INTERVIEW: Alternative Pop from Sjana Rut

Hailing from Reykjavik, Iceland, Sjana Rut has become one of the country’s most emotionally compelling voices. A singer-songwriter and producer with a poetic soul, Sjana’s artistic output is built on her storytelling, delivering unapologetically honest reflections on life from her perspective. With a background in literature and performance, she began singing and writing from a young age, transforming stories and poems into songs that carry both lyrical weight and melodic finesse.

Her talent eventually earned her national attention through appearances on The Voice Iceland and other prominent television competitions, but it’s her studio work that continues to forge her lasting legacy. Since her debut in 2016 with “Cry Me a River,” Sjana has built an impressive catalogue of releases that flows across various musical styles. Her albums Broken and Unbreakable explored themes of trauma and healing, offering a dual portrait of pain and strength.

Each release has showcased not just her vocal range, but her ability to create intimate sonic spaces that make listeners feel seen, understood and empowered. Now, Sjana returns with her latest release titled “Game Over,” a powerful new single that marks an exciting new chapter in her own story as an artist. Drenched in retro charm and pulsing with 80s-inspired production, the track is as catchy as it is cathartic; a high-energy anthem that frames ideas of heartbreak and control.

Drawing directly from her own experience of escaping an abusive relationship, the song transforms a personal tale of survival into a relatable message of liberation. Cut with clever use of video game metaphors to explore themes of manipulation and personal growth, instead of dwelling in despair, Sjana flips the tone entirely, trading sorrow for self-empowerment and helplessness for agency. “Game Over is me reclaiming my power—it’s about realising your worth, walking away from what no longer serves you, and stepping into a stronger, more independent version of yourself,” she shares.

The single also marks a return to Sjana’s electronic pop roots, but it arrives with a sharper edge and more assured direction. Brought in by her rich vocals, her alluring voice glides above buzzing synth textures and pulsing rhythm, crafting an instantly catchy electronic pop outing that’s brimming with infectious melodic hooks and danceable rhythm.

Led by her expressive vocal performance, “Game Over” pairs playful synth flickers with the punch of driving beats to cast an energising sound that’s at once memorable and meaningful in equal measure. Putting her engaging songwriting and vocal panache on full display, it’s a sensational new jam which delivers a potent two and a half minute dose of playful synth pop vibes that’s sure to win over both new and existing fans alike.

We caught up with Sjana Rut to find out more about her musical story so far, her new single “Game Over” and what she’s got lined up for the future. Check out our interview with Sjana Rut below.

Hey Sjana, how’s things?

Everything is as it should be! I’m genuinely excited about this new season.

What’s your earliest memory of making music?

I grew up in a house full of music — everything from AC/DC to Nat King Cole. But my clearest early memory is writing quirky little songs with my older brother when we were about eight and ten — songs about adventures, world events, whatever sparked our imagination. Around the same time, I started writing poetry, which slowly morphed into music. I wrote my first full song alone around 11-12 years old and haven’t stopped since.

Which artists do you draw most inspiration from?

It’s such a wide range. I’ve always loved artists like Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, Jackie Wilson, and on the other side of the spectrum — AC/DC, Yello, and an Icelandic group from the ’90s called Todmobile, who hold a really special place in my heart.

How else do you find inspiration for your music?

Honestly? From everything. The world around me, the people I meet, the stories I carry inside — they all feed into the music. I try to channel both the everyday and the deeply personal — even the painful, unspoken parts — into something artistic. Life writes the soundtrack. I just try to listen.

What was your highlight of the year for 2024?

Releasing Raunheimar (which means Realworld in english) — my Icelandic alt-pop/rock-folk album. It weaves together stories from people I’ve met, and a few deeply personal ones too. It’s raw and poetic, and captures life as it is — the beauty, the harshness, the wonder.

What do you love about the Reykjavik music scene?

It’s such a bold yet intimate space. Artists here aren’t afraid to be completely themselves. There’s real creative freedom. And honestly, there must be something in the water here — so much raw talent all around!

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

Anywhere you can feel — headphones on, driving through a storm, or catching a breath between moments. It’s for the everyday and everything in between.

How has your own style and sound evolved since you started out?

Releasing Broken and Unbreakable — a double album and art exhibition — marked a major turning point for me. I let go of the fear that had held me back for so long. I’ve always written a wide range of music and have a huge archive of unreleased work — but now, I’m finally sharing it without holding back. People are starting to see sides of me they’ve never known.

Who would be your dream artist to collaborate with?

Ed Sheeran, Hulvey, and Brandon Lake. I’ve followed Ed’s journey since I was a teenager — his authenticity in songwriting is so inspiring. Plus, we could probably pass as distant ginger cousins lol! Hulvey has this effortlessly cool vibe, and Brandon Lake is an absolute powerhouse — such a dynamic and passionate artist.

How did you find making your new single “Game Over”?

It was incredibly freeing. I wrote it during a time of personal unraveling, and it poured out of me fast.

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

That your story isn’t over. In fact, it might just be beginning. God’s not finished with you — there’s a greater plan, even if you can’t see it yet.

What artist have you been listening to most recently?

Lately I’ve been drawn to Hulvey, Forrest Frank, and Brandon Lake.

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

I want my music to reach anyone who needs encouragement, I hope it reminds them that healing is possible — with faith, courage, and time. You can rise again.

What’s been your favourite live performance so far?

I love exploring the natural acoustics of different spaces. Performing and recording inside the Akranes Lighthouse here in Iceland has been really special. I plan to keep doing more of that.

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

Brandon Lake, Ed Sheeran, and Eyþór Ingi (Icelandic powerhouse). And the festival would take place somewhere breathtaking in the Icelandic landscape — mystical, powerful, and otherworldly, yet grounded and deeply honest. Pure rock ‘n’ roll!

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

Be yourself. Don’t let the doubts of others drown you out. Your voice is needed, exactly as it is.

Finally, what do you have lined up for the rest of the year?

More music, definitely. Some live performances. And maybe a few surprise projects… who knows! I’m just staying open, creating, and enjoying life.

Listen to Game Over below