is that it can be harder to do the transition of becoming a more adult artist. Because you have to change people's perception of who you already are.

SE!: You had, in our opinion, two excellent participations on Melodifestivalen. We absolutely love both of your songs which were part of it. How was your experience in the festival? What are your memories of it? Is it something you would consider trying again, in the future?

I: It was the scariest but best thing I have ever done. I learned a lot about being in the center of attention in an extreme way, having papers writing about me during a period with a lot of pressure and expectations. Right now, my focus isn't to be a part of Melodifestivalen again. But it's stupid to say never.

SE!: As we see it, you are a complete pop singer: you don't stick to only one kind of pop music. You try different subgenres, from ballads to electropop, exploring several possibilities pop can offer. How would you define your own music? And what other genres do you still plan to record?

I: I would define my music as urban pop. I am a big fan of modern R&B and hip-hop, which will be reflected in some of the songs I am gonna release from now on.

"I plan to be the next artist from Sweden breaking worldwide" (Picture: official Facebook page)

SE!: You come from one of the most important countries when it comes to pop music. How do you see the history and the current moment of Swedish pop? And how is it to develop your work in Sweden?

I: I only see benefits with coming from Sweden if you are aiming for an international career, which I am. We got both fans' and people in the music business's attention. I think that Max Martin, Avicii and Zara Larsson have proved what a talent from Sweden can accomplish. I plan to be the next artist from Sweden breaking worldwide.

SE!: Sweden is a country whose music usually crosses all borders. Therefore, most songs are recorded in English. Is it an established matter in the Swedish market, using English in pop songs? Would you consider recording singles in Swedish, or do you feel more comfortable in English?

I: Since my goal is to make it internationally, I have focused on writing and singing in English. But if you wanna grow big within the Swedish borders, I think it's a smart move to make music in Swedish. It's easier to make people connect with your music. I would love to release something in Swedish some time, maybe like a feature track with a Swedish rapper.

SE!: What are your professional projects for the near future? What can your fans expect from you?

I: I have been writing a lot of music over the past year, and my fans can definitely expect great releases during 2017 and 2018. It's a new, more grown-up ISA – more real, if you know what I mean. I am more excited than ever!

SE!: If you could choose anyone, who would be some Swedish and international artists you would like to collaborate with?

I: Man, it's hard to choose... But right now, I would love to work with Zara Larsson and Justin Timberlake.

SE!: We would like to finish this interview with a song of yours. What is your favorite song by ISA, and why?

I: Oh, my favorite song I have released is probably "Let it kill you". It gives me goosebumps every time I hear it and I get inspired by the lyrics. It's about believing in yourself, fighting for what you love. Even I need that pep talk sometimes.

Italy | Biagio Antonacci - "In mezzo al mondo"

BRAND NEW

Italian rock star Biagio Antonacci has recently released a brand new single. "In mezzo al mondo" is a perfect mixture of pop and rock combined in a power ballad driven by the beats of a piano. The result is very impressive!

Germany | Sebastian feat. ATMO music - "Vesmírná"

BRAND NEW

Meeting of stars in the Czech Republic! German-born singer Sebastian has gathered with ATMO music, rap and hip-hop duo from Liberec, to record and release a single. "Vesmírná" is an interesting pop song, with cool melody, wonderful vocal work and a very exciting chorus.

Ireland | Kodaline - "Ready to change"

BRAND NEW

Irish rock band Kodaline are back on track! The guys have recently released a new EP, "I wouldn't be", and are promoting it with the single "Ready to change". The song is a blend of the band's classic rock sounds with influences of current pop beats. How not to be hooked on this one?

Turkey | Ebru Yaşar - "Havadan sudan"

RECENT

Ebru Yaşar is a very popular Turkish singer, who was born in Ankara in 1978. Her single "Havadan sudan" is wonderful, and we can't get enough of it! It's an entertaining pop song with great ethnic elements.

France | Brigitte - "Palladium"

RECENT

French alternative pop duo Brigitte are back to Sounds European! with their newest release. "Palladium", a teaser of their upcoming new album, portrays a delicate melody which creates a beautiful atmosphere!

United Kingdom | Jessie Ware - "Alone"

BRAND NEW

British singer Jessie Ware is promoting her newest album, "Glasshouse". And her latest single is a fantastic way to do so! "Alone" is a heartbroken ballad with a fantastic R&B beat and a compelling chorus!

Ukraine | Sofia Yaremova - "Polovina"

BRAND NEW

Meet Sofia Yaremova, Ukrainian singer from Kiev. She has just released a new single, and it's an awesome one! "Polovina" is pop as it should be. It is that kind of song which sticks to the head after one single listen. And what a wonderful chorus it has!

Romania | BiBi - "Dansez cu inima ta"

RECENT

BiBi is the stage name of Bianca Mihaela Lixandru, a young Romanian singer born in 2002 in Bucharest. Her cheerful spirit is present in her most recent single: "Dansez cu inima ta" is an upbeat pop with a contagious melody which will keep you shaking your body from start to end!

Denmark | SIBA - "Clean break"

RECENT

SIBA is a Danish producer from Copenhagen. He has just released a new single, entitled "Clean break", and it's a true invitation to dance. It's a modern and captivating with a very smooth and effective melody.

Spain | Casasola - "Los puentes de Venecia"

RECENT

Edu Zorro, Dani Ceballos, Isra Arroyo, Antonio Gomez and Antonio López are Casasola, a Spanish rock band formed in the city of Córdoba in 2011. Their latest single is, simply put, amazing: "Los puentes de Venecia" brings the true power of Spanish rock right into our ears!

Latvia | Dana Sokolova - "Myslepad"

RECENT

Every new single by Latvian-born singer Dana Sokolova is a confirmation of how amazing her music is. We recently got amazed by "Myslepad", her most recent release. The song starts as a gentle ballad and evolves in a chorus full of raw and intense rock riffs.

North Macedonia | Simona Popovska - "Sama"

BRAND NEW

Sounds European! remeets Macedonian star Simona Popovska, who has just released an excellent new single. "Sama" is a wonderful ballad! It offers great melody, built by a very classy set of instrumentals. Simona's voice is, as usual, flawless, filling the song with a lot of emotion. We are truly in love with it!

Updated on April 6th, 2019, with the official video.

Romania | Mira - "Uit de tine"

RECENT

Maria Mirabela Cismaru is the real name of Mira, a Romanian singer hailing from the city of Târgu Jiu. Her most recent single is a treat: "Uit de tine" brings pop and R&B beats into a great ballad, which explodes in a compelling chorus.

United Kingdom | Anne-Marie - "Heavy"

BRAND NEW

British star Anne-Marie has just released a new single, and we love it to bits. "Heavy" is such a catchy song! It offers a delightful melody and an extremely effective chorus. Everything in it is built to deliver us the best that current pop music has to give.

Updated on November 26th, 2017, with the official video.

Russia | Vladimir Presnyakov - "Nezemnaya"

RECENT

Russian singer Vladimir Presnyakov is back on Sounds European! with a new single. "Nezemnaya" mingles captivating ethnic sounds and current electronic pop, creating a unique beat for a notable song.

Iceland | Birgir - "Can you feel it"

RECENT

Get ready to listen to an outstanding song coming from Iceland! Birgir never disappoints: single after single, he keeps proving he is one of the best names of the Icelandic music scene. What a solid pop-rock song "Can you feel it" is! Melody, instrumentals, voice, chorus... everything is excellent. We are totally addicted to it: it's our song of the week!

Italy | Elodie - "Semplice"

BRAND NEW

Italian singer Elodie is having a terrific 2017. She is now presenting us with the third single from her newest album, "Tutta colpa mia". The song is "Semplice", a grandiose ballad mixing contemporary beats and classic instruments.

Ukraine | Ani Lorak - "Novyy byvshiy"

BRAND NEW

Ukraine's diva Ani Lorak recently dropped a new single. "Novyy byvshiy" starts with intense piano and R&B beats, and then explodes in synth and electronic sounds, creating a unique mixture for a modern ballad.

Updated on February 11th, 2018, with the official video.

Germany | TIL - "Brand new life"

BRAND NEW

TIL are a German band from Wenden, consisting of Dennis (guitar and vocals), Eniz (bass and vocals) and Jona (drums). What a fun song their "Brand new life" is! Melody, vocals, chorus... everything helps building an irresistible song! It's impossible not to get fully captivated by it all.

United Kingdom | James Blunt - "Don't give me those eyes"

BRAND NEW

British singer James Blunt is on fire promoting his new album, "The afterlove". Here you have a new single coming out of it: "Don't give me those eyes " brings back the heartbroken, emotional James that conquered the world with straight-to-the-heart ballads!

Russia | Tina Karol - "Dikaya voda"

BRAND NEW

Russian-born singer Tina Karol returns to Sounds European! with an explosive new single. "Dikaya voda" is an envolving and contemporary ballad which arises emotions form the very first second.

Updated on April 22nd, 2019, with the official video.

Bosnia and Herzegovina | Džejla Ramović - "Potraži me"

BRAND NEW

Bosnian star Džejla Ramović is back with a new single, and it's a great one. "Potraži me" is a song with grower melody, which explodes in a very potent chorus. Her voice shines all over the entire track. It's so powerful!

Portugal | Rui Andrade - "Confia em mim"

RECENT

Born in Amarante, Portugal, in 1985, Rui Andrade is an actor and singer with an impressive curriculum. He released several singles and one album, and also took part in a large number of theatre plays. Listen to his most recent single: "Confia em mim" is a pop ballad with a marking beat and a captivarting chorus!

Romania | Ruby - "Adevar sau minciuna"

RECENT

Romanian singer Ruby's new single is out, and we are very excited about it. It's "Adevar sau minciuna", a well paced pop song with clear spices of summer sounds and melodic influences of reggae. It's so entertaining!

Belgium | Oscar And The Wolf - "Runaway"

BRAND NEW

Belgian artist Oscar And The Wolf is back to Sounds European! with a mysterious new single. "Runaway" (extracted from their new album, "Infinity") gives us a splash of indie and alternative sounds with a more movemented chorus. The result is captivating!

United Kingdom | Jasmine Thompson - "Words"

BRAND NEW

British teen star Jasmine Thompson has recently returned to the music scene with a new single. "Words", extracted from her EP "Wonderland", is a fresh dive into modern pop. The song is simply addictive!

Portugal | Amar Mais Agora - "Eu não sei"

BRAND NEW

It's time to remeet Portuguese duo Amar Mais Agora and listen to their new single "Eu não sei". We never get tired of highlighting: their mix of deep instrumentals and smooth vocals is awesome. It all works so well together! We love it.

Updated on July 5th, 2020, with the new stage name of the group.

France | Patrick Fiori - "Où je vis"

RECENT

French singer Patrick Fiori returns to Sounds European! with a lovely new single. "Où je vis" is a very sweet pop song, perfect for a relaxing moment with your favorite drink!

Denmark | L.I.G.A - "Du er ikke alene"

RECENT

Sounds European! remeets Danish band L.I.G.A and their great new single. "Du er ikke alene" (cover of Sebastian's 1978 hit) is a song with marvelous vocal performance, well-marked melody and a chorus which is quite captivating. The result is awesome!

Romania | Feli - "Acasa"

RECENT

Time for us to check upon Romanian singer Feli! She has recently dazzled us with her new single, "Acasa". The song is a fantastic mix of pop and R&B as you can only find in Romania.

United Kingdom | Ferris & Sylvester - "The room"

BRAND NEW

Ferris & Sylvester are a British folk duo formed in London by Issy Ferris and Archie Sylvester. Their music is an absolute delight, and proof of that is their most recent single: "The room" is a delicious folk-pop ballad which flows gently from the moment you press play.

Updated on October 27th, 2017, with the official video.

10 Questions For: Frida Sundemo

INTERVIEW

She is a complete artist. She is a musician, singer, songwriter and producer – and she is great in all of these functions! We had the opportunity of talking to one of the most talented and versatile names of the Swedish music scene. These are our 10 questions for Frida Sundemo:

Sounds European!: Let's begin this interview talking a bit about your background. How were your first encounters with music? And when did you realize it was more than just a hobby?

Frida Sundemo: I can't remember how it started really, it has been a natural part of my life since forever. Everyone in my family sings and plays instruments. But I do remember the longing feeling of wanting to learn to play the piano. I found it so beautiful. And that has always been the driving force for me when it comes to playing or creating music: the beauty of it.

Even though music was a huge part of my life growing up, I never thought that I would work with it professionally. I loved school, especially Math, Physics and Biology, and I wanted to become an engineer or a doctor (or a car designer). But after three and a half years of studying Medicine, I decided to take a break from it and work with music full time for a year or two. Two years turned into six, and I am still on that break – and I don't know exactly when I will go back to the studies. But I am sure I will do it one day. I refuse to think I couldn't do both things in this life!

SE!: You have been part of other stages of the music-making process, such as recording and production – which surely gives you a broader view and a deeper comprehension of how it all works, from scratch to release. Do you feel this additional experience affects the way you create your own music? And which of the stages is your favorite one, and why?

FS: Yeah, I am sure it does! For me, each and every part is important to the creative process. I love all of the steps, more or less, but my favorite thing is arranging the chords and harmonies. Writing lyrics has always been the most complicated part for me, but I think I am getting better and better at it. At least I prioritize the lyrics higher and higher.

SE!: You are also a multi-instrumentalist and a songwriter. What instruments do you play? And how is the process of songwriting for you? What inspires you to write? What do you want people to get from your lyrics?

FS: I actually identify myself more like a musician than a singer. My main instruments are piano, French horn and guitar. But I have also learned some trumpet, violin and bass. Depending on which instrument I am writing music on, different kinds of songs come out. That's pretty interesting, I think – and quite good to know, because when I feel like I am repeating myself songwriting-wise, I can take another instrument and something else will pop up naturally.

I find inspiration from anything, really. A good song, a conversation, feeling sad or happy, feeling bored, a film, a book and sometimes by just digging inside of me. I want people to feel comfort when they listen to my music. And to believe in the future. And sometimes just getting a chance to forget about reality for a second.

SE!: Your lyrics are one of several points which, in our opinion, make your music quite unique. But we would like to hear it from you. How would you describe your music, in genre and style? When you are preparing a new work, what do you intend people to perceive from your songs?

FS: I usually describe my music as electronic cinematic pop. I want the listeners to feel embedded in something calming and empowering. And I want the music to be powerful and cinematic, but without feeling impersonal or distant. Also, I want the music to feel easy to take in, but still to surprise the listener every now and then, not to be too predictable.

SE!: Your releases have been highly acclaimed by critics, not only in Sweden, but also internationally. How does it feel to have your work so well received? Also, your first album was released exclusively in Japan. What made you decide to focus on this market first?

FS: That has been amazing! I am deeply thankful for each and every positive comment about my songs, regardless of whether it is by a tastemaker or someone else. It's always super exciting to release a new song and realize that people actually listen to it and like it! It's almost surreal in a way, because, usually, you have been working on it for quite some time without showing it to anybody else.

On my first album, I collaborated with producer Rasmus Faber, who's had great success in Japan and Asia. He showed my album to his A&R [artists and repertoire] at his record label in Tokyo, and they wanted to release my music too! The album was supposed to be released in the rest of the world too, but just before I signed the deal over here, my Swedish A&R left the label and everything took too much time. Eventually, I had written so much new music, that I wanted to release the new ones instead.

"I have never written music for any specific audience; I create whatever I want to create and I hope that never changes"

SE!: You have just released your first international album. Can you tell us a bit about it? Was it any different to make music thinking on an international audience?

FS: I have never written music for any specific audience; I create whatever I want to create and I hope that never changes. My new album is called "Flashbacks & futures" and I am so excited to get it out there. I have found a lot of inspiration from sci-fi space movies and have been watching video clips of space in the studio when writing some of the music.

SE!: We know you are also an actress. Can you tell us a bit about your acting experience? Also, we can appreciate a very dramatic approach in all your video clips. How would you relate your music with your acting career?

FS: Haha, I love it every time someone calls me an actress, because that's not really how I see myself. But thank you! I was asked to audition for a part in a British film called "Kill your friends", which is based on a novel about the music industry in London in the '90s. I was playing a role that was very close to who I am in reality, which made it pretty uncomplicated. I loved every second of those weeks I got to be a part of that carousel. So many new experiences and worlds to explore! I can definitely feel that there are similarities between acting and being on stage, since performing music is some kind of acting.

SE!: What are your plans for the near future? What can your fans expect from you?

FS: I am in the middle of promoting my album, and I hope I will be able to perform around the world this following year. I am also working on new music, as always.

SE!: If you could choose anyone, who would be some Swedish and international artists you would like to collaborate with?

FS: One Swedish artist I wanted to collaborate with for many years now is Loney Dear, and fact is that dream just came true! I am doing a cover of his song "Violent" on my album and he's featuring on it!

Internationally, I would love to collaborate with Hans Zimmer. That would be amazing.

SE!: We would like to finish this interview with a song of yours. What is your favorite song by Frida Sundemo, and why?

FS: I could never pick one, I'm sorry. But one that means a lot to me is "For you, love".

This song doesn't have an official video on YouTube, but you can listen to it on Spotify.

United Kingdom | Tom Walker - "Heartland"

BRAND NEW

Hailing from Manchester with Scottish origins, Tom Walker is gaining ground as one of the upcoming artists to keep an eye on. His most recent single will show you why: "Heartland" mixes rock, pop and R&B, and the powerful vocal performance of Tom makes the song an absolute delight!

Greece | Sakis Arseniou - "Kokkina fanaria"

BRAND NEW

Greek singer Sakis Arseniou has just released a new single, and it's totally a must-listen! It's entitled "Kokkina fanaria", and it's a well-paced pop song with an involving melody and a very memorable chorus.

Ireland | Wild Youth - "Lose control"

RECENT

Time for us to check on Irish band Wild Youth! They are presenting us their second single, "Lose control", a song that leans more to pop beats but retains the characteristic atmosphere of Irish rock songs.

Netherlands | André Hazes - "Wie kan mij vertellen"

RECENT

Dutch star André Hazes (formerly known as André Hazes Jr.) has a new single on offer, and we are totally into it! "Wie kan mij vertellen" is a song which starts slow and smooth, but ends up becoming a total schlager party. It's irresistible!

Italy | Thomas - "È un attimo"

BRAND NEW

Italian teen star Thomas is having a tremendous start of career. After his first single, "Normalità", it's time to present his newest release. "È un attimo" is a fantastic pop which includes a very catchy base and entertaining synth beats.

Turkey | Demet Akalın - "Damga damga"

BRAND NEW

Turkish singer Demet Akalın returns to Sounds European! with a fabulous new single. "Damga damga" is a fantastic pop banger: it mixes an emotional vocal performance with a very danceable beat!

France | Kyo - "Ton mec"

BRAND NEW

Look who is finally back! French band Kyo have just released a new single. And they are ready to show they can mix it up: they are betting on adding clearer electronic beats to their music, specially on the chorus. The result is quite interesting!

Updated on November 4th, 2017, with the official video.

Finland | Poets of the Fall - "Moonlight kissed"

BRAND NEW

Poets of the Fall is an alternative rock band formed in Helsinki in 2003. Their career spans seven studio albums, all of them reaching the top 3 in the Finnish charts. Check out their most recent single: "Moonlight kissed" is a beautiful ballad which blends a piano base with delicate strings.

United Kingdom | Rews - "Shine"

RECENT

It's time to remeet British duo Rews, with their awesome new single. It's entitled "Shine", and it's ready to blow your mind! They surely know how to take power and intensity to a new level with their music. We love it!

Germany | Felix Jaehn feat. Hearts & Colors and Adam Trigger - "Like a riddle"

BRAND NEW

German DJ and producer Felix Jaehn gathered with Swedish duo Hearts & Colors and French producer Adam Trigger in "Like a riddle". The mixture is simply amazing: a contagious beat, amazing vocal performance and an overall great dancefloor anthem will really captivate you!

Finland | The Rasmus - "Wonderman"

BRAND NEW

Finnish rock band The Rasmus is enjoying a fantastic comeback to the music business. Their new album, "Dark matters", is making headlines worldwide, and they have recently released a new single from it. "Wonderman" mixes intense rock beats with emotional lyrics, creating a fantastic rock ballad. The song is also the theme song from the movie "Rendel".

Ukraine | Elka - "Mir otkryvayetsya"

BRAND NEW

Sounds European! remeets Ukrainian singer Elka and her new single. "Mir otkryvayetsya" is such a good song! You can feel Elka's signature all over the track. Its light and marking beats allow her smooth and beautiful voice to flow, and fill it all with a very unique quality.

Updated on November 27th, 2017, with the official video.

United Kingdom | Firewoodisland - "Dearest brother"

BRAND NEW

Stian Vedøy, Abi Eleri Vedøy, Stephen Allen and Dylan Jones are Firewoodisland, a band formed in Bristol. Their most recent single is "Dearest brother", a soft folk-infused ballad which will directly take you back to the best memories of classic rock ballads from the '70s.

Updated on October 26th, 2017, with the official video.

Turkey | Rita Mahrani - "Sana mı kaldım"

RECENT

Rita Mahrani is a Turkish singer from Istanbul. We can't stop listening to her single "Sana mı kaldım", and we are sure it'll have the same effect on you! Its melody is as addictive as one can be, and the Turkish elements it offers are a great complement to it all.

France | Royaume - "If we"

BRAND NEW

Royaume is a duo formed in Paris by Yumi and Moonboy. Their most recent single is "If we", a very contemporary pop with marking R&B beats and a soft electronic influence.

Italy | Michele Bravi - "Diamanti"

BRAND NEW

It's time to listen to excellent music: Italian super star Michele Bravi has just released a new single. Michele is clearly developing a very unique style to his work. And "Diamanti" is a great sample of that. We are fully in love with it! Melody and chorus are in a very high level, and we can't get them out of our heads! It's highly addictive: it's our song of the week.

Hungary | Freddie - "Nincsen holnap"

BRAND NEW

Hungarian singer Freddie is back to our site with his most recent single. We are talking about "Nincsen holnap", a pop-rock song driven by the riff of a guitar which, as its video suggests, is a great soundtrack for roadtrips!

United Kingdom | Tom Grennan - "Royal highness"

BRAND NEW

British singer Tom Grennan has just released a new single, and we can't stress enough: he only knows how to make great music! Once again, we are fully thrilled by a song of his – this time, "Royal highness". Its melody takes the listener on a personal trip. It's so entertaining!

Belarus | Veronika Tsubikova - "Byvshim"

RECENT

Veronika Tsubikova is a singer and model who was born in Minsk in 1997. Her most recent single is a fantastic sample of the great electronic pop one can find in the former Soviet countries. "Byvshim" is compelling from start to end, and has a chorus to catch you instantly!

Germany | Despina Vandi - "O, ti thes gennietai tora"

RECENT

German-born Greek star Despina Vandi has just released an awesome new single, entitled "O, ti thes gennietai tora". What a fun song it is! It offers an entertaining melody and an extremely captivating chorus. It sticks to the head after the very first listen!

France | Ofenbach feat. Nick Waterhouse - "Katchi"

BRAND NEW

French DJ and producer duo Ofenbach are back to our site with a very unique new single. "Katchi" features American jazz and soul artist Nick Waterhouse. The sounds and influences of both create an exhilarating melody!

Albania | Erik Lloshi - "Afer vetes"

BRAND NEW

Erik Lloshi is an Albanian singer who was born in Lushnjë in 1989. He has just released "Afer vetes", a fresh song whose summer vibes in the instrumentals are set to entertain you. The chorus works very well with it all!

United Kingdom | Dan Owen - "Hideaway"

BRAND NEW

British singer Dan Owen is back with a marking new single. "Hideaway" explores a deeper, more atmospheric mix of alternative sounds and rock, all wrapped up in a very interesting folkloric vibe. Dan's voice helps creating goosebumps throughout!

Updated on November 5th, 2017, with the official video.

Estonia | Ines - "Vii mind vii"

RECENT

Sounds European! remeets Estonian star Ines, with her new single. "Vii mind vii" is a very fresh pop-rock song. Its melody is quite enjoyable, and the chorus offers a unique mix: it manages being strong and soft at the same time. We love it!

Denmark | Basim feat. Gilli - "Comme ci comme ça"

BRAND NEW

Two very popular names within the Danish music scene gathered for a single together. And the result is amazing! We are talking about Basim and Gilli, who released "Comme ci comme ça". The song is a fresh mixture of electronic beats and pop.

Italy | Gianna Nannini - "Fenomenale"

BRAND NEW

Ladies and gentlemen, Italian super diva Gianna Nannini is back. And what a song does she have on offer! "Fenomenale" is simply wonderful. Gianna has a unique voice, and it makes any song unique. We are breathless!

Sweden | Darin - "Tvillingen"

BRAND NEW

Swedish singer Darin returns to our site with a fabulous new single. "Tvillingen" is an uptempo pop that brings good vibes from the very first second. The chorus will surely have you dancing along!

Denmark | Sune Feld - "Win before we lose"

RECENT

Sune Feld is a Danish singer, songwriter, producer and musician. He has just released a new single, and we are totally addicted to it! "Win before we lose" is an involving song, which offers a deep and mysterious ambience. It's highly catchy!

United Kingdom | Catherine McGrath - "Talk of this town"

BRAND NEW

British singer Catherine McGrath returns to our site with a grandiose pop. "Talk of this town" has a marked influence of country music, making it stand out in the current British pop scene. By the chorus, you will be hooked and singing it out loud!

Lithuania | Monika Linkytė - "Gal tai meilė?"

RECENT

It's time to remeet Lithuanian star Monika Linkytė and her new single. "Gal tai meilė?" is a guitar-based song with cute melody and a wonderful vocal performance by Monika. It's impossible to listen without falling in love with its sweetness!

Slovenia | Manca Špik feat. Poskočni - "Prijatelj"

BRAND NEW

Slovene singer Manca Špik (born in Kranj in 1980) has recently gathered with Poskočni (a five-piece band formed in the city of Slovenska Bistrica) to release a great folkloric pop. "Prijatelj" brings a fantastic melody, an explosion of sounds that will have you dancing in a heartbeat!

10 Questions For: Emma Bale

INTERVIEW

Sounds European! is proud to present an awesome interview with one of the most talented singers of Belgium. One of her singles was listed by us as one of the 50 best songs of 2016. And she was as sweet as her voice is in her music: the conversation was absolutely delightful! These are our 10 questions for Emma Bale:

Sounds European!: Let's start this talk with looking back on the past. What artists did you use to listen when you were growing up? Who were your musical inspirations? At what age did you start singing? And when did it go from a hobby to your profession?

Emma Bale: There were many artists that I listened to, and that inspired me. I grew up listening to Rihanna, Beyoncé – for me, they were the queens – and Michael Jackson. I think they influenced my childhood, they were my biggest influences when I was a kid.

Singing has actually always been there, for me, but I have never thought about it, because it was all so natural. There's this one memory that I have, when I turned five, my grandmother gave me this microphone, a toy, with effects on it. She gave me that, and I used to perform in front of my family, at Christmas parties, and it has never stopped. Then, when I turned 14, I participated at a singing competition, and that's where it all started.

SE!: You took part of The Voice Kids in Flanders. What can you tell us of your experience in the show? What lessons did you learn from that period? Last year, a kid sang your song "Run" during the blind auditions. How does it feel to go from a participant of the show, to an artist children are inspired by?

EB: I was quite nervous about it, because it was the first time I really got to participate – the previous years, I had applied for auditions, but I never got a response. Then that time, I got to participate, and it was the first time that I sang on a huge stage, so it was exciting and overwhelming. I just loved to work with everyone, and all the other kids were so talented. It's an experience I'll never forget.

During the show, I got to know myself better. When I was singing on that stage, I really knew that was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life. I didn't care about winning. When we were practicing, it all felt so magical, to sing with other people and share that experience. I felt so happy! For me, it just meant it was something I wanted to do for the rest of my life – so I never stopped, I simply continued, even after I got out of the competition.

[Watching the girl singing "Run" during the blind auditions,] I felt like the circle was complete. It was weird, cool and bizarre, at the same time. I didn't know what to think, it was so strange. It was my song, and I used to stand there, on that stage, with shaking knees... I was very happy I inspired this kid, because that meant I was standing where I always wanted to be.

SE!: Your songs have already reached millions and millions of streams, besides charting in both regions of Belgium, Flanders and Wallonia, plus the Netherlands. How do you feel when you see people are enjoying your music so much, and your songs are often playing on the radios?

EB: When my songs play on the radio, it feels like I am the one playing them. It feels like I am listening to my demos, or something like that. I think it's super unreal! I am very happy people like my music. But I get shy, I can't really find words to express how I feel about it.

SE!: And your success is not limited only to the audience. You are also critically acclaimed. You are the youngest ever winner of MIA (Music Industry Awards), and you won the MTV Europe Music Awards for best Belgian act in 2016. And you are only 18 years old! How do you face all this success, at such a young age?

EB: I try to stay with my feet on the ground. My parents help me, and I surround myself with good people who support me. It's important to keep being who you have always been – there is no reason to change, because people like you for what you do, and if you changed that, maybe people wouldn't like you anymore. So I think it's important to stay who you are, with your feet on the ground, and be realistic about everything. One day, my career can be over. I just need to think about everything and realize I am very lucky for being able to do what I do.

SE!: You said, during an interview for the TV show Van Gils & Gasten (and you have just said it again to us, now), that you think about the possibility of your career failing, at a point – and you want to study, to have a plan B to your music career. Do you really worry your music career may still fail? Are you finding time to study? And what do you dream of studying?

EB: Yes, because I have seen it with a lot of artists. One day, they have a huge hit; the other day, no one knows them anymore. I worry about it, but it's not like it's always in my head or something. I just need to think it can happen from one day to another. No one can predict what is going to happen in music, so that's why I want something, a leap of faith, I can fall into if things go wrong. But I hope that won't happen!

I am about to study this year. I am going to study Communication Science. I chose it because it's a very general subject. I am already doing what I want to do, so I thought of something I could use in my music and life. It's interesting: it contains Politics, Sociology, Philosophy and Languages, so I think it's a good subject for me.

"I just need to think about everything and realize I am very lucky for being able to do what I do" (Picture: official Facebook page)

SE!: Belgium offers a very unique situation, musically speaking. You have Flanders and Wallonia, two regions with different cultures and tastes in music. But you manage to be successful in both regions, and with pop music (even though local charts have a lot of electronic music). How do you see the Belgian music scene? And what challenges did you face to find your space in it?

EB: It's true there is a lot of electronic music here. About Belgium being divided in two regions, it's both an advantage and a disadvantage. If they wouldn't be separated, it would be easier, because there would be more people to reach. As it is, you have to do promo in the Flemish part of Belgium, and then you have to do promo in the French part of Belgium. But I think it's interesting!

To be successful, you need to be out there and release a lot of music. But I don't really have the key to success. I am just letting my heart speak and do whatever it thinks it's good, whatever I like. So I am quite lucky people like it too!

SE!: You record your songs in English. And that is a very common choice for Belgian artists. Do you feel that, since your country is divided between Dutch-speaking and French-speaking people, English is a simpler choice? And why did you, specifically, choose English?

EB: In fact, I have never thought about it, because it has always felt natural to sing in English. But, now that you say it, it's actually a very smart choice!

SE!: What are your professional projects for the near future? What can your fans expect? And what do you still dream of achieving in your career?

EB: I have been busy writing new songs and going to the studio. I am recording a new EP, and that should be released in the end of November, I think. So that's what they can expect: new music! And I am also focusing on my very own concerts, because I have always been the supporting act for other people, and now I get to do my own shows – and that's quite exciting.

There is still a lot I dream of achieving. I would love to be able to perform in other countries, perform in huge festivals, like Glastonbury and Lollapalooza. There is a lot I dream of! It would be nice if my music spread all over the world – but I am starting in Belgium, and we'll see where it goes.

SE!: You said you worked in concerts, opening shows for other people. You also released songs with other artists, such as Milow. Can you name some of the people you worked with? And if you could choose anyone, who would be some other Belgian and international artists you would like to collaborate with?

EB: I worked with Lost Frequencies, he remixed my song "Run". I have worked with Milow. I have been the supporting act for Lena – that was quite fun, too – and some other Flemish artists, who are quite big in the region.

If I could pick one artist all over the world, I think it would be Florence Welch, of Florence + The Machine, I absolutely love her. From Belgium, I would love to work with Oscar And The Wolf, maybe.

SE!: We would like to finish this interview with a song of yours. What is your favorite song by Emma Bale, and why?

EB: I think it's "Curaçao". I love singing the song, and I love to see people's reactions to it. It just has a special meaning. I love the song very much, I love the melody, I love everything about it! We worked so, so hard to make it – we restarted it over and over again. It wasn't perfect, and we worked until it was perfect. So I think that's why: because we worked so hard on it. I am super glad that I could do everything my own way, and I got to choose everything until it was perfect for me, so that's why.