Fredrik Friis

Norwegian singer-songwriter (1923–2008) Fredrik FriisBackground informationBorn(1923-04-02)2 April 1923SandefjordDied15 March 2008(2008-03-15) (aged 84)GenresPopOccupationTalent ScoutYears active1940–2008Musical artist Hans Fredrik Friis-Olsen (2 April 1923 – 15 March 2008) was one of Norway's first talent scouts, music managers and producers. He was also a noted composer, lyricist and singer, producing more than 600 songs of his own. Friis was one of the early pioneers in the Norwegian music business, even much underappreciated, discovering artists who would not only plague the national charts, but also seek international fame, at a time when Norway did not have any infrastructure, nor many plans for its music exportation. Most famous is Anita Hegerland. But also famous nationally are Teddy Nelson, Eivind Løberg, Gluntan and Ivar Simastuen. The latter made his recording debut in 1951. Friis was born in Sandefjord, and his musical career started with a local performance when he was five years old. He bought a saxophone and started his first orchestra, Daisy Bell, in 1940. Friis made his first appearance on radio December 7, 1946, and became famous in 1948 with the song "Swin