Hanne Leland on “Nothing At All”: Finding Beauty in the Quiet Moments of Love

With millions of streams and global recognition, Leland reflects on the challenges and joys of staying independent.

Norwegian pop artist Hanne Leland has built a reputation as one of alt-pop’s most honest and versatile voices, with over 17 million Spotify streams and praise from outlets like CLASH, The Line of Best Fit, and Galore. Seamlessly moving between carefree anthems and deeply vulnerable ballads, she connects with listeners through raw storytelling and emotional sincerity. Her latest single, “Nothing At All,” based on her own experience, reveals a softer side of her artistry, celebrating the little moments of everyday love—morning coffee, dancing in the living room, and the deep comfort of a lasting bond. In this interview, Hanne opens up about the inspiration behind “Nothing At All,” the challenges of her journey as an indie artist, and what fans can expect from her upcoming Oslo concert and beyond—including a Christmas album set for release later this year!

How would you describe “Nothing At All” to someone who has not yet heard it? Your song feels so intimate and tender—what inspired you to write such a personal love song at this point in your career?

I’d describe it as mellow, romantic, and warm. It’s a song that celebrates the simple joys of life and the beauty of everyday moments with the one you love. I wanted to capture not the spectacular or dramatic side of love, but the quieter, more grounded kind. The love that comes after time has passed, when the connection feels deep, secure, and safe. The song is very personal as I wrote it about my own relationship.

You’ve said the song is about the joy of little things that make romance so great—morning coffee together, dancing in the living room. Why do you think those everyday details feel so powerful?

I think a lot of people will find this relatable. We often forget to appreciate the little things in life and in love, and my hope is that the song serves as a gentle reminder to pause and really notice them. It’s usually the moments that seem small or insignificant that end up meaning the most.

Sonically, this track is warmer and softer than your summer anthem “Love I’m Looking For.” Was it a conscious decision to show a more vulnerable side with this release?

Yes! I enjoy creating upbeat, feel-good tracks like “Love I’m Looking For”, as well as more tender and vulnerable songs, like my new single “Nothing At All.” I have many sides to me- one is confident and carefree, while another is sensitive, emotional, and sometimes scared. I think it’s important to share different sides of myself.

When did music first enter your life, and at what point did you know it was your passion? If you weren’t making music, what completely different career do you think you’d be in?

I cannot remember a time when I didn’t love music, it’s been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I started singing at a very young age, then moved on to writing poems, little stories, and eventually songs. I think I was about eight when I wrote my first (rather silly) children’s songs. As a teenager, I discovered how freeing it was to put my thoughts into words and express myself through music. It’s been incredibly helpful for my mental health. If I weren’t making music, I think I’d still be writing. Maybe I’d be an author instead?

This year you’ve been putting out song after song—how has it felt to keep that momentum going?

I just love writing songs, and I’m always eager to put out new songs. I love sharing my art, and that’s what keeps me going.

With over 17 million Spotify streams, what has surprised you the most about the way listeners connect to your music?

That we’re all more alike than we often realize. People share far more in common than what separates us. We’ve all felt heartbreak, the thrill of falling in love and the ache of falling out of love. Most of us have experienced loss and grief, but also the incredible joys that make life worth living. When I feel something deeply while writing a song, I trust that others will feel it too.

Touring with artists like Gavin James and All Saints must have been formative—what did you take away from those experiences that you carry into your own shows today?

Touring with them was an incredible, eye-opening experience. They’re true professionals, and I learned so much along the way. What inspired me most was watching how they communicated and connected with the audience, engaging not only through what they said, but also through their movement and presence on stage.

You’ve been praised by outlets like CLASH, The Line of Best Fit, and Galore. How do you balance that external validation with your own inner artistic compass?

I’m working on not relying too much on external validation. Of course, it feels amazing to be recognized, but I try to make sure I validate myself first and foremost. If the media or other people speak positively about my music, that’s a wonderful bonus, but I try not to obsess over it. That said, I won’t lie… it’s always nice to get a good review, hehe!

As a Norwegian pop artist writing for a global audience, how do you think your Scandinavian background shapes your songwriting? Which Norwegian artists have inspired you in your own journey?

I feel like being Scandinavian in the pop scene is definitely a bonus! Historically, Scandinavians have had a huge impact on pop, from ABBA to Max Martin, to Norwegian artists like Aurora and Girl in Red. We really know our pop! I think my background has shaped my songwriting to be very honest and no-nonsense. The production is often quite minimal, with the focus on strong melodies and down-to-earth, authentic lyrics. Aurora, in particular, inspires me a lot, I think she’s an incredible vocalist and songwriter.

You’ve written openly about women’s rights and feminism. How do your activism and your artistry inform one another?

I feel like my activism naturally comes through in my songs. The two are very connected. I’m a passionate person, so it makes sense that my music and my beliefs intertwine. I’ve always been vocal about the things I care about, both through my music and beyond it.

What were some of the biggest challenges you faced early in your career, and how did you overcome them?

Self-doubt has probably been my biggest challenge, especially early in my career, but honestly, it still is. It’s not always easy to believe in yourself. In general, I feel good about who I am, but I also question myself a lot, wondering if I’m good enough or if I’m doing enough.

If you could collaborate with any artist, living or dead, who would it be and why?

Taylor Swift! I’m a huge Swiftie, and think she’s one of the best songwriters the world has ever seen.

You have an Oslo concert coming up on September 6th. What can fans expect from the show?

Lots of energy! I have a great band with me, and we’ll be playing lots ot upbeat, fun tracks that people can dance and sing along to.

What’s the hardest lesson the music industry has taught you that nobody prepared you for and how has that shaped the way you approach your career today?

I think a lot of success in the industry often comes down to nepotism or being backed by a major label. As an indie artist, it can be really tough to compete with that.

What advice would you give to someone who is just starting out and wants to work in the music industry?

I’d advise them to keep going, no matter how difficult things may feel. This journey is a marathon, not a sprint, and overnight success is rare in this industry. I’d also encourage them to stay authentic, and embrace who they are, flaws and all. People love real people!

What’s something about you that might surprise your fans?

That I’ve never studied music in school, maybe? I’m mostly self-taught.

Finally, what kind of stories are you hoping to explore in your next chapter of music after “Nothing At All”?

I’m releasing a Christmas album this November, and I couldn’t be more excited. I’ve always loved the holiday season, I usually start listening to Christmas music as early as October haha. At the same time, I’m writing new songs set for release in 2026. The songs are deeply personal, intimate, and rooted in strong storytelling.