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Finnish pop star Robin Packalen dives into his electrifying India tour with Alan Walker, sharing his awe of the Himalayas, the thrill of collaborating with an icon, and memories of bringing back a Kochi carpet.
Exclusive interview with Finnish pop star Robin Packalen as he discusses his India tour with Alan Walker, breathtaking Himalayan views, and his love for Indian culture.
Finnish pop sensation Robin Packalen is no stranger to breaking boundaries and blending worlds, but his latest endeavor—collaborating with electronic music icon Alan Walker—has the global music scene buzzing. In this exclusive interview with News18 Showsha, Robin takes us behind the scenes of their track, that got released on November 11, promising fans a nostalgic blend of Walker’s signature melodies with a fresh twist. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Touring alongside Walker in India, Robin’s experiencing a thrilling immersion into Indian music, culture, and of course, local adventures, like snapping up a Kochi carpet that now graces his kitchen back home.
For Robin, this tour is more than just another gig; it’s a chance to connect with an audience halfway across the world, with memorable moments from island hopping in Kochi to glimpsing the Himalayas from above. And while he’s excited about blending Finnish and Indian sounds in future music, he’s equally thrilled by the universal language of music that unites fans across continents. His journey from a 10-year-old talent show winner to an international pop artist is a testament to following one’s passion, staying grounded, and embracing life’s surprises along the way. As he steps onto the Indian stage, Robin is not just performing—he’s creating new memories and sounds that will echo across borders.
Here are the excerpts:
Q: Your collaboration with Alan Walker is one of the most anticipated releases this year. How did this partnership come about, and what can fans expect from the track releasing on November 11?
Robin Packalen: We first met in Finland about four years ago when Alan was promoting a song called “Paradise.” He was set to perform it on Finnish television but needed someone to sing it live, so he reached out to me! I’m so glad he did because that kicked off what’s become a close friendship. The song we’re releasing now is a dynamic rollercoaster of emotions. It has those classic Alan Walker melodies but with a nostalgic twist that’s a bit of a throwback to his earlier sound. Fans can expect a blast from the past in the best way possible!
Q: You’ve been performing across India as part of the Walkerworld Tour. How has the Indian audience reacted to your music, and what has surprised you most about the crowds here?
Robin Packalen: I haven’t had much time to catch up on comments or reactions online, but I can tell you firsthand that the crowd’s response at the shows has been unforgettable. When I get on stage with Alan, it’s like instant energy. I can see the smiles and feel the positive vibes. I love that my energy resonates with the audience, and it feels like we’re in sync, just creating good vibes together.
Q: What was it like working with Alan Walker on the creative process? Did you discover any new sides to your own music style through this collaboration?
Robin Packalen: Alan’s incredibly hands-on with his music, and he’s deeply involved in the production process. He’s always creating these beautiful, timeless melodies. I’ve been inspired by watching him juggle everything, from music to constant travel, while keeping his vision crystal clear. Working with him has given me new insights, especially on how to make a concept come to life in ways I hadn’t thought of before.
Q: This is your first major tour in India. What are some of your most memorable experiences in cities like Mumbai, Delhi NCR, and Bengaluru?
Robin Packalen: Kochi was a standout because we actually had time to explore the city! We even did some island hopping by ferry. The crew and I stopped by a handmade carpet shop, and we all ended up buying carpets—I even have mine in my kitchen now, haha. The shows were amazing, of course, but some of the best memories happened off-stage.
Q: India has a rich and diverse musical culture. Have you had a chance to explore Indian music or local artists? If so, which ones caught your attention?
Robin Packalen: Not as much as I’d like, but I got to see some big names on stage with Alan, like Pritam, Alia Bhatt, and Guru Randhawa. It’s been a fantastic way to get a taste of India’s diverse music scene!
Q: How do you see the Indian music scene compared to that in Finland or the rest of Europe? What aspects of Indian culture have resonated with you the most?
Robin Packalen: What really stands out to me in Indian music is the melodies—they’re vibrant and textured in ways that feel totally unique. There’s so much diversity in Indian music that I haven’t encountered anywhere else, and that’s been amazing to experience.
Q: You’ve mentioned potential collaborations with Indian artists like Armaan Malik and Badshah. How do you think your sound will blend with the unique styles of these artists?
Robin Packalen: I feel like my sound has its own distinct vibe, so it could mesh really well with their unique styles. It would be interesting to see how our sounds blend and create something fresh.
Q: You won the Staraskaba contest at just 10 years old, and soon after represented Finland at the New Wave Junior Contest in Moscow. How did these experiences shape your early perspective on the music industry?
Robin Packalen: Those early experiences gave me the confidence I needed to keep pursuing music. Winning those contests and getting positive feedback made me feel ready to start sharing my music online. It was the foundation that helped me get noticed in the industry.
Q: Your debut single, “Frontside Ollie,” catapulted you to fame and earned comparisons to Justin Bieber. How did you handle such rapid success as a teenager, and what did you learn from it?
Robin Packalen: It was honestly kind of funny. I was only 13, and I had no expectations. I remember thinking it was amazing to have that level of success with my first single. People in Finland are quite reserved, so it wasn’t overwhelming or disruptive. I still went to school like any other kid, kept my same group of friends, and lived with my parents until I was 18. My life stayed pretty normal, which I think helped me handle the fame in a healthy way.
Q: When you look back at your early albums like Koodi and Chillaa, what do you remember most about that time in your life? How have you evolved as an artist since then?
Robin Packalen: I can recognize myself in those early albums, but I’m also a completely different person now. I’ve gained so much experience and grown in ways that make me feel like I’m 95% different. I still love to keep things simple and fun, though. Music is a big part of my life, but it’s not my entire world—I have other things that I love just as much.
Q: After your initial rise in the Finnish music scene, you took a hiatus to serve in the military. How did that break influence your music and your outlook on your career?
Robin Packalen: Military service didn’t really influence my music directly, but it was an experience in normality that I appreciated. It’s mandatory in Finland, so I went in, made some great friends, and enjoyed just being another guy without special treatment. It was refreshing to focus on who I am outside of music.
Q: You made a comeback in 2019 with “I’ll Be with You.” What was the driving force behind your return, and how did it feel to be back on stage after a few years away?
Robin Packalen: I was terrified! The night before the show, I was worried—what if I didn’t have it in me anymore? But 15 minutes before stepping on stage, I felt this calmness I hadn’t experienced before. I knew I was exactly where I was supposed to be. The stage has always felt like home to me.
Q: Your music has transitioned from teen pop to a more mature and diverse sound. What has been the biggest challenge in reinventing yourself, and how do you stay true to your artistic vision?
Robin Packalen: I’ve always followed what feels right to me. Life is too short not to try new things, even if it means making a few mistakes along the way. My music is like a diary—there are typos and mishaps, but it’s all part of the story.
Q: You recently competed in the Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2023 with “Girls Like You,” finishing fourth. How did participating in the competition influence your music and your connection with your fans?
Robin Packalen: The engagement from fans was insane! The Eurovision community is so passionate, and I loved every bit of it. If I had the chance, I’d do it again. The whole experience, from perfecting the performance to interacting with fans, was incredibly inspiring.
Q: With over 370,000 certified sales in Finland, what do you consider your most significant musical achievement so far?
Robin Packalen: I feel like my biggest achievement is still coming. So far, my greatest achievement has been staying curious and grounded through it all, thanks to the amazing support from fans. I don’t worry much about numbers or awards; it’s about the journey for me.
Q: You’ve had successful collaborations with artists like Mikael Gabriel and Uniikki in the past. How do you approach creating music with other artists?
Robin Packalen: When I collaborate, I’m not just bringing two artists together; I’m looking to mix our styles and create something new. Collaborations open your mind to different ways of making music, and that’s exciting for me.
Q: Besides the track with Alan Walker, what other projects are you excited about in the coming months? Any hints about new music or collaborations?
Robin Packalen: There’s definitely more music on the way, and next year, my second international album will be out!
Q: With your growing fanbase in India, do you have plans to do more performances here or even explore music that blends Indian and Finnish influences?
Robin Packalen: I hope to be back soon! I’d love to explore more of India and even experiment with blending Indian and Finnish sounds.
Q: What emotions do you hope your new releases bring to listeners as you reach new audiences globally?
Robin Packalen: I want my music to be a form of “assisted thinking,” helping listeners tap into feelings and thoughts that might be hard to express.
Q: What has been the biggest cultural difference you’ve experienced between Finland and India?
Robin Packalen: The traffic! You guys must be expert drivers to navigate Indian roads. I also experienced India’s first drone show, which was incredible. And I’ll never forget seeing the Himalayas from the plane—truly breathtaking.
Q: If you could collaborate with any Indian artist, past or present, who would it be and why?
Robin Packalen: Right now, I’d say Pritam. I met him in Delhi, and he seemed like a really genuine, down-to-earth guy. He has a great energy, and I think his musical style would blend beautifully with mine. Pritam’s versatility and deep understanding of Indian melodies would add a whole new dimension to anything we’d create together. Collaborating with him could be something really special, merging my sound with that distinct Indian flavor he’s so known for.
Q: Music aside, what’s something you’ve discovered about India that you’re taking back with you—be it a favorite dish, a place, or a local tradition?
Robin Packalen: I have to say, the moment we were flying from Shillong to Delhi and saw the Himalayas was the most beautiful thing I’ve ever witnessed. It’s an image I’ll carry with me forever. But if you’re asking what I’ll physically take back, then it’s definitely the carpet I bought in Kochi—it’s already found a place in my kitchen, and every time I see it, I remember that incredible day of exploring.
Q: Are there any musical genres or styles you haven’t explored yet but are interested in incorporating into your sound in the future?
Robin Packalen: I’ve experimented with a lot of different genres over the years—from pop and electronic to rap and even some metal influences. The one I haven’t fully explored yet, though, is Indian music. The sounds, instruments, and textures are so rich, and I think there’s a lot of potential there for something exciting and fresh. Indian music would be an amazing style to delve into and would definitely bring something unique to my work.
Q: Having been in the music industry from a young age, what advice would you give to young artists trying to make a name for themselves today?
Robin Packalen: My biggest advice would be to keep the people close who’ve been with you from the start—family, friends, the ones who are there for you regardless of success. Also, don’t forget to take breaks! Having a hobby or interest outside of music is important; it keeps you balanced and helps you recharge. Mine are paragliding and sailing, for instance. And remember, making a name for yourself is a marathon, not a sprint. The industry can be intense, so take it slow, stay curious, and enjoy the ride.