Laufey is an Icelandic-Chinese singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist known for blending jazz, pop, classical, and bossa nova influences into a modern, nostalgic sound. She gained international recognition in the early 2020s through viral performances and recordings, and has since become one of the most prominent young artists bringing jazz-influenced music to a Gen Z audience.

Background

Laufey’s full name is Laufey Lín Bing Jónsdóttir, and she was born on April 23, 1999, to an Icelandic father and Chinese mother. She grew up between Reykjavík and Washington, D.C., started piano at age four and cello at age eight, and later studied at Berklee College of Music, graduating in 2021.

Music and style

Her music mixes jazz harmony and phrasing with pop songwriting, often described as romantic, cinematic, and retro while still feeling contemporary. She is also a classically trained cellist and often incorporates strings and orchestral textures into her arrangements.

Releases and achievements

Laufey released her debut EP “Typical of Me” in 2021 and her first full-length album “Everything I Know About Love” in 2022. Her second album “Bewitched” (2023) broke streaming records for a jazz album on Spotify and won the Grammy Award for Best Traditional Pop Vocal Album at the 66th Grammys. Her third album, “A Matter of Time,” was released in August 2025, further cementing her status as a leading figure in modern jazz-pop.

Public presence

She has built a large, dedicated fanbase through social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram, where she shares performances and behind-the-scenes content. In addition to sold-out tours, she has appeared on major TV shows and high-profile events such as the Met Gala, highlighting her crossover appeal beyond the jazz world.