Rebekka Bakken

Rebekka Bakken is a Norwegian vocalist and songwriter who emerged as a significant force in the European jazz and crossover scenes in the early 2000s. Known for her extraordinary three-octave range, her sound is characterized by a blend of jazz sophistication, folk intimacy, and pop accessibility.

After early collaborations with guitarist Wolfgang Muthspiel and pianist Julia Hülsmann, she established a solo career that challenged the boundaries of vocal jazz. Her work often incorporates elements of the Great American Songbook, Tom Waits-style blues, and contemporary singer-songwriter traditions. Critically, she is praised for her 'un-Nordic' vocal heat, often compared to American soul singers while maintaining a distinctly European production aesthetic. Her career arc shows a steady evolution from experimental jazz collaborations to more structured, song-oriented albums that emphasize her prowess as a producer and lyricist. She remains a central figure in the 'Norwegian Wave' of jazz, though her move to Vienna and her diverse influences give her a unique, cosmopolitan position in the global music landscape.