Kari Bremnes diagnosed with cancer: “I’ll sing for as long as I can”
There is absolutely no doubt about it: Kari Bremnes is one of our truly great voices. For over forty years, she has captivated audiences, first as part of the sibling trio, and later as a solo artist with a solid, award-winning career. That's why few were prepared for the news that came today. The much-loved artist has been diagnosed with cancer.
The news hits like a punch to the gut for everyone who has a connection to her music. And most of us do, of course. From heartfelt ballads to more rhythmic tracks – Kari Bremnes owns the stage, no matter the genre. She has been open about the diagnosis in a statement, saying that she is, of course, affected, but that she is also optimistic about the future: – I'll sing for as long as I can, she says. And that's typical of her. No self-pity, just incredible strength and a love for music that drives her forward.
A unique career filled with moments
It's difficult to sum up Kari's career in just a few sentences, but some highlights shine brighter than others. For many, the collaboration with Swedish actor and singer Rikard Wolff is particularly special. Their duets, like on the album Desemberbarn, are timeless and moving. Rikard Wolff and Kari Bremnes was an unexpected but perfect meeting of two great personalities.
And then, of course, we have the classic albums. For collectors and audiophiles, Kari Bremnes - Norwegian Mood (LP/Vinyl) is a must-have. That album, recorded with the London Philharmonic Orchestra, reveals a completely different side of her – grand, cool, and incredibly beautiful. It has found its way onto many turntables over the years, and it still sells well on vinyl. Just as important in her discography is Kari Bremnes - Ly (CD), an album that, in many ways, defined her sound in the 90s. Straightforward, intimate, with lyrics that become etched in your heart. Ly is still a record I turn to when I need replenishment.
Magic on stage
But nothing beats experiencing her live. Those who have been to a Kari Bremnes live show know exactly what I'm talking about. There's something truly unique about that presence. She needs no grand effects; her voice and presence are enough. She delivers every single line as if she's speaking directly to you, even with thousands in the audience. Her concerts aren't just concerts; they're experiences. And thankfully, she has several planned for this spring and summer, including at Tønsberg Medievann scene and in Follebu. I'm certain these performances will be especially charged with emotion now.
To give you a taste of the breadth of what she has given us, here are a few moments and releases you should take note of:
- The meeting with Rikard Wolff: Their duets are among the finest things ever done in Norwegian and Swedish.
- “Norwegian Mood” on vinyl: An auditory delight and a collector's item for many.
- “Ly” on CD: The album featuring classics like “En elsker i Berlin” and “Togsang”.
- The concerts in the 90s: Legendary performances still talked about by those who were there.
- Current tour: Keep an eye on Kari's pages; tickets for the upcoming shows are selling fast.
There's no doubt the coming months will be tough for Kari. But if anyone has the strength to come through an ordeal like this stronger, it's her. With music in her heart and a whole country behind her. We look forward to hearing you again, Kari. We'll take good care of your voice.