Ane Brun, born Ane Brunvoll on March 10, 1976, is a Norwegian songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist of Sami origin. She was raised in Molde, Norway, in a musically inclined family. She developed an early affinity for music. Her younger sister, Mari Kvien Brunvoll, also pursued a career in music, while her older brother, Bjørn Brunvoll, became a photographer. Ane’s journey into music began in earnest when she moved to Bergen in 1995 to study at the University, exploring courses in Spanish, law, and music.
It was during this period in Bergen that Ane Brun started writing her own songs. Her musical ambitions led her to travel between Barcelona, Oslo, and Bergen, supporting herself through work in record shops and bars. In 2001, she relocated to Sweden, first settling in Uppsala and then in Stockholm, where she began to focus seriously on her music career.
Her debut album, “Spending Time with Morgan,” recorded in 2002 and released in 2003, marked the beginning of her musical journey. Co-produced with Katharina Nuttall and others, the album showcased Brun’s introspective songwriting and distinctive voice. The album was well-received across Europe, setting the stage for her subsequent releases.
“A Temporary Dive,” her second studio album released in 2005, further solidified her reputation as a talented songwriter. Songs like “The Fight Song” and “Song No. 6” explored darker themes, while collaborations with artists like Ron Sexsmith highlighted her versatility. The album earned her critical acclaim and accolades, including the Spellemannpris (Norwegian Grammy) for Best Female Artist.
In the same year, Brun released “Duets,” a collaborative album featuring artists she admired, such as Syd Matters and Teitur. Her collaboration with Madrugada on the single “Lift Me” garnered additional acclaim, showcasing her ability to blend her voice seamlessly with others in diverse musical contexts.
Brun’s live performances became known for their intimacy and emotive power, whether accompanied by a full band, string section, or in solo acoustic settings. Her 2007 release, “Live in Scandinavia,” captured her performances with a string quintet, offering new interpretations of songs from her early albums.
“Changing of the Seasons,” released in 2008 and produced by Valgeir Sigurðsson, continued to showcase Brun’s evolution as an artist. The album featured intricate string arrangements by American composer Nico Muhly, adding depth to her introspective lyrics and melodic compositions.
In subsequent years, Brun continued to explore new musical territories. Her sixth studio album, “It All Starts with One,” released in 2011 and produced by Tobias Fröberg, expanded her sonic palette while retaining her signature introspective style. She collaborated with Peter Gabriel on his album “New Blood,” further showcasing her versatility as a vocalist.
Brun’s discography includes a diverse range of albums, from covers collections like “Leave Me Breathless” (2017) to original works such as “When I’m Free” (2015) and a series of EPs and live recordings. Her ability to blend folk, pop, and indie influences with poignant lyrics has endeared her to audiences worldwide, earning her a dedicated fan base and critical acclaim.
In recent years, Brun has continued to innovate and evolve as an artist. Her double album release in 2020, comprising “After the Great Storm” and “How Beauty Holds the Hand of Sorrow,” showcases her continued growth and artistic exploration. These albums, nominated for IMPALA’s European Independent Album of the Year Award, underscore her enduring influence and relevance in the music industry.
Ane Brun’s career is marked by a commitment to authenticity and emotional honesty, reflected in her powerful live performances and extensive discography. As she continues to push musical boundaries and captivate audiences globally, her impact on contemporary music remains profound and enduring.
