Sven Arefeldt
Sven Allan Amandus Arefeldt, originally born Forsberg, was a prominent Swedish musician, singer, and composer, born on December 29, 1908, in Stockholm, Sweden. He passed away on August 17, 1956, in Lindesberg, Sweden, where he is also buried. Arefeldt was a significant figure in the Swedish jazz scene during the 1930s and was known for his deep voice and relaxed manner, earning him the nickname "Gubben."
He began his musical journey with the violin but soon switched to the piano. At the age of 15, he formed his first jazz orchestra, TOGO (The Original Green Orchestra). Throughout the late 1920s and 1930s, Arefeldt played with various jazz orchestras in Stockholm, becoming one of the country's most renowned jazz musicians.
In 1937, Arefeldt joined the record label Sonora, where he was influenced by Fats Waller and began recording comedic and novelty songs. He also hosted a popular radio program, "Sven Arefeldt leker på pianot" ("Sven Arefeldt Plays With The Piano"). During the 1940s and 1950s, he composed and arranged music for several films and was involved in various musical collaborations and recordings.
Some of his popular recordings include "I en roddbåt till Kina," "Hjärtats röst," "Tre små sillar," and "Jag fick en kyss till god natt." Additionally, Arefeldt provided the voice for the Cheshire Cat in the Swedish dub of Disney's "Alice in Wonderland" (1951).
Arefeldt's contributions to music extended beyond recordings, as he performed in nightclubs and hotels, and toured with various musical ensembles, including the Harmony Sisters and Yngve Stoors orchestra. His legacy as a pioneer in Swedish jazz and entertainment remains influential.