Norwegian pop artist Sigrid is redefining what it means to be a pop musician in 2026. Speaking backstage at Mad Cool 2026 in Madrid, she opened up about her artistic evolution over the past decade, describing herself as existing“somewhere in between”pop and rock. Her latest album,‘There’s Always More That I Could Say,’showcases guitar-heavy production blended with Scandi indie pop, French music influences, and diverse genre inspirations. While Sigrid proudly identifies as a pop artist, she’s increasingly incorporated rock elements into her work, creating a sound that connects with audiences across the musical spectrum.
What makes Sigrid’s approach particularly compelling is her genuine engagement with the broader music community. Currently on a global tour that has taken her from Asia to Europe, she’s actively listening to contemporary artists like Turnstile, Olivia Rodrigo, Holly Humberstone, and TOMORA. This immersion in diverse sounds directly influences her creative direction and keeps her music feeling fresh and connected to what’s happening in music right now. She’s even performed collaborations with rock bands like Bring Me The Horizon, proving that her artistic boundaries are constantly expanding.
The festival circuit has become a major part of Sigrid’s world, and she’s clearly thriving on those diverse lineup experiences. She described it as an honor to play on the rock day of festivals, highlighting how her music connects with different audiences simultaneously. Fans have been emotional at her performances across genres, with Sigrid even noting that she’s seen metal fans tear up at her ballads. As she continues her tour through North America before heading to Sziget in Budapest and Victorious Festival in Portsmouth, one thing is clear: the future of pop music doesn’t require staying in one lane. What artists are you currently listening to who are breaking genre expectations?
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Local Lawton
Local Lawton is a contributor to LocalBeat, covering local news and community stories.