Len Hansen is a Norwegian-Canadian artist, musician, songwriter and composer with an impressive career of over 50 years. He has been an important bridge builder between Canada and Norway with his guitar and singing. He has performed at hundreds of concerts in Norway, Europe and Canada, and his performance in Ålesund in the 1970s, together with artists such as Finn Kalvik and Fairport Convention, was even broadcast on NRK TV.
Len Hansen grew up in the heart of "The Folk Music Movement" in the 1960s-1970s in Canada, and his music bears the stamp of the styles of that time. In addition to being a musician and songwriter, he is also an actor, painter and sculptor. He has collaborated with a number of renowned Norwegian artists such as Anne Grete Preus, Steinar Ofsdal, Knut Reiersrud, Hilde Heltberg, Steinar Albrigtsen, Held Hovland, Monika Nordli and The Flying Norwegians with Rune Walle.
Len Hansen's deep connection to his Norwegian roots and family history brought him to Karlsøy, where he discovered the burial place of his grandfather and his two children. This discovery and the strong connection he felt to the place and the local community inspired him to contact the organizers of the Karlsøy Festival and ask to perform there. For Hansen, it would be a great honor to share his music, revive forgotten stories, honor his ancestors and forge new bonds with people he considers part of his extended family.
His journey to Karlsøy was a very personal experience, driven by the desire to connect with his Norwegian roots and family history. On arrival on the remote island in northern Norway, he was overwhelmed by the beauty of the landscape and the warmth of the local community. His offer to perform was enthusiastically received, and Hansen found himself performing his music and sharing his stories with audiences in Karlsøy. People were captivated by his performance, and many were touched by the warm and personal nature of his songs.
During his time in Karlsøy, Hansen was able to form new bonds and friendships, and he felt a deep belonging that had been absent for many years. He was grateful for the opportunity to honor his ancestors, share his music and stories, and be part of the lively and hospitable community. Now we look forward to him finally coming to the festival to share his music with us.
www.reverbnation.com/lenhansen