Ebba Tove Elsa Nilsson, known as Tove Lo, established her career through a blend of independent composition and international pop production. Born in 1987 in Sweden, she transitioned from a math rock band environment into a prominent songwriter and solo artist, balancing personal autobiographical work with high-profile collaborations within the global popular music industry.
Early Development
Born in Djursholm, Viken church parish, Nilsson began writing songs during her childhood. She attended the Rytmus Musikergymnasiet in Stockholm, where she met Caroline Hjelt. By 2006, she formed the rock band Tremblebee, which performed in Swedish bars for three years until its dissolution in 2009. Following the band's end, she developed skills in music programming, drum playing, and record production.
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After signing a publishing deal with Warner/Chappell Music in 2011, she collaborated with producers Max Martin, Alexander Kronlund, and Xenomania. Her songwriting credits include songs for artists such as Ellie Goulding and Lorde. She also worked with various musicians, including Alesso, Coldplay, Charli XCX, Nelly Furtado, and Kylie Minogue. In 2015, she received the Musikexportpriset award.
Solo Discography
Lo released her debut album, Queen of the Clouds, in 2014, featuring the tracks Habits (Stay High) and Talking Body. Subsequent albums include Lady Wood in 2016, Blue Lips in 2017, and Sunshine Kitty in 2019, which featured the Grammy-nominated song Glad He's Gone. In 2022, she released Dirt Femme, which included the song How Long, featured on the Euphoria soundtrack.
Fast facts
- Born: 1987
- Birthplace: Djursholm, Viken church parish, Sweden
- Occupations: Singer, songwriter, composer, musician, lyricist, film director
- Debut album: Queen of the Clouds (2014)
- Notable award: Musikexportpriset (2015)
- Primary field: Pop music
Questions readers ask
What is the origin of her stage name?
Her godmother gave her the nickname Tove Lo at age three, inspired by a lynx named Tove at a zoo.
Which bands was she part of before her solo career?
She was a member of the math rock band Tremblebee between 2006 and 2009.
Achievements
- Worked as singer, songwriter and composer
