Since her breakthrough with her second album, "Och vinnaren är...", in 2008, Veronica Maggio has been a mainstay of the Swedish music scene. In a press release, she says it feels "really nice" to receive the scholarship named after Ulla Billquist.
"She had a strong sense of lyrics and storytelling that made her so special. In the next round, we’ll raise a toast to you, Ulla," says Maggio.
The award is presented by Folkets hus och parker (Sweden’s people’s houses and parks association) to a female artist who enriches the Swedish music scene through her artistry. Over the years, artists such as Carola, Robyn and First Aid Kit have received the scholarship.
"Her songs capture everyday emotions - love, longing, friendship, loss and hope - and her music has become an integral part of the Swedish music scene," the jury writes in its citation for Veronica Maggio.
The scholarship is named after Ulla Billquist, best known for the wartime song "Min soldat". Despite her success as an artist, she had a difficult private life. She took her own life in 1946 at the age of 38.
The scholarship recipient receives 30,000 kronor (about $2,900).
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