The Haunting Melody of Norway’s Anthem and the Singer Who Made It Go Viral
A national anthem isn’t usually the kind of track that tops trending charts or floods social media feeds. Yet, in a captivating turn of events, Norway’s national anthem, “Ja, vi elsker dette landet” (Yes, we love this country), has found itself in the global spotlight. The reason? A breathtaking performance by Norwegian pop sensation Astrid S.
The obsession reached a fever pitch following Astrid S’s ethereal rendition of the anthem at the opening game of the UEFA Women’s Euro 2025. Her performance, described by many as hauntingly beautiful and atmospheric, quickly spread across platforms like TikTok and YouTube. Social media users were mesmerized by her delicate yet powerful vocals and the stirring arrangement, which lent a cinematic, almost mythical quality to the historic song.
Comments and posts have poured in from around the world, with many admitting they had never heard the Norwegian anthem before but were now captivated by its melody. The performance has drawn comparisons to a movie score, with its ability to evoke a sense of profound emotion and national pride, even in those with no connection to Norway.
Who is Astrid S?
For those just discovering her, Astrid S (born Astrid Smeplass) is no newcomer to the music scene. The 28-year-old singer-songwriter first gained prominence in her home country as a contestant on the Norwegian version of “Pop Idol” in 2013. Since then, she has built a successful international career, known for her distinctive brand of electropop.
With a string of hit singles like “Hurts So Good,” “Think Before I Talk,” and “Emotion,” and a dedicated global fanbase, Astrid S has become one of Norway’s most prominent musical exports. Her debut album, “Leave It Beautiful,” was released in 2020, further solidifying her status as a pop powerhouse. She has also collaborated with a variety of international artists and has toured extensively.
This recent viral moment, however, has introduced her to an even wider audience, showcasing a different facet of her artistry and her deep connection to her Norwegian roots.
The widespread fascination with her performance underscores the power of a single, moving interpretation to breathe new life into a traditional piece and capture the imagination of a global audience, proving that a national anthem, in the right hands, can be a truly transcendent piece of music.