Sandhja Kuivalainen, born on March 16, 1991, and professionally known as Sandhja, is a Finnish singer whose captivating voice and international roots have made her a unique figure in the music industry.
Sandhja represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 with her uplifting song “Sing It Away,” showcasing her talent on one of the world’s most prestigious music stages. With a rich cultural heritage, born to an Indo-Guyanese mother and a Finnish father, Sandhja’s music is a beautiful fusion of diverse influences.
Early Career of Sandhja: The Golden Beginning
Sandhja’s musical journey began in earnest with the release of her debut single “Hold Me” on November 15, 2013. This marked the first taste of her debut studio album, which was to follow. Her soulful voice and compelling lyrics quickly caught the attention of the Finnish music scene. On March 7, 2014, she released “Gold,” the second single from her album, further establishing her as a rising star.
The culmination of her early efforts was the release of her debut studio album, “Gold,” on May 23, 2014, through Sony Music Entertainment Finland. The album was a testament to her versatility and skill, blending pop, soul, and R&B elements to create a sound that was uniquely her own.
2015–Present: Eurovision and Beyond
In May 2015, she expanded her repertoire by featuring on Brandon Bauer’s single “The Flavor.” This collaboration showcased her ability to blend seamlessly with other artists and genres. Later that year, on October 30, 2015, she released the single “My Bass,” a track that further highlighted her dynamic range and musical creativity.
Sandhja’s big break came in 2016 when she was announced as one of the 18 competing artists in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK) 2016, the Finnish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest.
On January 12, 2016, the news brought excitement and anticipation among her growing fan base. Sandhja competed in the third semi-final and advanced to the final, where her song “Sing It Away” won the jury vote and placed third with the public, securing her spot as Finland’s representative at Eurovision.
Performing first in the first semi-final on May 10, 2016, at the Ericsson Globe in Stockholm, Sweden, Sandhja’s performance was energetic and uplifting, capturing the essence of her song’s message. Despite her spirited performance, she did not qualify for the final. Nevertheless, her participation in Eurovision brought her international recognition and solidified her place in the music industry.
In 2016, she released her second studio album, “Freedom Venture,” on April 29. The album was a reflection of her personal and artistic growth, featuring a mix of powerful anthems and soulful ballads.
Sandhja’s Impact and Inspiration
Her journey from her debut single to the Eurovision stage is a story of perseverance, talent, and cultural fusion. Her music is not just a reflection of her diverse heritage but also an inspiration for many young artists. She stands as a testament to the power of embracing one’s roots while reaching for global success.
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