Per Gessle

Per Gessle: A Swedish Pop Icon

Early Life and Musical Beginnings

Per Gessle was born in Halmstad, Sweden, on January 12, 1959. He began playing guitar and writing songs as a young child, inspired by The Beatles and other British Invasion bands. At the age of 17, he co-founded the band Gyllene Tider ("Golden Times") with his childhood friend Marie Fredriksson. Gyllene Tider released their debut album in 1978 and quickly gained popularity in Sweden with their catchy pop songs and energetic stage presence.

Roxette

In the early 1980s, Gessle met Marie Fredriksson again and they formed the duo Roxette. Their breakthrough came in 1989 with the release of their album "Look Sharp!" and its hit single "The Look." Roxette became one of the most successful Swedish pop bands of all time, selling over 75 million records worldwide. They released a string of hit songs in the 1990s, including "It Must Have Been Love," "Joyride," and "Dangerous."

Solo Career

In addition to his work with Roxette, Gessle has also had a successful solo career. He released his first solo album in 1983 and has since released several more, including "The World According to Gessle" (1997), "Mazarin" (2003), and "En händig man" (2017). Gessle's solo albums explore a more introspective and personal side of his songwriting, while still maintaining the catchy melodies and emotional depth that characterize his work with Roxette.

Legacy

Per Gessle is considered one of the most successful and influential Swedish pop musicians of all time. His songs have been covered by numerous artists, including Taylor Swift, Ed Sheeran, and Bon Jovi. He has received numerous awards and accolades for his work, including the Swedish Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award in 2014. Gessle's music continues to inspire and entertain fans around the world, and his legacy as a pop icon is secure.