Ten of the Best from Swedish Artists

1. ABBA

ABBA, formed in 1972, consists of Agnetha Fältskog, Björn Ulvaeus, Benny Andersson, and Anni-Frid Lyngstad. They gained international fame after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1974 with “Waterloo.” Known for their catchy melodies and harmonies, ABBA produced numerous hits such as “Dancing Queen,” “Mamma Mia,” and “Take a Chance on Me.”

Their best-selling album, “ABBA Gold,” features many of these classics and has sold over 30 million copies worldwide. ABBA’s music has left a lasting impact on pop music and continues to influence artists globally. Their successful musical “Mamma Mia!” and its subsequent film adaptations have further solidified their legacy in popular culture. ABBA has sold over 385 million records worldwide, making them one of the best-selling music artists.

Click here to purchase ABBA Gold

2. Roxette

Roxette, formed in 1986, consists of Marie Fredriksson and Per Gessle. They rose to fame in the late 1980s with global hits like “The Look,” “Listen to Your Heart,” and “It Must Have Been Love.” Their breakthrough album “Look Sharp!” released in 1988 became a massive success, selling over 10 million copies worldwide. Roxette’s music is characterized by catchy melodies and powerful vocals, contributing to their international acclaim. They continued to produce hits throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, maintaining a strong presence on the charts.

Despite Marie Fredriksson’s passing in 2019, Roxette’s legacy remains influential in pop and rock music. Their combined sales exceed 75 million records globally, solidifying their status as one of Sweden’s most successful musical exports.

Click here to purchase Look Sharp

3. Ace of Base

Ace of Base, formed in 1990, and achieved global success with their debut album “Happy Nation” (also known as “The Sign”). Their distinctive sound, blending pop with reggae and dance influences, propelled hits like “All That She Wants,” “The Sign,” and “Don’t Turn Around” to the top of charts worldwide. Known for catchy hooks and memorable melodies, Ace of Base sold over 50 million records, establishing themselves as one of the best-selling pop acts of the 1990s.

Their music continues to resonate with audiences, reflecting themes of love, relationships, and optimism. Despite lineup changes over the years, Ace of Base’s impact on pop music endures, cementing their place in music history as pioneers.

Click here to purchase The Sign

4. Avicii

Avicii, born Tim Bergling, was a DJ, producer, and songwriter who rose to fame in the electronic dance music (EDM) scene. Known for his melodic and uplifting tracks, Avicii achieved global success with hits like “Wake Me Up,” “Levels,” and “Hey Brother.” His debut album “True,” released in 2013, showcased his blend of EDM with folk influences, earning critical acclaim and commercial success.

Avicii’s music resonated with millions worldwide, defining a generation of EDM enthusiasts. Tragically, he passed away in 2018, leaving a legacy of innovation and musical impact. His influence continues to shape the EDM landscape, inspiring new generations of artists and fans alike.

Click here to purchase True

5. Europe

Europe, formed in 1979, and gained international fame in the 1980s with their hit song “The Final Countdown.” Known for their energetic performances and melodic rock sound, Europe released their third studio album, also titled “The Final Countdown,” in 1986. This album became their most successful, selling over 15 million copies worldwide and solidifying their place in rock music history. Europe’s music is characterized by powerful vocals, catchy guitar riffs, and anthemic choruses, appealing to a broad audience.

Although they disbanded in the early 1990s, Europe reunited in 2003 and continues to tour and release new music, maintaining a dedicated fan base globally. Their impact on the rock genre and their enduring popularity make Europe one of Sweden’s most iconic rock bands.

Click here to purchase The Final Countdown

6. The Cardigans

The Cardigans, formed in 1992, and achieved international success with their blend of pop, rock, and indie influences. Their breakthrough album “First Band on the Moon,” released in 1996, featured the hit single “Lovefool,” which propelled them to fame. Known for Nina Persson’s distinctive vocals and their melodic sound. The Cardigans continued to produce popular albums like “Gran Turismo” and “Long Gone Before Daylight.” With over 15 million albums sold worldwide,

The Cardigans remain influential in alternative pop music. Despite a hiatus in the mid-2000s, the band’s legacy endures through their timeless hits and ongoing influence on contemporary artists.

Click here to purchase First Band on the Moon

7. Swedish House Mafia

Swedish House Mafia, a prominent electronic dance music (EDM) trio formed in 2008, gained global recognition for their energetic performances and chart-topping tracks. Comprising Axwell, Steve Angello, and Sebastian Ingrosso, they produced hits like “Don’t You Worry Child,” “Save the World,” and “Greyhound.” Their dynamic fusion of house music with anthemic melodies and progressive beats reshaped the EDM landscape.

The trio’s impact extended beyond their music, influencing the culture and production of electronic music festivals worldwide. Although they disbanded in 2013, Swedish House Mafia reunited in 2018 and continue to headline major festivals. Their legacy is marked by sold-out shows and collaborations with top artists, maintaining their status as EDM pioneers.

Click here to purchase Paradise Again

8. Zara Larsson

Zara Larsson, rose to fame with her powerful vocals and infectious melodies. She gained international recognition with hits like “Lush Life,” “Never Forget You,” and “Symphony.” Zara’s debut international album, “So Good,” released in 2017, showcased her versatile talent and featured collaborations with prominent artists. Known for her bold lyrics and contemporary sound, Zara has amassed a global fanbase and earned multiple awards, including MTV Europe Music Awards and Swedish Grammy Awards.

Beyond her music, Zara is a vocal advocate for social issues, using her platform to promote gender equality and LGBTQ+ rights. Her ongoing success and influence in pop music continue to solidify her as one of Sweden’s most celebrated artists.

Click here to purchase So Good

9. Robyn

Robyn, pop singer-songwriter, has left an indelible mark on the music industry with her innovative sound and introspective lyrics. Rising to prominence in the 1990s, Robyn gained international acclaim with hits like “Show Me Love” and “Do You Know (What It Takes).” Her self-titled album “Robyn” (2005) marked an evolution in her music, blending electronic beats with heartfelt storytelling. Known for her distinctive voice and genre-defying style,

Robyn continued to push boundaries with albums like “Body Talk” (2010), which featured the critically acclaimed single “Dancing On My Own.” Over her career, she has received numerous accolades, including Grammy nominations and Swedish Grammy Awards, solidifying her status as an influential figure in pop and electronic music.

Click here to purchase Robyn

10. A*Teens

A*Teens, formed in 1998, gained international popularity with their upbeat covers of ABBA songs, including “Mamma Mia” and “Dancing Queen.” Their fresh take on ABBA’s classics appealed to a new generation of listeners, blending pop and dance elements. ATeens’ debut album, “The ABBA Generation” (1999), became their most successful, selling over 6 million copies worldwide.

Known for their energetic performances and youthful appeal, the group continued to release albums like “Teen Spirit” (2001) and “New Arrival” (2003). A*Teens disbanded in 2004, but their legacy as a tribute band to ABBA and their impact on pop music during the late 1990s and early 2000s remain notable.

Click here to purchase the Abba Generation