Norwegian Music Legend Dag Spantell Passes Away at 75
Dag Aage Spantell, a beloved figure in Norwegian music, has died at the age of 75 after a battle with cancer. The news, confirmed on November 30, 2025, has prompted an outpouring of grief from fellow musicians and fans across the country.
A Career Spanning Decades
Spantell’s musical journey began in his youth, forming the instrumental band Beatboys at the age of twelve, inspired by The Shadows. He later joined The Misfits in 1964 and co-founded Happie in 1967, writing many of his own songs. His early perform showed a clear influence from The Beatles and the psychedelic sounds of the era. He first appeared on television with Happie in 1968 with their song “Flowergirl.”
While considering retirement from music in 1969 and training as a cook, Spantell continued to perform, notably as the lead singer of Kjell Karlsens Orkester. This period saw him achieve widespread recognition with the 1973 hit “Kjendis-party,” a Norwegian translation of Ricky Nelson’s “Garden Party,” which reached No. 4 on the Norsktoppen chart.
The “Treff” Years and Continued Success
Spantell’s popularity soared in the 1970s, particularly through his involvement with the “Treff” series. From 1975 to 1978, he was a key member of På Treff-gang, alongside Inger Lise Rypdal, Stein Ingebrigtsen and Gro Anita Schønn. The group released nine albums featuring Norwegian-language covers of international hits. He also had a No. 1 hit in 1975 with “En helt alminnelig sang om sommer.”
Throughout the decade, Spantell toured extensively and participated four times in the Norwegian Eurovision Song Contest selection process. He also spent time as the lead singer of another dance band, Torry Enghs.
A Lasting Legacy and Fond Memories
Friends and colleagues have shared heartfelt tributes following Spantell’s passing. Stein Ingebrigtsen described Spantell as a “twinsoul” and a lifelong friend, recalling their shared humor and close bond. Ingebrigtsen and Spantell collaborated on a final recording, “Hjertet til en spellemann,” in 2016.
Spantell’s passing was marked by a bisatt (funeral) at Vestre Gravlund in Oslo, attended by many who knew and admired him. Musicians and friends like Anne Lise Gjøstøl, Anne-Karine Strøm, Freddy Dahl, and Gudny Aspaas were among those who gathered to pay their respects.
He is remembered not only for his musical talent but also for his kindness and generosity. Many recall his support for fellow artists, such as his care for Gro Anita Schønn during her illness.
“Sol” – A Song That Defined a Generation
Beyond his chart-topping hits, Spantell is fondly remembered as the voice behind “Sol,” a song instantly recognizable for its opening lines: “God dag, god dag, dette her er meteorologisk institutt” (Good day, good day, this is the meteorological institute).
Dag Spantell: Frequently Asked Questions
What was Dag Spantell’s biggest hit?
“Kjendis-party,” a Norwegian cover of Ricky Nelson’s “Garden Party,” was one of his most popular songs, reaching No. 4 on the Norsktoppen chart.
What was På Treff-gang?
På Treff-gang was a popular group of four singers – Dag Spantell, Inger Lise Rypdal, Stein Ingebrigtsen, and Gro Anita Schønn – who released nine albums of Norwegian-language cover songs between 1975 and 1978.
When did Dag Spantell pass away?
Dag Spantell passed away on November 30, 2025, at the age of 75.
What genre of music did Dag Spantell perform?
Spantell performed a variety of genres, including pop, dance band music, and covers of international hits translated into Norwegian.
