Dagbladet 130725
By: Björn Brånfelt
For the first time in Sundsvall: BAO with Helen Sjöholm.
– To get to sing with these guys at home in Sundsvall will be special, Helen Sjöholm says about the gig tonight.
Artist Helen Sjöholm, born and raised in Sundsvall, was discovered by Björn Ulvaeus and – Benny Andersson.
She got the part, and her big break, as Kristina in their musical “Kristina” (1995-1999), in competition with thousands of other applicants.
Benny Andersson, that’s who.
It was he who wrote BAO’s Swedish record top chart song “You are my man” which Helen Sjöholm sang.
– He’s great to work with, but everyone in this gang are, says Helen Sjöholm.
Benny Andersson Band consists of 16 people – where beloved artists Kalle Moraeus and Tommy Körberg are included – and do eight shows including the premiere in Gothenburg on July 18. They bring their own dance floor.
– It’s a special tour because we play for a dancing audience, says Helen Sjöholm.
– It’s like a dance orchestra evening from the 1920-1930’s, she says.
The gig tonight is still something extra:
– I’ve never sung with BAO in Sundsvall before, that makes it extra fun, says Helen Sjöholm.
– I have also rediscovered Norra Berget, which is an amazing place. I usually go to the lookout tower or Grankotten when I’m in Sundsvall.
Are you home in Sundsvall often?
– Quite often. I still have family and friends in Sundsvall.
She says she is left in peace during her visits.
– Sometimes I get recognized in town but people are generally nice.
Benny Andersson Band has a long list of hits behind them – and quite a few of them they will perform.
Do you sing “You are my man”?
– Of course. But not only that – and not just hits. We have so much more in the repertoire, says Helen Sjöholm.