Leading Man is a Swedish-born artist whose life and music journey have been shaped by his international experiences and passion for connection. Now based in Lisbon, he draws inspiration from the city’s vibrant energy to craft his signature sound—a blend of synthpop, disco, EDM, and 80’s-inspired pop. His music pairs infectious beats with introspective lyrics, offering listeners an emotional yet danceable experience.

Growing up with the simplicity and catchiness of Swedish pop, Leading Man learned to see music as both a craft to refine and a form of personal expression. This belief led him to move to Glasgow in 2007, hoping to develop his music further. However, he found the course disappointing due to its focus on experimental art music, which didn’t align with his goals. Feeling stuck after nine years of chasing a record deal as the sole measure of success, he decided to step away from music.

Seeking a new direction, Leading Man moved to Manchester to study law, having concluded that music might not be a viable career path. While there, he started a long-term relationship and eventually moved back to Sweden with his partner. After the relationship ended, restlessness and a desire for change pushed him to relocate to Lisbon. The vibrant energy of the Portuguese capital reignited his passion for music, and he found himself building a studio and writing songs once again.

Today, Leading Man is happily in a relationship with his husband and their two cats, finding joy and stability in his personal life while pursuing his passion for music.

For Leading Man, personal relationships have always been a source of inspiration. “Feelings and experiences are always on my mind,” he says. His lyrics are deeply personal, reflecting themes of love, heartbreak, and the pursuit of happiness. Though he studied music production at Kulturama and SAE in Stockholm, he credits much of his learning to self-study and YouTube tutorials. A self-described control freak, he has taught himself to produce, write, and sing to maintain complete creative freedom.

Anchored in his love for the 80’s—Eurodisco, electropop, and synthpop—Leading Man infuses his tracks with a melancholic edge and deeply emotional lyrics. While influenced by artists like Robyn, David Guetta, The Weeknd, Lady Gaga, and Sia, he takes pride in creating a sound all his own. “If it sounds good to me, I don’t feel the need to sound like someone else. I make music that I like myself and try to make it so others will too.”

Living in England, Scotland, and Portugal, Leading Man has embraced personal growth and life’s challenges, finding inspiration in every step of the way. His creative process mirrors this evolution: sometimes starting with melodies and chords, other times with lyrics that guide the music’s mood.

Since his return to music, Leading Man has released tracks that linger long after the final note. His mission is clear: to create music that connects, inspires, and resonates, blending emotional depth with infectious rhythms to make listeners feel seen, valued, and less alone.