Norwegian-Sámi musician and storyteller Emil Kárlsen returns with a new single, “Golggotmánu jurdagat” (“October’s thoughts”). Written and recorded entirely by Kárlsen himself in 2024, the track marks a milestone for the artist as his first self-produced release.
“The title translates to ‘October’s thoughts’, and the song reflects the mild and unusually long autumn that lingered, both in nature and in mood,” explains Emil.
“Golggotmánu jurdagat” features the contribution of Finnish violinist Tuomas Rounakari, whose soft play fits seamlessly into Emil’s intimate sonic landscape. The track was mixed by respected producer Ariel Joshua Sivertsen. The result is a warm and atmospheric track—perfectly in tune with the gentle shift of seasons, and a promising sign of what’s to come from this young artist.
Emil’s work is rooted in heritage while embracing the new. His signature sound—where ancient yoik meets modern songwriting—offers a rare and authentic perspective in the Nordic music scene. In addition to his musical career, Emil starred in the critically acclaimed Disney+ series “How to Cook a Bear,” further expanding his creative journey.
Songwriter, actor, yoiker, and producer Emil Ráste Karlsen—better known under his artist name Emil Kárlsen—is an indigenous multi-instrumentalist born in 1997, originally from the coastal Northern Sámi community of Omasvuotna/Storfjord. Combining traditional Sámi yoiks with melodic pop songwriting and a strong band foundation, Emil’s music offers a deeply rooted sound that bridges generations and cultures.
At the core of Emil’s artistry lies a powerful intent: to build connections between people, places, and time. After a decade of performing in Norwegian with his award-winning band Resirkulert, Emil made the deliberate choice to write in his mother tongue, Northern Sámi, and to revive the tradition of juoiggan (yoiking) in the coastal Sámi areas—a form of resistance and reclamation of identity through sound.
Emil is also a celebrated actor with the Sámi National Theatre Beaivváš and stars in the acclaimed Disney+ TV series To Cook a Bear. Yet, it is on stage as a musician that Emil feels most at home. Whether performing solo, with his band, or backed by a full orchestra, Emil Kárlsen delivers emotionally charged, magnetic performances that leave a lasting impact. Every concert is a living expression of his culture and charisma—never quite the same, and always unforgettable. Through music and art, Emil Kárlsen expresses gratitude that his culture not only survives but thrives.