A Remarkable Rise to Stardom
Laufey’s path to stardom is nothing short of extraordinary. At 17, she was already a finalist on Iceland’s Got Talent and a semi-finalist on The Voice Iceland. Yet, she remained grounded, focused on her classical cello studies. It was during this period that Bill Murray’s words of encouragement became a turning point. “I hadn’t put out any music then,” Laufey recalls. “I was just a nerdy little classical cello student.” But Murray’s recognition planted a seed of confidence that would soon flourish into a remarkable career.
The encounter with Murray was more than just a fleeting moment of praise. It symbolized the beginning of Laufey’s transformation from a promising student to a global sensation. Her subsequent achievements—graduating from Berklee College of Music and releasing two albums—testify to the profound impact of those early words. Today, Laufey stands as a testament to the power of belief and perseverance.
From Classical Roots to Pop Sensation
Laufey’s transition from classical cello to jazz-pop wasn’t linear but was driven by her passion for diverse musical forms. Her classical training provided a strong foundation, allowing her to explore complex melodies and harmonies. This versatility became a hallmark of her style, evident in both her live performances and studio recordings. Critics have lauded her ability to blend genres seamlessly, creating a sound that is uniquely hers.
Her debut album, “Everything I Know About Love,” released in 2022, showcased her emotional depth and storytelling prowess. Each track was a window into her personal experiences, resonating deeply with listeners. The success of this album paved the way for her second release, “Bewitched,” which won the prestigious Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album. This accolade solidified her status as a leading voice in contemporary music.
Bill Murray: A Full-Circle Moment
One of the most memorable moments in Laufey’s career came when Bill Murray made a cameo in her “Santa Baby” music video. Directed by Jason Lester and choreographed by Alex Wong, the video featured Murray as the narrator while Laufey brought a modern twist to the holiday classic. The collaboration was a full-circle moment, bringing together the actor who had once praised her potential and the artist she had become.
The video not only showcased Laufey’s musical talent but also her flair for visual storytelling. In one scene, she lounges amidst stunning holiday displays, flipping off Santa and delivering a bold message to the head of the North Pole. The video became a perfect visual representation of the track, blending humor, elegance, and a touch of rebellion. Laufey expressed her excitement about adding to her Christmas EP, “A Very Laufey Holiday,” noting the fun and creativity involved in bringing the project to life.
Continuing the Legacy with A Very Laufey Holiday
“Santa Baby” is the latest addition to Laufey’s Christmas EP, originally released in 2022. The EP has been well-received by fans and critics alike, offering a fresh take on holiday classics. Laufey’s version of “Santa Baby” adds a unique flavor, capturing the festive spirit while infusing it with her signature style. The song’s music video, featuring Bill Murray and Isabella Boylston of the American Ballet, elevates the project to new heights.
This EP represents more than just seasonal music; it’s a reflection of Laufey’s growth as an artist. Each track tells a story, inviting listeners into her world. From the playful banter with Santa to the enchanting visuals, the EP showcases Laufey’s ability to create immersive experiences that connect with audiences on a deeper level. As she continues to add to this collection, fans can expect even more innovative and heartfelt offerings.