Mari Boine received the honorary award from Musikkforleggerne. She is a Knight First Class of the Order of St. Olav, an honorary doctor, and has won several Spellemann prizes.
' Hellesby added, 'She has not only created a unique artistry, but also moved boundaries. ' She also said there was never any doubt in the jury when Boine was mentioned for the award. Boine has been a prominent figure for over 40 years and has toured the world with her music.
Oh my God, I was just supposed to be here and watch you others get awards, I have been thoroughly tricked.
At the start of her career, conditions were tough as a Sami artist, with even the local shop not accepting and selling her first CDs. Her international reach includes fans like Gabriel Vaneges in Colombia, who has been part of her fan base since her debut album in 1989. ' At the award ceremony, Kristoffer Loe performed a version of Boine's song Vuoi Vuoi Mu as a surprise to her.
Loe heard that Boine has recently been very fond of listening to punk and harder music, so he created his own version incorporating those elements.
I am incredibly grateful for this, grateful that I have been given my voice as a gift that has taken me on a journey for over 40 years.