Stein Torleif Bjella, Norway’s Everyday Poet

Stein Torleif Bjella © Per Ole HagenOne of the most interesting artists in Norway in later years, is Stein Torleif Bjella. He has played for a long time with the band Tolv Volt, and has his solo carreer on the side. Although his solo efforts are definitely the most succesful these days. He was awarded a Norwegian Grammy for his second solo CD, Vonde Visu, and was nominated for his first, Heidersmenn.

Stein Torleif Bjella © Per Ole Hagen

Stein Torleif Bjella is first and foremost known for his lyrics. He writes about everyday themes with a big portion of understated humour and irony. He lives in Hallingdal, and writes and sings in his local dialect.

HP Gundersen from the Stein Torleif Bjella band © Per Ole Hagen

Last weekend Stein Torleif Bjella played at the Working Class Hero festival in Drammen with his band – among the musicians is the legendary HP Gundersen on steel guitar – and here are some pictures from the concert.

Stein Torleif Bjella © Per Ole Hagen

HP Gundersen from the Stein Torleif Bjella band © Per Ole Hagen

Stein Torleif Bjella © Per Ole Hagen

All the pictures are © Per Ole Hagen and may not be used without written permission.

2 thoughts on “Stein Torleif Bjella, Norway’s Everyday Poet

  1. Pingback: The Working Class Hero Festival is coming up | Artist Pictures Blog

  2. We’re just curious if you might be related to Lars Bjella who was born around 1850 in Hallingdal (his son’s name was Timon)? Keith Bjella, great grandson, lives in the U.S.

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