Though he's based out in Stockholm, Christian Olsson's music is quickly gaining transcontinental recognition. Following the release of his summertime hit "Hold On" featuring fellow Swedish artist Mapei, the multi-instrumental songwriter and producer released his EP of the same title back in August. We talked with him about the album, how he started producing music, and his upcoming cheese label.

Hometown: Stockholm, Sweden

How would you describe your music to people who had never heard it before?

Its like John Lennon on speed waking up from the dead in Manchester 1992. It´s dirty housepianos, groovy beats, gospel and simple melodies. It´s the best thing you've heard since you were a kid.

Who are some of your musical influences?

I grew up in the '90s era being absolutely mad about the groove from the Madchester and Hacienda scene with Stone Roses, Happy Mondays and Primal Scream as my house gods. I´m also mad about gospel, Nina Simone, Grace Jones, Wu-Tang Clan, Kanye West, Dennis Wilson, The Pharcyde, Mike Skinner and Disclosure. It´s all a big musical cocktail.

What's life like for an up-and-coming musician in 2016?

I feel it's an era of no genres, no rules and complete freedom. Pretty much everybody can get a laptop and create a record. It all comes down to what you have to say and to find your own expression. I find it bloody inspiring, but I know a lot of people are freaking out about it.

Can you explain how you chose your stage name?

It´s pretty easy — OLSSON is my last name, which is the Swedish equivalent of the surname "Smith." It translates as quite simply "Son of Royalty," which has got everything and nothing to do with me.

How did you get your start?

For the last couple of years I've been having a folder in my laptop called SOLO mostly with ideas comprised of Madchester style beats and images taken from early '90s raves in my hometown Gothenburg. I started seeing visuals with strong and bright colours. I wanted to make music out of that illusion. The only thing I new in the beginning was that I wanted to sound like nothing out there.

How did your unique sound come about?

It took me ages to transfer the sound and ideas in my head to actual tracks. But my music is really all about the songs, the sound itself is only about finding the right costume and mood. I've had a vision of making a soundtrack to your 3pm party after a couple of cocktails. When you're hopeful, excited and life feels like a playground. And you are not sure what the fuck is going to happen next. It's all of that and years of hard work. The best thing about music is that you can't control it. What comes out, comes out and this is what I got.

What's the coolest experience you’ve had so far?

That's a tough question. Let's limit ourselves to this album process. I've been obsessed with gospel choirs since I was a kid and I knew I had to have it on my record. By pure luck I ran into Eska Mtungwazi who put together a choir of Vula Malinga (Basement Jaxx, Sam Smith), Adeleye Omotayo (Amy Whinehouse) and Sam White (Florence & the Machine). I recorded them during a session in the magic Sleeper Sound studios in London. I was in heaven and cried during most of the recordings.

What's something you've learned in your time as a musician?

It's all about understanding your limitations. Surround yourself with amazing people. And then create music with them. Be nice and humble but don't back off from your vision. Also music is a pure drug to me but I've learned how to deal with it to not overdose.

Are there any specific goals that you have in mind?

I've always dreamed about doing an album with Phil Collins on the drums. I heard he quit doing music, so I might have to find another dream. But I still believe we would create a pretty hot duo...

What's the songwriting process like for you?

I'm a melody hunter. I chase it 24/7. So for me that's how it always starts. First melody, then a beat. If I manage to dance to the track for six hours on repeat and still love it, I know it's a keeper.

If there's one thing you wish everyone on the planet knew about you, what would it be?

I'm about to start my own cheese label cause I'm mad about cheese. Any suggestions for a good label name please?

Is there anything else you’d like to add?

Check out the track Virile by The Blaze if you haven't heard it. It will change your day.

For more profiles on up-and-coming artists, visit our Artist of the Day page.