The Iskelmä Finlandia award for 2025, presented at the Tapsan Tahdit festival, has been granted to Mikael Forsby, best known as a founding member and musical leader of Portion Boys. Forsby receives the award in recognition of his significant and versatile contributions to Finnish schlager and pop music, as well as his ability to connect generations and musical styles in a timely and relevant way.
– Mikael Forsby’s work has brought Finnish schlager to the playlists of new audiences. His modern arrangements and catchy productions have made traditional schlager approachable for new generations, who have discovered the magic of schlager in a new light within pop music. Collaborations with schlager legends such as Matti and Teppo, Kake Randelin, and Eini demonstrate Forsby’s desire to build a bridge from tradition to the future – musically, visually, and in attitude, says Aki Karjalainen, chair of the award jury.
Mikael Forsby wrote his first song at the age of 13. Over the past 15 years, Portion Boys has become one of Finland’s most well-known and beloved bands, earning numerous platinum records, chart-topping hits, and radio success. As a founding member of the group, Forsby composes, plays, sings, and produces music.
The Iskelmä Finlandia award can be given either to a distinguished performer with a long career or to a younger artist who has shown strong promise and high potential.
– Mikael Forsby meets both of these criteria. He has already produced multiple hit songs and has also created a unique new legacy and continuity for schlager and pop music moving forward, says Aki Karjalainen.
Iskelmä Finlandia Award Winners: Mikael Forsby (2025), Mariska (2024), Tuure Kilpeläinen (2023), Mikko Alatalo (2022), Arja Koriseva (2021), Vicky Rosti (2019), Danny (2018), Markku Aro (2017), Suvi Teräsniska (2016), Pate Mustajärvi (2015), Katri Helena (2014), Pave Maijanen (2012), Pepe Willberg (2011), Laura Voutilainen (2010), Charles Plogman (2009), Olli Lindholm (2008), Eino Grön (2007), Paula Koivuniemi (2006), Jari Sillanpää (2005), Matti ja Teppo (2004), Kari Tapio (2003), Marion Rung (2002), and Antti Huovila (2001). The award was not presented in 2013 and 2020.
Tapsan Tahdit Festival – 31 July – 2 August at Pirkkala Square and Tehdassaari, Nokia
Tapsan Tahdit offers three days of singing, dancing, and concerts by top artists. On Friday, the performers include Emeliina Virtanen, Anssi Kela, Elastinen, and DJ ICE K. Saturday daytime features children’s programming during the Onnimanni Day with a performance by Mirkka and Luis. The evening concert begins with Jukka Poika, followed by Irina, and concludes with entertainment from Teflon Brothers. The daytime programme, which is free of charge, is centered in Tehdassaari.
More information: https://www.tapsantahdit.fi/
Article photo: Mikael Forsby / Portion Boys.
