Icona Pop

Icona Pop are the Stockholm duo of Aino Jawo and Caroline Hjelt, whose synth-pop draws on electro house and indie pop. Formed in 2009, they signed with TEN Music Group that year and later entered a label deal with Ultra Music. The Swedish press described their songs as music “you can both laugh and cry to at the same time,” a phrase that fits the duo’s mix of exuberant dance production and blunt, emotionally charged hooks.

Jawo and Hjelt first drew wider attention with “Manners,” included on the 2011 EP Nights Like This. Their breakout came with 2012’s “I Love It,” featuring Charli XCX and associated with producer Patrik Berger. The single became Icona Pop’s biggest hit, reaching the UK Singles Chart summit and the Billboard top 10, while also appearing in television programs, commercials and other media. It was released around the duo’s self-titled debut album and the Iconic EP.

Icona Pop followed with singles including “We Got the World,” “Girlfriend” and “All Night,” the latter topping Billboard’s dance chart. Their international debut album, This Is... Icona Pop, arrived after the success of “I Love It” and “We Got the World.” The pair also toured as an opening act in North America for Marina and the Diamonds during the Electra Heart era.

Later releases included “Get Lost,” “Emergency,” “Someone Who Can Dance,” “Brightside,” “GIRLS GIRLS” and “Rhythm in My Blood.” “Emergency” was included in the video game FIFA 16, and its release was followed by an EP of the same name. Icona Pop also opened for Miley Cyrus, Katy Perry and One Direction. Jawo was born on 7 July 1986 and Hjelt on 8 November 1987; both grew up in Stockholm.