A Swedish pop star who blends the gritty sound of American urban R&B with the sunny pop of her homeland, Robyn found a hit with "Do You Know (What It Takes)," which hit the Top Ten around the world including the U.S. Born Robyn Carlsson in Stockholm in 1979, she traveled around the continent with her parents' traveling theatre group, also listening to classic American soul on the hi-fi. After writing her first song at the age of 11 when her parents divorced, Robyn got her break when national talent Meja heard her singing during a concert intermission. Meja got her a record contract with Sweden's Richochet Records, which released her first hit single "Do You Really Want Me." Though she was still only 16, Robyn began recording her debut album in 1995, and Robyn Is Here quickly topped the Swedish charts. When the album was released in the U.S. almost a year and a half later, the single "Do You Know (What It Takes)" hit the Top Ten. ~ John Bush, All Music Guide
