Laufey – Press Photos by Gemma WarrenIn 2023, Laufey captivated the music scene with her groundbreaking debut album “Bewitched”. As well as shattering records, her debut album marked the biggest-ever debut for a jazz album on Spotify and a Grammy for the Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album – a category previously dominated by the American Jazz-icon, Tony Bennett. The article is taken from our new digital issue.
Now based in Los Angeles, but having grown up in Reykjavík, Laufey’s multicultural upbringing significantly shapes her music, effortlessly blending classical, jazz, and pop elements into a unique sonic tapestry.
“I learned classical cello and piano across China and Iceland, teaching me not to fear mixing cultures and disciplines,” Laufey told KALTBLUT. Her move to the US further expanded her musical horizons. “The U.S. is a melting pot of cultures and music. Moving here taught me to be more daring with my musical choices,” she reflects. Embracing modern platforms, Laufey sees TikTok as a creative arena: “It’s a fun space to test melodic ideas. It can provide fuel for me to finish a song.” Laufey’s music resonates with Gen-Z, a generation dismantling artistic boundaries, “because it shares a vibe rather than a strict genre.”
Drawing from both classical and jazz influences, the singer finds inspiration in composers like Ravel and jazz legends like Bill Evans. “Unexpected chord progressions fuel my soul,” she added. Her success has also gained her a comparison to Taylor Swift, with The Telegraph having called her “Jazz’s answer to Taylor Swift”. This comparison honours the singer-songwriter, as she calls herself a huge Taylor Swift fan. And, who wouldn’t want to be compared to the biggest pop star at the moment?
In late February, Laufey performed in Berlin at Astra Kulturhaus as part of her tour. The crowd was a cute mixture of Gen-Z, who either took their boyfriends or their friends to the show. Knowing every song off by heart, they sang along, told the singer how much they loved her in between songs and screamed their hearts out when her twin sister, Junia, joined her on stage. The setting was romantic, just like Laufey’s music. To the question, what her favourite moment at the show was, she said: “One of the most iconic classical musicians of our time was in the audience. Meeting with an idol was such a privilege.”
Touring takes a toll on everybody, though, which is why maintaining a healthy lifestyle is crucial for Laufey. “I try to stick to a consistent diet and explore cities I visit before sound check to stay active.” Besides staying active on tour, social media also plays a big part in her life and career. “Whenever I go on social media, it feels like I’m interacting with friends instead of fans,” she said.
With her diverse background, fearless creativity, and genuine connection to her audience, Laufey is not just making music – she’s forging a new path in the industry.
Follow @laufey on Instagram to keep up with her upcoming projects, releases and shows.
All photos by @gemmadwarren
Laufey’s album “Bewitched: The Goddess Edition” has been released on April 26th via AWAL. It features four brand new original songs that Laufey wrote in 2023 during the final stages of refining her critically acclaimed album “Bewitched.” Stream the album here.
