Páll Óskar Hjálmtýsson, known professionally as Paul Oscar, is an Icelandic singer-songwriter and disc jockey who gained international visibility during the 1997 Eurovision Song Contest. Born in Reykjavík, he transitioned from a child performer in media advertisements and theatre productions to a dominant figure in the Icelandic music scene, spanning genres from traditional ballads to electronic dance music.
Early Development and Theatre
Born on 16 March 1970 to bank clerk Hjálmtýr E. Hjálmtýsson and writer Margrét Matthíasdóttir, Paul Oscar was the youngest of seven children. He began recording professionally at age seven and secured a lead role in the musical adaptation of the novel Rubber Tarzan at age twelve. After his voice matured, he returned to performance in the school choir and high school theatre, notably playing Frank-N-Furter in The Rocky Horror Show in 1990.
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After relocating to New York City in 1993, he collaborated with Icelandic musicians to release his debut album, Stuð. In 1995, he launched his own label, Paul Oscar Productions, and released the ballad-heavy album Palli, which became the year's best-selling record in Iceland. His international profile grew following his 1997 Eurovision performance of Minn hinsti dans, which featured a notable, unconventional stage production.
Broadcasting and Public Life
Beyond his musical discography, which includes English-language works like Deep Inside and collaborative projects with harpist Monika Abendroth, Paul Oscar has served as a judge on Idol stjörnuleit and The X Factor. He maintains a presence in Reykjavík’s media landscape as a radio personality and club disc jockey, while also advocating for LGBT+ rights and participating in the organization of the Reykjavík Gay Pride Festival.
Fast facts
- Born: 16 March 1970, Reykjavík, Iceland
- Occupations: Singer, songwriter, disc jockey, dancer
- Debut Album: Stuð (1993)
- Eurovision Entry: Minn hinsti dans (1997)
- Spouse: Edgar Antonio Lucena Angarita (married 2024)
- Primary Genres: Pop, disco, house, techno, ballads
Questions readers ask
What was Paul Oscar's first major professional music role?
He recorded his first album at age seven and later gained recognition as a solo artist with the release of the 1995 album Palli.
Is Paul Oscar still active in the music industry?
Yes, he continues to perform as a disc jockey in Reykjavík and participates in theatre, including a record-breaking 2018 production of The Rocky Horror Show.
Achievements
- Instruments: voice
- Genres: pop music
