Music is to Sweden as apple pie is to the U.S. of A.

Since the 1970’s, Sweden has had some amazing artists who have not only crushed it in regards to record sales worldwide, but have also been the pioneer to what modern pop music is today. One name rings out above the rest – ABBA. Yep, the best-selling group right on the coat-tails of the Beatles in regards to record sales. But it doesn’t just stop there. Other notable artists between them and present day include Roxette,  Ace of Base, The Cardigans, Neneh Cherry and Yngwie Malmsteen.

In 2013, Sweden was ranked as the third largest exporter in the world of… you guessed it, MUSIC. Now, whether or not that statistic holds true in 2017, I am not quite sure, but one thing I AM sure of is that they are continuing to pump out some fantastic music even now. Below we picked several of our current favorites – a lot of pop yes, but some other genre gems as well.

Lykke Li

When you want indie goodness that hits you straight in the feels

Sahara Hotnights

When you need to kick it up a notch with some girl band fever

Tove Lo

When you want raw pop, this sex kitten is all things provocative and all things catchy – in one package. Meow.

Zara Larsson

When you want more than just a pretty face, but also a pretty voice to kick your pop into gear

Thomas Lundell

When you had no idea where this guy was hiding all your life *drools*

Tallest Man On Earth

When you crave the folk goodness in the likes of Sufjan Stevens or Neil Young

First Aid Kit

When you had no idea that Swedes appreciate country as much as you do and actually make a country legend cry while performing

Say Lou Lou

When you love the whole “we’re pretty twins who happen to create amazing music” thing

Icona Pop

When you want to straight-up party like a rockstar and shake your booty

Adjö!