Odds are you didn’t realize Sweden is so musically pervasive. Case in point: In May 2012, half of the top 10 songs on Billboard’s Top 100 were written or produced by Swedes. You probably knew Abba was Swedish, and maybe Rednex (remember Cotton-eyed Joe?”). And if you are a little bit more of a music buff you’ll know that Avicii, Ace of Base, the Cardigans, Eric Prydz, the Hives, Robyn, Icona Pop … the list goes on … are all Swedish. And, of course, Swedish House Mafia.
Here are five songs by Swedes to get you in a Scandinavian mood.
Hooked on a Feeling by Blue Swede
Ooga-chaka, ooga-ooga, ooga-chaka. ‘Nuff said.
Push Play by Miriam Bryant
Hop on the Gothenburg-born Miriam Bryant train now, ‘cause she is on her way up.
Emmylou by First Aid Kit
If you like your Swedish groups alt-country, First Aid Kit is for you. The sisters’ song is a nostalgic, lovesick track with a number of references to country music legends. Oh, and a touch of Stockholm.
Never Gonna Love Again by Lykki Li
The latest single from Lykki Li is a haunting indie-pop song that will leave you longing from the rainy streets of Stockholm.
Monkey Boogie by Millencolin
No Swedish playlist without this ska-punk band from the ‘90s would be complete. If you have ever touched a skateboard in your life, you probably already know Millencolin. If not, this energetic track will have you bouncing along as you step off the plane ready to explore Sweden.
Read This Next
Under $100: Stockholm
Europe
Mar 7, 2015#TrazeeTravel
Insta FeedSurveys
Oct 28, 2026Study Finds Younger Travelers Skeptical of AI Travel Planning
A new study from Squaremouth, a travel insurance marketplace, finds younger travelers are skeptical of using AI for travel planning. However, AI usage for travel planning is increasing overall.
Sponsored Content
Taiwan: Whatever Your Pleasure
Taiwan’s wealth of offerings ensures travelers find destinations, activities and amenities to suit all interests.
Destinations / North America
Oct 28, 2026How Athens, Georgia, Became a Year-Round Hockey Destination
Athens, Georgia, may be best known in the sports world as a football destination for the successful Georgia Bulldogs (and they do, of course, deserve recognition), but did you know Athens is also one of the South’s newest and unexpected hockey towns?
Destinations / North America
Oct 27, 2026Kalahari Resorts Opens Massive Expansion, Industry First in Wisconsin
Earlier this month, Kalahari Resorts & Conventions opened a 75,000-square-foot, $85 million expansion in Wisconsin. The new Aquadome expansion is part of the brand’s Wisconsin Dells flagship resort.
Sponsored Content
Extraordinary Moments, Made to Keep
The Excellence Collection offers a curated collection of luxurious resorts across Mexico and the Caribbean, promising exceptional experiences for every guest and taste. From upscale suite concepts to a plethora of gourmet dining options, from wellness experiences to curated activities, The Excellence Collection guarantees all this and more.
Hotel
Oct 27, 2026Experience New York City in True V.I.P. Fashion at This Hotel
Travelers looking to experience the glitz and glamour of old-school Manhattan will want to look to Hotel Seville NoMad and its just launched Gilded Getaway package.
ShareThis