Svavar Knútur (Iceland)

Singer-songwriter Svavar Knútur hails from the remote and melancholic fjords of Iceland. Known for his eclectic blend of folk music, Knutur’s songs explore themes of grief, hope, and redemption. His sound is influenced by artists such as Nick Drake, Will Oldham, and Kris Kristofferson, while also drawing inspiration from Leonard Cohen and Joni Mitchell, not to mention Icelandic folklore, history and literature. Having released five solo albums, Knutur has collaborated with numerous international artists and gained a global following. His work includes heartfelt storytelling and humor, often reflecting on the human condition. Svavar Knutur’s live performances, full of emotion and wit, have captivated audiences across Europe, Australia, and North America.

Featured Songs:

Dedicated to his son “Refur” (which means “fox” in Icelandic), Knutur's loving lullaby is featured on our Global Indie collection. “Now, twilight brings us peace and calm / And shyly, the sun rests in the sea / In the nook of my arms, there is sanctuary / There, a tiny fox soon strides into the world of dreams / There we swim / Between clouds, side by side / Every heartbeat is celestial glory, playing with you.”

Featured on our Scandinavia collection, Knútur’s song “Úlfar” is a heartfelt ode to his young son, whose name means “wolf” in Icelandic. It reflects on his child’s potential and innocence, symbolized by a life’s tree yet to grow, while offering guidance and reassurance in facing life’s challenges. Accompanied by a gentle but upbeat acoustic tune, Knútur sings, “I long to hear and see / Your heart beat across the world / I will walk by you, your first steps / My dearest Úlfar.”

“Ease Your Mind” is a tender meditation on love, fear, and healing. Told through mirrored verses of parting and reunion, the Acoustic Coffeehouse song reassures both a little girl and little boy that the sorrows of the past will be healed by future connections and love. “Just ease your mind, little boy, little boy / It will all be fine if you ease your mind / ’Cause you both know it in your hearts / That your souls were meant to meet.”

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