Michelle Ullestad has had a busy festival summer, and in 2022, she could be "Årets Urørt" (This Year's Urørt) during the P3 Gull awards ceremony on September 29th.
– It has been overwhelming but in a good way, smiles the 27-year-old from Voss when asked about how the festival summer has been.
– I have learned a lot during this summer. I have never played at festivals before, except for industry festivals, so there is a lot to figure out on the road. But goodness, it has been so much fun, she says.
It has been overwhelming but in a good way.Michelle Ullestad
Michelle studied sound and music production at Noroff and made her industry debut with the song "Åpen Igjen" in 2019. Since then, she has released two EPs, and this year her name was on the posters for several major festivals in Norway, including Øyafestivalen, Bergenfest, and Stavernfestivalen.
– The best thing about playing at festivals is the audience! But also spending time with my band members, she says.
– That was my first dream
With the song "Emilie," she was appointed "Månedens Urørt" (The Month's Urørt) by P3 in January – an appointment that has now led her to be one of three finalists for "Årets Urørt."
– It would be cool to win it, of course. But the most important and rewarding thing for me when it comes to making music is when I receive messages from people who relate or feel seen by what I create. That was my first dream, and I still dream it, says Michelle.
Photo: Irene Ulveseth
Michelle releases music exclusively in Norwegian and describes her music as a mix of Norwegian pop, indie, and rock. She writes personal and honest lyrics and is not afraid to share.
– I don't know if I have a clear idea of what I want to convey in the songs, really. I just write songs. Some are about mental health, some about love, some about silly arguments. I write about life, she says.
Close Bonds
Hold on to everything positive or a step closer to where you want to be.Michelle Ullestad
The former Noroff student says that during her study, she formed close bonds with her instructors. Occasionally, she still contacts them if she needs advice or help.
– And I built a network, which is incredibly important in this industry. My first band consisted of people from Noroff, and I also met my closest friends there, she says.
– What would you say to others who want to pursue music?
– Just do it. It costs nothing to try. What's difficult is not giving up when you face setbacks. Hold on to everything positive or a step closer to where you want to be, take care of the good people around you, and get rid of those who steal energy, advises Michelle, adding:
– And most importantly: good luck!
Related studies
Sound and Music Production
This programme is designed for individuals who wish to work creatively or technically with music and sound. The degree is made for those who aspire to become artists, composers, producers, or work with sound and film music.
| 2 years (or 1 year) | |
| Oslo, Bergen | |
| Higher Professional Degree |
