INTERVIEW: Indie Folk from Stian Borgen

In the Norwegian town of Kløfta, singer-songwriter Stian Borgen is making his official entrance to the music scene. Rooted in the traditions of roots and folk music since childhood, Borgen has spent most of his musical career serenading Norwegian blues clubs.

However, his latest venture takes a detour into the sphere of folk pop, marking a captivating shift in his sonic output. Introducing us to his recorded sound, Borgen unveils his latest single, “The Painter,” a poignant composition that thematically covers the complexities of identity, love, longing, worry and youthful courage.

The track serves as a preview of his debut solo album, a musical journey that’s been in the making for fifteen years. With a keen passion for roots music since childhood, Borgen takes the reins as he writes, performs and produces every aspect, creating a musical fabric that captures a stamp of time; a personal, inner odyssey.

Opened by bright acoustic guitar strums, Stian’s playful vocalisations enter as the soft stretch of organ tones sets up an upbeat sound. The lively shuffle of drums propels the song as Stian’s lead vocals glide in to deliver charming melodies, capturing a timeless folk pop sound that channels the aesthetic of Bob Dylan filtered through an uplifting and uptempo lens.

Stian Borgen’s enduring songwriting shines through as he explores the internal conflict of self-discovery. “The Painter” becomes a metaphorical journey, reflecting the universal fear of vulnerability and the lengths we go to in order to attain what might not be genuinely fulfilling.

His storytelling lyricism, paired with the infectious hooks and laid back percussion performed by Øystein Bergsvik, create a truly delightful musical experience. Injecting subtle twang with lightly gritty electric guitar tones and creating a buoyant scene lifted by vibrant backing vocal layers, “The Painter” is a superb first outing that sees Stian Borgen make a stellar entrance while building excitement for his upcoming debut record.

We caught up with Stian Borgen to find out more about his musical journey so far, his new single “The Painter” and what he’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Stian Borgen below.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

When I grew up, I always sang when I rode my bike or played in the sandbox. Most of the songs were modified covers or my own fantasy. I was a shy child, so I don’t think anyone ever heard me. I guess my earliest memory of this is from when I was 4 or 5 years old.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

I get inspired by many artists, regardless of genre. But for this particular album I think artists like Paul Simon, Nick Drake, Paul McCartney and Bob Dylan has had important influence.

And for this particular song, it’s no secret that Ryan Adams (the fantastic “Gold” album) has meant a great deal. I also think I can hear some Joni Mitchell in the acoustic guitar that was the foundation of the song.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

I try to be open to experiencing both the good and more difficult sides of life. We will all experience both happiness and sadness, joy and sorrow. I think a life with contrasts and elements of all these aspects of life is a rich life. All these contrast and different elements provide inspiration.

What was your highlight of the year for 2023?

I must say, the process of making the upcoming album was a highlight itself. The musical and personal development I got out of it, and simply the joy of doing what I love. But if I were to single out a particular part of the process, it would have to be the recording of the cello and the violin. I had written the arrangements for the strings some months in advance. When I finally heard it being played by the real instruments, it got kind of emotional. It was the first time I worked with strings that way, and wow!… what a feeling.

What do you love about the Oslo music scene?

Oslo is a small town in a world context. But since it is a capital, so much of Norway’s and Europe’s creativity gathers here. This leads to a high density of livescenes, and a melting pot of creative art and music. If you haven’t experienced Oslo’s live scenes, I highly recommend it.

What would you say is the perfect setting for listeners to enjoy your sound?

Anywhere that makes you happy, blue, angry or calm. At the beach, at work, when you’re doing laundry, when you sit and just listen with a glass of wine. People listen to music differently and are triggered by different elements in the music. I hope people find their right setting for my music.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Paul McCartney or The Tallest Man on Earth

How did you find making your new single “The Painter”?

Some songs come natural and fast. The Painter was one of these songs. At least the music and most of the lyrics was like that. But I must admit I found it difficult to get to know The Painter. He is this seemingly self-righteous guy who is obviously trying to keep up a facade, but at the same time I could sense some genuine love that he proclaims for this Cassandra. He has some issues that I think many of us can relate to, and It gives him this childish appearance. When I finally could connect the dots – the childish façade, the honest love, and the cheerful themes in the music; that’s when it became a whole song

What message did you want to get across with this release?

Our fear keeps us from doing a lot of things. It keeps us from fulfilling our dreams, our potential, and in some cases it keeps us from love. What are we so afraid of? Why do we think everyone cares so much about every move we make..?

I guess I’m a little afraid that people might see the real me. But what I am gradually discovering is that the more I reveal my true self, the more people accept me. And, I think, the sooner we figure this out the richer our lives will be.

What can listeners expect from your upcoming debut album?

The upcoming album is a diverse album where half of it is done with acoustic instruments and strings, and the other half is with a full band crew. Hopefully you’ll discover melodic parts that takes you somewhere nice for a moment, and lyrics that makes you think for a moment. And maybe you’ll feel the need to dance, or at least move. I’m looking so much forward to this get album released, and I hope you like it.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Well, from the top of my Spotify-list (deleting Spunch Bob and my guiltiest pleasures…), Eric Andersen, Jack White, Ocie Elliott, The Milk Carton Kids, Jimi Hendrix, The Avett Brothers

What’s the main thing you want people to get out of listening to your music?

When I listen to music that I like, I can get to a wonderful state of mind, whether it’s happiness, melancholy or plain rock’n roll energy. It may be too much to hope for, but that’s partly why I do this. A break from everyday life, and a change in state of mind, of only just for a moment.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

Paul McCartney – Telenor arena, Oslo 2015

Who would be 3 artists to headline your dream festival? And where would it be?

Elton John, David Gilmour and The Tallest Man on Earth… in Hyde Park off course… and would it be rude to ask if could I sit, please? I love the music, but I’m not a a dancer, and I’m not that tall 🙂

Do you have any advice for a new artist wanting to follow your footsteps?

Don’t follow my footsteps. Find your own way, and trust it. Try not to think you’re too strange or narrow. The world needs diversity, an honest voice and what’s deep down in your heart. Even if it’s really hard to believe it sometimes…

Finally, what do you have lined up for 2024?

First I’m going to release one more single and an album this spring. Then we’re finally going out to play live. Where and when we will return to.

Listen to The Painter below