The prominent Swedish Eurovision icon, who appeared as a guest at Eurovision 2024, has announced his retirement from music due to health reasons.
The Swedish legend Björn Skifs, who represented Sweden at Eurovision in 1978 and 1981, has announced his retirement from music after being diagnosed with FTD (frontotemporal dementia). In 1978, he performed the song “Det blir alltid värre framåt natten“, finishing 14th, and returned in 1981 with “Fångad i en dröm“, reaching 10th place. Despite not achieving top rankings at the contest, Skifs is seen as one of Sweden’s most respected artists, notably as the first Swedish musician to top the American charts with the band Blue Swede and their hit “Hooked on a Feeling“.
Skifs’ announcement, coming from one of the most beloved and influential voices in Swedish pop history, was met with deep sorrow in both the Eurovision community and the European music industry. The 78-year-old singer wrote:
“It’s not easy to take in, neither for me nor for my loved ones, and it feels incredibly sad in so many ways. But I have lived a rich and wonderful life, filled with music, love, and laughter. Thank you to everyone who, in some way, has been a part of my life as an artist, not least the audience! Now it is time to slow down and take one day at a time.”
This marks a symbolic end to a career spanning over five decades, during which he inspired generations of artists and creators.
Beyond Retirement: The Cultural Significance of Skifs’ Departure
For Sweden in Eurovision, and the Scandinavian pop scene at large, Skifs is far more than a singer—he is a cultural institution. As mentioned, his song “Hooked on a Feeling” with Blue Swede achieved the rare feat of reaching number one on the US chart—a significant accomplishment for a Swedish song in the 1970s. His decision to retire due to illness has raised public awareness about dementia among senior citizens, especially among active artists. Initiatives to support older musicians through dedicated funds are already gaining traction across Europe.
Additionally, music critics highlight his guest appearance at Eurovision 2024 as an unofficial tribute to his extensive career.
A Life in the Spotlight: From Intimate Shows to the Eurovision Stage
Skifs began his career in the late 1960s, when he founded the band Slam Creepers. However, his major breakthrough came with Blue Swede, who enjoyed international success. He made his first Eurovision appearance in 1978 with “Det blir alltid värre framåt natten“, and his 1981 performance of “Fångad i en dröm” is still considered a fan favorite in Eurovision circles. Conversations with Eurovision enthusiasts in the EuroMix community emphasized how Skifs is viewed as a nostalgic icon, embodying the Swedish spirit in the contest.
Outside of music, he participated in various projects, including television programs, films, and more. He even performed at the wedding of Sweden’s Crown Princess Victoria. Skifs is an artist who has remained relevant across generations—making the announcement about his retirement a dramatic moment not only for fans but also for Swedish culture itself.
Björn Skifs’s Unique Impact on Eurovision
Over the years, as I watched Eurovision contests, I felt firsthand the excitement surrounding performances by legendary artists like Skifs. The modest productions of the 70s, relying almost entirely on the performer’s charisma, highlighted just how crucial stage presence was—a skill Skifs mastered exceptionally well. Songs such as “Michelangelo“, which didn’t even win Melodifestivalen, the Swedish national selection for Eurovision, still became huge hits. This illustrates the gap between success in the contest itself and achieving deep cultural resonance.
Eurovision 2026: This will be Sweden’s 64th appearance in the competition. Sweden joined Eurovision in 1958 and has won the contest seven times over the years. The country’s most recent victory came in 2023, when Loreen won with the song “Tattoo”.
