Feb 20 • 14:57 UTC 🇫🇮 Finland Iltalehti

Perspective: How does Erika Vikman dare?

Finnish artist Erika Vikman aspires to achieve success abroad, provoking mixed reactions from the public due to her switch from Finnish to English music.

Erika Vikman, a Finnish artist known for her remarkable achievements including representing Finland in international music events, has set her sights on expanding her career beyond her home country. With aspirations to break into the international music scene, she has released a new English song titled 'Father (I Will Never Confess)'. This linguistic shift to English highlights her ambition and the broader appeal she hopes to achieve as she ventures into new markets.

However, Vikman's ambition has stirred controversy and concern among her fellow Finns, reflecting a societal double standard in how artists are perceived when trying to reach for bigger opportunities. While sports figures, such as Finnish football players moving abroad, may not face such harsh criticism, Finnish musicians often encounter skepticism when pursuing international success. Historical grudges against artists aspiring for international recognition suggest a tenuous relationship Finns have with cultural exports, creating an environment where artists like Vikman must navigate public sentiment carefully.

Furthermore, the severe judgment usually directed at musicians trying to break from local traditions adds to the complexity of Vikman's journey. She faces not only the challenges typical of any artist attempting to find success abroad but also the added pressure of defending her choices against the backdrop of national pride. As Vikman forges ahead, her story may serve as a litmus test for other Finnish artists considering similar paths, forcing a reconsideration of how cultural ambitions are received in Finland.

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