J. Karjalainen

First seen on the Ilosaarirock stage back in 1983, J. Karjalainen is a true living legend of Finnish music. Period. J’s music is so deeply woven into the fabric of our lives that his lyrics and melodies have become part of Finnish DNA. Luckily for us, this legend refuses to slow down, continuing to tell timely stories through his new songs.

Having adapted American musical traditions to Finnish sensibilities, J. has always been in a class of his own, no matter which corner of the musical treasure chest he’s exploring. Will his Ilosaarirock performance feature classic hits, new tracks, or a mix of rarer tunes? Who knows. What’s certain is that in the beauty of Laulurinne on a summer day, the community sing-along will fill the air—and absolutely anything could happen.