Artist of the Month: Hanne Leland

Hanne Leland – The Christmas Songs Album

OUR ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Hanne Leland, a rising Norwegian pop artist, returns just in time for the holidays with The Christmas Songs, an album that is all about showcasing the season’s classic songs through a unique simplicity, modernism, and charm. Already known in Europe and the US for her polished pop sound and raw songwriting, Leland turns her attention to a collection of Christmas classics, alongside two original tracks, This Time of Year and Snowflake. All in all, they come together to create a cohesive and festive album that showcases her crystal-clear pop vocals against intentionally understated production.

One of the standout moments from the album comes with her rendition of “Let It Snow.” Traditionally an upbeat holiday staple, Leland softens the song into a relaxing version that highlights her light vocal touch. It transforms the original’s energy into something more tender, making it the kind of track that is perfect for late nights by the fire or quiet holiday dinner. Her phrasing is delicate, and the stripped-back production allows the natural warmth of her voice to be highlighted.

Another key moment in the album is “Blue Christmas,” which Leland covers into an intimate piano ballad. While the original leans heavily into a retro vibe, her version is more restrained. The minimalist arrangement leaves room for her vocal control to shine (which will be a core part of the album), giving the song a more feminine sound. It consists of a poised, graceful quality that feels uniquely hers. The emotional clarity she brings to the classic song leans into the melancholy of the lyrics without feeling or sounding too heavy, making it one of the album’s most memorable moments.

Meanwhile, “White Christmas” stands out as the project’s most cinematic cover. Leland delivers the classic song with the perfect amount of subtle grandeur, her vocals sounding almost filmic in their pose. The arrangement mirrors the priceless nostalgia of old Hollywood holiday films, giving the track a soft, yet fitting, glow. It is here that the simplicity of the production pays off most as the song sounds like the backing track from a winter movie scene, capturing the dreamlike wonder that we all hope to tap into during the season.

The Christmas Songs showcases the multitalents of an artist who has developed her career through independence, persistence, and approaching each project with intention. This album is no exception and while it is mostly covers, it was created out of a love for traditions - new and old. It offers something joyful for all listeners,even those for have mixed feelings about this time of year.

The release naturally leads into Leland’s reflections on the project. When asked about releasing this Christmas album, she shares:

“I’m thrilled to finally share this collection of Christmas songs. I really loved putting my own twist on covers while also writing my very first Christmas songs. I wanted to capture that magical, almost childlike joy of Christmas. Hopefully, it will bring people into the holiday spirit.”

What follows is our thoughtful discussion of timing, process, inspiration, and the emotional waves of the holidays. In talking with Leland, it becomes clear just how much of her heart shaped every part of this project. For example, she and her collaborators recorded these Christmas songs in the middle of a summer heatwave. Read below for our full interview with Hanne Leland, where she opens up about the making of The Christmas Songs, the stories behind the tracks, and what she hopes listeners take away.

Can you tell us the story behind your latest album?

Hanne speaks:
Releasing a Christmas song each year has become a tradition for me, and over time, that’s added up to quite a collection. I’ve always dreamed of creating a full album, a body of work that brings together my favourite Christmas classics along with some of the original songs I’ve written. Making this album has been such a joy, and my hope is that it fills listeners with that cozy, blissful Christmas feeling. There are also a few tracks about missing someone during the holidays, so there’s a little something for everyone.

Why did you decide to release it at the time that you did?

I wanted the album to be out well before Christmas so it could be part of people’s December and all the holiday preparations.

How does this album fit into — or stand out from — your previous bodies of work?

Creating a Christmas album feels quite different from making a regular album or EP. There’s something magical about it, you can really lean into the ‘cheesy’ charm and that childlike joy without holding back. I loved sprinkling in little jingle bell sounds throughout the songs, haha! Honestly, making a Christmas album is pure bliss. I didn’t overthink it at all, I just had fun.

Can you walk us through your songwriting and album-building process?

The album only includes two original songs I wrote “This Time of Year” and “Snowflake”, both written a few years ago. The other tracks are covers. There’s so much emphasis on joy and celebration during Christmas, but I wanted to create something for those who find the season difficult. Both originals explore the feeling of missing someone during the holidays. I also recorded a deeply emotional version of “Blue Christmas”. The rest of the album is more upbeat and festive. My goal was to make a Christmas album you can turn to no matter your mood or how you feel about the season.

Do you have a favorite lyric, moment, or track on the album personally?

The bridge in my original Christmas song “This Time of Year’” is probably my favourite part because it captures the conflicting emotions of the season. It goes like this: “Decorations, celebrations, choirs sing. Cider flows, fire glows, the bells they ring. But baby, I’m the saddest I have ever been.’”

Is there a feeling or message you hope listeners take away from the full project?

I hope this album brings joy and that special Christmas feeling to everyone who listens. I want it to make people feel warm and cozy. And for those who find this season difficult, I hope it offers a little comfort.

Were there any unexpected challenges during the recording or production of the album?

We actually recorded most of the album during June and July, right in the middle of a heatwave in Oslo. The studio was super hot, so trying to summon that Christmas spirit was definitely a challenge at times, haha!

Looking back, who or what influences shaped the sound and direction of this project?

My favourite Christmas album has always been Mariah Carey’s “Merry Christmas” from 1994. To me, it’s the perfect holiday record, a beautiful balance of upbeat, joyful tracks and calm, emotional ones. I’ve definitely drawn inspiration from that album while creating my own.

If you could describe this album in three words, what would they be — and why?

Cozy, joyous, and emotional.

Are you planning to play any of these songs live soon, or have you already debuted some of them?

I’m planning something really special for next year! A big Christmas show in Oslo! It won’t just be a concert, but a full-on festive experience with guest artists, decorations, and champagne. Think of it as a huge Christmas party with live music.

What’s next following this release? Any upcoming projects, collaborations, or tours we should know about?

2026 is going to be an exciting year! I’ve got new music ready and will be releasing four singles and an EP. I can’t wait to share everything I’ve been working on!