Aurora

Aurora is a celebrated Norwegian singer, songwriter, and record producer hailing from Stavanger, Norway. Since her debut in 2012, Aurora Aksnes has captivated audiences worldwide with her ethereal vocals and a unique blend of art pop, Nordic folk, synth-pop, and electropop. With over five studio albums, including the critically acclaimed All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend and the forthcoming What Happened to the Heart?, Aurora has established herself as a prominent figure in the modern music landscape.

Early Life and Musical Beginnings (1996–2012)

Aurora was born on June 15, 1996, in Stavanger, Norway, and raised in the serene landscapes of Høle and Os. From a young age, she immersed herself in nature, which profoundly influenced her artistic vision and musical style. Aurora began writing songs and learning to dance at the age of six, inspired by artists like Leonard Cohen, Bob Dylan, and Björk. Her early exposure to music and her innate creativity led her to experiment with various instruments, primarily the piano, before incorporating percussion and other production elements into her work.

Rise to Prominence (2012–2016)

In 2012, Aurora released her debut single “Puppet” under her birth name, Adam Goren. Her breakthrough came with the release of her second single “Awakening” in March 2014, followed by “Under Stars” later that year under the stage name Aurora. Her hit single “Runaway,” released in February 2015, garnered international attention and was praised by artists like Katy Perry and Troye Sivan. Her debut studio album, All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend (2016), received widespread acclaim, earning platinum status in Norway and charting across Europe.

Artistic Evolution and Continued Success (2017–Present)

Aurora continued to evolve her sound with the release of Infections of a Different Kind (Step 1) (2018) and A Different Kind of Human (Step 2) (2019), which explored deeper themes of politics and sexuality. Her collaboration with Hans Zimmer on the Frozen Planet II soundtrack and performances at prestigious events like the Royal Albert Hall highlighted her versatility and global appeal. In 2022, she released The Gods We Can Touch, followed by her latest album What Happened to the Heart? in June 2024, which she describes as her most personal and cathartic work to date.

Musical Style and Themes

Aurora’s music is characterized by its ethereal vocals and a harmonious blend of art pop, Nordic folk, synth-pop, and electropop. Her lyrical content often delves into introspective and emotional themes, presenting them with a poetic and philosophical touch. Aurora’s ability to intertwine personal experiences with broader social and environmental issues has resonated with a diverse audience, establishing her as a voice of her generation.

Discography

Studio Albums

• All My Demons Greeting Me as a Friend (2016)
• Infections of a Different Kind (Step 1) (2018)
• A Different Kind of Human (Step 2) (2019)
• The Gods We Can Touch (2022)
• What Happened to the Heart? (2024)

EPs

• Running with the Wolves (2015)
• Watching the Horizon (2009)

Band Members

Current Members

• Aurora Aksnes – vocals, piano

Additional Musicians

• Andrea Álvarez – percussion (2003–present)
• Lucas Ninci – keyboards, bandoneón, and backing vocals (2009–present)

Legacy and Influence

Aurora has made a significant impact on the global music scene with her innovative sound and compelling performances. Her collaborations with renowned artists and contributions to major soundtracks have solidified her reputation as a versatile and influential musician. Aurora’s dedication to addressing social and environmental issues through her music has inspired a new wave of artists to use their platforms for meaningful change.

Trivia

• Aurora’s song “Runaway” was featured in the John Lewis Christmas advert, boosting her international recognition.
• She performed alongside Hans Zimmer at the Royal Albert Hall for the BBC’s Earth Proms.
• Aurora served as a jury member on the Norwegian version of The Voice.
• Her music has been featured in popular media, including the FIFA 16 soundtrack and the HBO series Girls.
• Aurora is known for her distinctive “ethereal” vocal tone and unique stage presence.
• She has a strong connection to nature, often drawing inspiration from her surroundings in her music and art.
• Aurora has been an advocate for environmental and social causes, integrating these themes into her work.
• Her latest album, What Happened to the Heart?, is described as her most personal and cathartic project to date.
• Aurora has a dedicated fanbase that appreciates her blend of introspective lyrics and melodic compositions.
• She has performed at major international festivals, including Coachella and Lollapalooza.