iskelmään

Iskelmään is a genre of Finnish popular music. The term "iskelmä" literally translates to "hit song" in Finnish, and it encompasses a broad range of melodic, often sentimental, songs. Its origins can be traced back to the early 20th century, evolving from folk music, traditional schlagers, and early jazz influences.

The lyrical themes of iskelmä commonly revolve around love, romance, longing, and everyday life experiences, often with a touch of melancholy or nostalgia. The musical style is typically characterized by simple, memorable melodies, straightforward song structures, and often features instruments such as accordion, guitar, bass, and drums. Vocals are usually prominent, conveying the emotional content of the lyrics.

Iskelmään gained significant popularity in Finland throughout the mid to late 20th century, becoming a staple on radio and in public life. While its peak popularity might have passed, it continues to maintain a dedicated audience and has influenced subsequent generations of Finnish musicians. Contemporary artists continue to create and perform iskelmä, often blending its traditional elements with modern production techniques and influences from other genres. The genre remains an important part of Finland's cultural landscape.