Little Dragon Biography

Little Dragon is a Swedish electronic music group fronted by female vocalist Yukimi Nagano.

Early Formation

The band was formed in 1996 in Sweden where teenager and vocalist Yukimi Nagano would meet with drummer Erik Bodin and bassist Fredrik Källgren Wallin after school to practice. They would focus on their music and tour Europe for several years.

Career Beginnings

They made their debut with the single Test in 2006 followed by several other singles like Twice, Constant Surprises, After the Rain and Fortune. Little Dragon was signed to Peacefrog Records the following year and released their debut self-titled album. The single Twice was used as a soundtrack on Grey’s Anatomy between 2008 and 2009. In 2009 Machine Dreams was issued, drawing inspiration from the new wave.

Success

The group was invited to be featured guests on Gorillaz’s 2010 album Plastic Beach and then invited to join them on tour. During the same time keyboardist, Arild Werling joined the band on their live performances. While on the road, the band managed to make another LP entitled Ritual Union. It broke various US charts and Little Dragon was exposed to the mainstream. After a break, the Janet Jackson-inspired 4th album was issued in the UK and the US as Nabuma Rubberband in 2014. It was nominated for a Grammy award for Best Dance/Electronic Album. Little Dragon announced the arrival of a new musical endeavor with Season High, set for release on the 14th of April 2017. The following two singles were revealed High and Sweet.

Photo credit: Pitchfork