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Galantis
Galantis
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Galantis is a Swedish electronic music act consisting of producer Christian "Bloodshy" Karlsson. Formerly, they were a duo, alongside rising musician Style of Eye, until he decided to part ways with the project shortly after their second album The Aviary in 2017. However, he made appearances in live performances and music videos as part of the project up until 2021.

Key Information

Galantis had their first international success with "Runaway (U & I)" released in 2014, followed by "Peanut Butter Jelly" and "No Money".

Members

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Christian Karlsson

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Christian "Bloodshy" Karlsson has worked as part of the production duo Bloodshy & Avant and the Swedish indie pop band Miike Snow.[1] Karlsson has co-written and co-produced tracks for artists such as Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Kylie Minogue and Madonna. Specifically, Karlsson co-wrote the Britney Spears single "Toxic", which eventually earned an Ivor Novello award (for songwriting and composition) and a Grammy for Best Dance Recording.[1] Karlsson is also a founding member of Swedish artist collective and record label Ingrid.

Linus Eklöw (former member)

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Linus Eklöw, known by his stage name Style of Eye, co-wrote and produced Icona Pop's song "I Love It" featuring Charli XCX. Eklöw, a Sundsvall-born and Stockholm-based DJ and producer, resides in the techno genre and comes from the underground scene. He explores a range of musical styles, from techno to house via distinct percussion and minimal, floating melodies. After growing up in a jazz and soul oriented family and playing a drumkit at age 10, Eklöw transitioned to electronic music after getting his first computer aged 15 and making "weird downtempo dubbeat and trip hop". DJing upbeat drum and bass followed at 16, and Linus moved into studio production with releases and remixes on such labels as Classic Recordings, Tiny Sticks and Rabid Records.[2]

History

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2007–2012: Early career

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The duo initially met by chance at Karlsson's Robotberget studios in Stockholm, sometime in 2007. In 2009, Karlsson's band Miike Snow asked Eklöw, who produces and DJs as Style of Eye, to remix their song "Animal". After that, the two started hanging out in the studio together, playing each other songs and scraps of ideas. Explaining what drew him to Eklöw, Karlsson says, "He's an amazing programmer and designer of soundscapes. It was artsy, in a way. He was different."[3]

There were many unfinished ideas that the pair fiddled with and then abandoned, but it wasn't until sometime in 2012 that things really came together, when they stopped the loop-based and software approach common in modern dance music, and switched to Karlsson's usual method of beginning a song on guitar or piano. The duo figured out their own approach—once they create a foundation with a simple arrangement, they build it up with stirring keyboards, monumental drums, imploring vocals and inventive flourishes. "We keep the song naked, and when we feel like we have the right one, we put some clothes on it and see how it feels," says Karlsson.[4] "We realized, this is Galantis, this is our band," Karlsson adds.[4]

2013–2014: "You", "Smile", Galantis EP, "Runaway (U & I)", and international breakthrough

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The duo signed to Atlantic Records' dance imprint Big Beat Records in mid-2013. Recording in a studio in the Swedish archipelago in the Baltic Sea, the duo began to focus heavily on their artistic direction. They opt to combine the excitement and big energy of electronic music with meaningful songwriting. The first composition they agreed upon was "Smile". After that, their direction became clear. "We felt the urge to fill the dance world up with songs and with songwriting that created our sound," says Eklöw.[5]

Karlsson has said: "We always start with the song. We use guitar, piano, and bass lines we don't keep to figure out which clothes we're going to put on each melody and lyric. I think that's different than a lot of others in the dance scene. They have a beat they love and then force a top line on top of it. I feel like that makes it sound like a remix. I'd rather do it our way, it's more fun too."[6] The first single with Big Beat Records, "Smile", was released that following November. Its controversial video premiered on Stereogum.[7] "Smile" received several remixes from various artists, and an extended mix by dance music heavyweight Kaskade.[8]

"Smile" also marked the first instance of the "Seafox", a creature that is the brainchild of visual artist Mat Maitland. The "Seafox" is the Galantis mascot, appearing in their videos, cover art and their live show.[9]

In February, the duo released their second single "You".[10] The track was subsequently played heavily during Ultra Music Festival and Miami Music Week,[11] becoming the 8th most Shazamed track at the festival.[12] Their debut self-titled EP Galantis was released on 1 April 2014.[13]

Galantis had international success with their single "Runaway (U & I)", which debuted on 5 October 2014. The single is the second single from their debut album Pharmacy. The song subsequently went to the top of Spotify's Global and US Viral charts[14] and became a top 10 Spotify track in the Netherlands, Belgium and Finland. In America, the track peaked at number 1 on the Billboard Twitter Emerging Artists chart.[15] "Runaway (U & I)" has been certified Gold in Finland, 3× Gold in the Netherlands and Platinum in Norway and Sweden.[16] Galantis released the single "Gold Dust" on 19 February 2015, through Stereogum and reached number 1 on Hype Machine's Popular Chart.[17]

Karlsson and Eklöw said: "When we started Galantis, we set out to challenge each other and experiment with all of the sounds and ideas that we find exciting. We built a studio on a small island in the Baltic Sea and our surroundings became a source of inspiration for the EP."[18]

The first song, "Smile", has been featured by Kaskade, Diplo, Tiesto, Dada Life, Steve Angello, and Pete Tong, who featured it as an "Essential Tune", a feature on his BBC Radio 1 show. Their single "You" follows with a piano and vocal hook with the custom "Galantis filter", which blends male and female vocals together. Their song "Revolution" contains synths and a beat with an intended message of never giving up on your ambitions. "Help" follows and builds a piano melody into an anthem of resiliency. "Friend (Hard Times)" pairs a vocal with a deep house groove, while "The Heart That I'm Hearing" contains synths and a skittering rhythm.[19]

2015: Pharmacy

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Galantis released their debut album Pharmacy on 8 June 2015.[20] The album was available for pre-order on 20 April 2015. The album features the four singles "You" (from their first EP), "Runaway (U & I)", "Gold Dust", and "Peanut Butter Jelly". The 13-track album is the first LP from Galantis. The duo uploaded each song to their YouTube channel with alternate artworks for each track. The seventh track "Kill 'Em With The Love" is the only track with the seafox from the album cover. Whilst "Firebird" shares one with their most recognisable single, "Runaway (U & I)".[21] On 21 May 2015, Galantis began their summer tour in support of Pharmacy which ended on 6 August 2015.[22] There were 22 dates on the tour in total, with various performances in multiple continents including Europe and North America, and each performance was for some kind of music festival.[23]

2016–2017: The Aviary

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On 1 April 2016, the pair released the single "No Money", which became their first single to debut on the US Billboard Hot 100.[24] On 5 August 2016, they released the standalone single "Make Me Feel" for the soundtrack to Netflix's original film, XOXO. This song later became one of the most popular songs on the billboard hot 100, reaching the top 50.

On 30 September 2016, Galantis and Hook N Sling released the collaborative single "Love on Me" followed by a music video for the track on 4 October 2016, directed by Dano Cerny. On 15 December 2016, they released a lyric video for "Pillow Fight", which the band has said "brings back the original Galantis heart and roots." On 16 February 2017, the duo released the single "Rich Boy" along with a lyric video directed by We Wrk Wknds. On 5 May 2017, the duo released the single "Hunter", to be accompanied by a music video which has already been filmed.[25] On 11 July 2017, it was announced on social media that Galantis' second studio album would be titled The Aviary, accompanied by the release of another single titled "True Feeling".[26][27]

2018–2020: Church

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On 19 April 2018, Galantis was quoted in an interview with Las Vegas Weekly, stating that "we have new music coming out very soon. We're excited to let it free for the world."[28] Subsequently, on 14 May 2018, the duo teased the release of their new single, "Spaceship" featuring Uffie, by posting a collage of all previous album covers, followed by a question mark. The posts[29] and subsequent comments across social channels indicated that Galantis would premiere the song during their set at Hangout Music Festival, on 18 May 2018. On 16 May 2018, the group decided to release the single's album art on social accounts to further promote the song's release date. On 13 July 2018, the group released 2 songs called "Satisfied" featuring MAX and "Mama Look at Me Now" with a new album art cover of the seafox. In January 2019, the band released a “sizzle reel” in which they confirmed a new single "Bones" featuring OneRepublic would be coming in 2019.[30] It was released on 25 January 2019. In mid-January 2020, Galantis and Charli XCX released a song to promote Universal Studios Japan's Super Nintendo World, this song was named We Are Born to Play. Galantis released their third studio album Church, on 7 February 2020.[31] Church consisted of fourteen songs and included collaborations with artists such as Yellow Claw, Passion Pit, Hook N Sling, Dotan, Dolly Parton, Mr. Probz and John Newman.

2020–present: New singles

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After the release of their third studio album, the duo worked on a single with Wrabel, titled "The Lake". They also released a song titled "I Fly" with Faouzia for the movie Scoob!. Galantis then collaborated with Pink Sweat$ and Ship Wrek on "Only a Fool", which was released on 29 May 2020, and with Jackson Wang of Got7 on the single "Pretty Please".[citation needed]

On 21 May 2021, Galantis released the single "Heartbreak Anthem" with French DJ David Guetta and British girl group Little Mix.[32]

Discography

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Touring

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Coachella

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Galantis debuted their live show at Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival on 12 April 2014.[33] Their performance came less than two weeks after their first release. In a Billboard Poll, which asked fans to vote on Coachella 2014's Best Dance Music Moment, Galantis beat Calvin Harris, Flume, Chromeo, Disclosure and Girl Talk with 52% of the vote.[34] Their performance garnered praise from Dancing Astroaut, LA Times and Billboard, among others.[35][36][37] Dubbed 'Seafoxchella', their live set debuted original songs and remixes from such genres as pop, electro, and house. The duo played an hour-long set at the Gobi Tent, with live controllers, visuals, and seafox stage set. Highlights included their single "Smile", as well as remixes to their other tune, "You".[38][39] Following the second weekend of the festival, the duo kicked off their first live tour with a string of dates in North America.[40]

Galantis have performed at Coachella 2014, and recently in 2017.[41] The group's performances are characterized by them waving seafox flags, jumping from the stage, and doing other stunts that increase the energy of their shows.

The duo have begun another world tour in support of their second album, The Aviary.[42] The tour begins in United States at Ultra Music Festival as they travel across the country before returning to Europe.[43]

Concert tour

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  • Louder Harder Better Tour (2016)
  • The Aviary Tour (2017—2018)
  • Church of Galantis Tour (2020)

Awards and nominations

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Year Awards Category Recipient Outcome Ref.
2016 Grammy Awards Best Dance Recording "Runaway (U & I)" Nominated [44]
International Dance Music Awards Best Electro/Progressive House Track "Peanut Butter Jelly" [45]
Best Music Video
Best Progressive House/Electro DJ Galantis
Best Artist (Group)
Best Full Length Studio Recording Pharmacy
Electronic Music Awards & Foundation Show Album of the Year Nominated [46]
Single of the Year "Runaway (U & I)"
MTV Europe Music Awards Best Swedish Act Galantis Nominated [47]
NRJ Music Awards Best New DJ Nominated [48]
2017 MTV Europe Music Awards Best Swedish Act Nominated [49]
2022 Brit Awards Best International Song "Heartbreak Anthem" (with David Guetta and Little Mix) Nominated [50]
iHeartRadio Music Awards Dance Song of The Year Nominated [51]
Grammis Electro/Dance of the Year "Heartbreak Anthem"/"Dandelion"/"Alien" Nominated [52]

References

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[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Galantis is a Swedish electronic dance music project led by Christian Karlsson (aka Bloodshy), blending vibrant pop melodies with high-energy EDM production to create anthemic, feel-good tracks. Originally formed in 2012 as a duo with fellow Swedish Linus Eklöw (aka Style of Eye) in , the act has evolved into Karlsson's primary creative outlet, amassing over 7.3 billion worldwide streams and 1.9 billion video views. The project gained prominence with its 2014 debut EP Galantis, featuring the single "Smile," followed by the breakthrough track "Runaway (U & I)," which achieved certification in the and earned a Grammy for Best Recording. Their self-titled debut album (2015) topped the Dance/Electronic Albums chart, propelled by hits like the gold-certified "Peanut Butter Jelly." Subsequent releases include (2017), which debuted in the top 10 in 23 countries and included the single "No Money," Church (2020), featuring the chart-topping collaboration "" with and that reached number one on the Dance/Electronic Songs and charts, and Rx (2024), their fourth studio album. Renowned for innovative live shows incorporating multi-tiered stages and immersive visuals, Galantis made their festival debut at Coachella in 2014 and have since headlined major events worldwide. The project has collaborated with artists such as David Guetta on "Heartbreak Anthem" (2021), which topped UK airplay charts, and continued releasing singles like "Fool 4 U" with JVKE and Enisa in 2023, maintaining their status as a staple in the dance music scene.

Members

Christian Karlsson

Christian Karlsson, born Lars Christian Karlsson on July 14, 1975, in Loftahammar, , grew up immersed in the country's and subcultures during his teenage years. He formed his first punk band at age 14 and taught himself music production using basic equipment like an and a , drawing inspiration from punk's accessible, DIY ethos that emphasized simple chord structures over technical complexity. Karlsson relocated to Stockholm in his early career, where he established himself as a key figure in Swedish pop production. In the late 1990s, he co-founded the production duo Bloodshy & Avant with Pontus Winnberg (known as Avant), adopting the stage name Bloodshy; the pair quickly rose to prominence by crafting hits for international artists, including Britney Spears' Grammy-winning single "Toxic" from her 2003 album In the Zone—a track originally intended for Janet Jackson and offered to Kylie Minogue, who declined it—as well as contributions to Madonna's Confessions on a Dance Floor (2005) and Minogue's Body Language (2003). Their work blended electronic elements with pop sensibilities, earning them multiple Grammy nominations for productions like Spears' Blackout (2007). In 2007, Karlsson, Winnberg, and vocalist Andrew Wyatt formed the indie pop band Miike Snow, releasing their self-titled debut album in 2009 through Downtown Records, which spawned the hit single "Animal" and peaked at number 29 on the UK Albums Chart, showcasing Karlsson's shift toward more experimental, hook-driven electro-pop. Karlsson co-founded the electronic music project Galantis in 2012 alongside Linus Eklöw () as a creative outlet for uplifting . After Eklöw stepped away from creative duties in 2017 and last performed live in early 2020, Galantis became Karlsson's solo project by 2021, with him taking on the roles of primary producer, songwriter, and live performer, incorporating percussion elements like into high-energy shows. Since 2021, he has helmed releases such as the 2023 single "Bang Bang! (My Neurodivergent Anthem)," emphasizing themes of personal freedom and , including his experiences with ADHD, the 2024 album Rx, and singles including "Circles" (feat. Peach Martine & secs on the beach) in August 2025 and "Stay A Little Longer" (with & ) in November 2025. Post-2020, Karlsson has sustained his songwriting collaborations outside Galantis, contributing to tracks like David Guetta's "" (2021) featuring him under the Bloodshy moniker and advancing new material for , such as the 2024 single "I Was a Sailor," reflecting his ongoing influence across pop and electronic genres.

Linus Eklöw

Johan Linus Eklöw, better known by his stage name , was born on August 29, 1979, in Vallentuna, a suburb of , . Growing up in the city, he began experimenting with various music genres during his teenage years, including and choral music, before shifting his focus to electronic production while in high school. Largely self-taught, Eklöw started creating tracks using early digital tools and released his debut single in 2003, marking the beginning of his independent career in electronic music. Prior to Galantis, Eklöw established himself as a prominent producer and DJ under the Style of Eye moniker, with releases on influential labels such as Big Beat Records and . His discography includes full-length albums like Duck, Cover & Hold (2008) on Pickadoll Records and Footprints (2014) on , blending , , and experimental elements. Eklöw earned acclaim for his remix work, notably reworking Moby's "I Love to Move in Here" into a piano-driven version for the 2008 compilation Last Night Remixed and contributing to Swedish House Mafia's "Save the World" (with Carli), which appeared on their 2011 EP. In 2012, Eklöw teamed up with fellow Swedish Christian Karlsson to form the electronic duo Galantis, where he served as co-producer and co-writer through their initial success, including the 2014 debut EP and album Pharmacy. He played a pivotal role in crafting the group's breakthrough track "Runaway (U & I)," co-writing the song alongside Karlsson and others, which became a global hit peaking at number three on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart. Eklöw contributed to Galantis' live performances during this period, helping define their high-energy, festival-ready sound. Eklöw stepped away from active creative duties in Galantis following the release of the duo's second album, The Aviary, in September 2017. He made occasional live appearances with the project until early but has since shifted his focus to independent production endeavors, while maintaining co-ownership without ongoing involvement in the group's releases or tours. As of 2025, Eklöw has no recent public releases and is believed to have retired from active music production.

Artistry

Musical style

Galantis' music is primarily rooted in and , incorporating elements of , , , and . Their sound is defined by uplifting melodies, anthemic drops, and feel-good vocals that emphasize major-key progressions to create an euphoric, festival-oriented energy. In production, the duo heavily relies on synthesizers for layered, stirring keyboard arrangements and monumental patterns that build to climaxes. Chopped and pitched-up vocal samples, often employing a chipmunk-like squeal effect, add an organic yet electronic texture, transforming acapellas into catchy hooks suitable for broad appeal. These techniques contribute to their "happy EDM" philosophy, which prioritizes positive, escapist themes in both and to evoke joy and emotional release. Over time, Galantis' style has evolved from high-energy EDM focused on euphoric big-room drops in their early output to a more introspective pop-dance hybrid in the solo era led by Christian Karlsson. Later works integrate deeper emotional layers through soul-baring lyrics and collaborations, while retaining core elements like anthemic builds and vocal manipulations for a reflective yet vibrant tone. This shift reflects a genre-bending approach that balances innovation with accessible songwriting.

Influences and collaborators

Galantis' sound draws from the diverse backgrounds of its founders, Christian Karlsson and Linus Eklöw. Karlsson's early influences included , which inspired him to form a melodic punk band at age 14, and hip-hop, particularly through skateboarding culture acts like and that led him to experiment with beat-making on an MPC 60. His extensive pop production roots, developed under the Bloodshy & Avant moniker alongside Pontus Winnberg, shaped his approach to crafting infectious melodies, as seen in high-profile tracks like ' "Toxic," initially written for . Eklöw, performing as , brought an underground edge with his focus on , , and trip-hop, creating high-energy club music that melded far-reaching electronic influences since 2003. Together, they shared an admiration for the Swedish house scene, including pioneers like and the collective , which informed their experimental dance music ethos. Key collaborators have been instrumental in realizing Galantis' vision, blending electronic production with varied vocal talents and production styles. Vocalists such as ROZES contributed ethereal layers to tracks like "Girls on Boys," showcasing her multi-platinum background from ' "Roses," while MAX delivered rhythmic pop energy on a collaborative EP that highlighted his rising presence in U.S. charts. Producers like Australian DJ Hook N Sling joined for upbeat anthems such as "Love on Me," infusing Galantis' sound with multiplatinum ARIA-nominated flair. High-profile partnerships further diversified their output, including country icon on "Faith" featuring , electronic heavyweight and pop group on "Heartbreak Anthem," rock band on "Lighter," and emerging artists PEACH MARTINE and secs on the beach on "Circles." These alliances significantly broadened Galantis' audience, merging EDM's high-energy drops with pop's melodic hooks and country's narrative storytelling, as exemplified by the feature that crossed genre boundaries and garnered widespread acclaim. The gold-certified "" alone spent 10 weeks on the Dance/Electronic Songs chart, underscoring the global appeal of such blends. Following Eklöw's departure around 2020, Karlsson's solo stewardship of the project has leaned into even more eclectic partnerships, including with and on "" (2025), emphasizing genre experimentation to sustain Galantis' innovative trajectory in electronic music.

History

2007–2012: Early careers

Christian Karlsson, one-half of the production duo alongside Pontus Winnberg, achieved significant success in the mid-2000s through high-profile pop collaborations. Their work on ' 2003 single "Toxic," which became a global hit upon its 2004 release and earned a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording, marked a breakthrough, blending electro-pop with innovative production techniques. This was followed by contributions to Spears' 2007 album Blackout, including tracks like "" and "Break the Ice," which solidified their reputation for crafting edgy, chart-topping electronic pop during a period of intense creative output from 2004 to 2008. In 2007, Karlsson and Winnberg formed the indie-electro band with American vocalist , shifting toward a more experimental sound rooted in Stockholm's burgeoning electronic scene. The group debuted their self-titled album in September 2009 on Downtown Records, featuring the lead single "Animal," which garnered critical acclaim and charted internationally, establishing Miike Snow as a key player in with electronic influences. Karlsson's involvement in Miike Snow during this era highlighted his transition from pop production to band-oriented projects, performing at small venues and festivals while building connections within Sweden's music community. Meanwhile, Linus Eklöw, performing as , emerged in Stockholm's electronic underground with a series of EPs and singles that fused , , and trip-hop elements. His 2008 Homeless EP on , co-produced with Slagsmålsklubben, showcased raw, high-energy club tracks like the title song, earning attention in international circles. From 2008 to 2011, Eklöw released additional singles such as "The Prophet" and "The Big Kazoo," alongside remixes for major labels, including his take on Sky Ferreira's "One" in 2010 and a mix for Ministry of Sound's club compilation series in 2010, which helped expand his profile in the global landscape. Active in Stockholm's vibrant electronic scene since the early 2000s, Eklöw's productions reflected the city's innovative club culture. Karlsson and Eklöw, both embedded in Stockholm's interconnected electronic music community, first connected through mutual industry ties in the Swedish scene. Their professional relationship deepened around when Eklöw remixed Miike Snow's "Animal," a track that not only highlighted his remix skills but also sparked ongoing discussions about potential collaborations. This informal exchange of ideas, including early experiments with upbeat, festival-ready electronic sounds, laid the groundwork for their joint vision, with initial meetings intensifying through shared connections by 2012.

2013–2014: Formation, debut EP, and breakthrough

Galantis was formed in 2012 by Swedish producers Christian Karlsson, known for his work with , and Linus Eklöw, who performed as , initially as a collaborative amid their established solo careers. The duo, who had met in in 2007, aimed to blend their distinct electronic influences into anthemic, uplifting tracks while navigating the demands of their individual commitments, including Karlsson's ongoing obligations and Eklöw's solo productions. In mid-2013, Galantis signed with Records, a imprint of , providing a platform for their burgeoning project. Their debut single, "Smile," arrived in November 2013, introducing their signature sound of euphoric melodies and filtered vocals that would define their early output. This was followed by their self-titled debut EP on April 1, 2014, featuring "Smile" alongside new tracks like "You," which served as the EP's second single and further showcased their ability to craft infectious, festival-ready hooks. The EP's release marked the start of Galantis's breakthrough, amplified by their first live performances, including a high-profile debut at the 2014 Music & Arts Festival in April, where they opted for a full-band setup with elaborate visuals and lighting rather than a traditional DJ format to create an immersive experience. This approach addressed early challenges in distinguishing their live shows from standard electronic sets, while balancing time between Galantis and their solo work required careful scheduling around tours and studio sessions. "Runaway (U & I)," released in October 2014, became their defining hit, surging to the top 10 on Billboard's Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart by mid-2015 after initial airplay and streaming momentum built through festival appearances and online buzz. The track's music video and performances at events like Ultra Music Festival generated viral traction on YouTube, with views exceeding 5 million shortly after Coachella, drawing widespread media attention and establishing Galantis as a rising force in electronic dance music.

2015–2017: Pharmacy, The Aviary, and Linus's departure

Galantis released their debut studio album, , on June 8, 2015, through /. The 13-track project built on the momentum from their earlier singles, featuring high-energy electronic pop anthems designed for festival crowds. Key singles included "Gold Dust," released on February 23, 2015, which showcased the duo's signature uplifting drops and became a staple in their live sets, and "Peanut Butter Jelly," issued on April 20, 2015, known for its playful, infectious hook and vibrant . The album debuted at No. 1 on the Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart, marking a commercial breakthrough and solidifying their presence in the EDM scene. In 2017, Galantis followed up with their second studio album, The Aviary, released on September 15 via the same label. The record expanded their sound with more mature production elements, incorporating influences and collaborative vocals to create immersive, escapist tracks. Leading singles were "Rich Boy," dropped on February 17, 2017, an anti-bullying anthem featuring child vocals and a message of inner worth, and "Hunter," released on May 5, 2017, which emphasized pursuit and resilience through its driving beats. The Aviary explored themes of personal liberation and adventure, reflecting the duo's evolving creative vision amid their rising fame. This period represented the height of Galantis' duo era, highlighted by a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Recording for "Runaway (U & I)" at the in 2016. The track's enduring popularity, combined with hits from , propelled them to major festival appearances, including multiple performances at in 2015, 2016, and 2017, where they delivered high-octane sets on the mainstage. They also embarked on extensive headlining tours across and , drawing large crowds and cementing their reputation as festival favorites with elaborate visuals and crowd interaction. Following the release of The Aviary, Linus Eklöw began stepping back from primary creative duties in the project, though he remained involved in select live until 2020. This shift marked the transition toward Christian Karlsson leading Galantis as a solo endeavor, allowing for continued evolution while preserving the act's core sound.

2018–2020: Church and duo's final years

In 2018, Galantis released the single "Satisfied" featuring MAX, marking an early highlight of the period with its energetic house production and themes of desire and release. The track, issued on July 13 via Big Beat Records, showcased the duo's continued evolution toward infectious, festival-ready dance-pop. Following the 2017 album The Aviary, Galantis entered a phase of reduced output amid shifting duo dynamics, with Linus Eklöw taking a less prominent role in production and performances. The pair's final collaborative album, Church, arrived on February 7, 2020, through Big Beat and Atlantic Records, comprising 14 tracks that emphasized uplifting anthems about unity, faith, and collective hope rather than traditional religious motifs. Leading singles included "Bones" (September 2019, featuring OneRepublic), "I Found U" (November 2019), "We Can Get High" (January 2020, with Yellow Claw), "Holy Water" (January 2020), and "Faith" (February 2020, with Dolly Parton and Mr. Probz), each blending electronic drops with vocal-driven hooks to explore emotional resilience. The album reflected a more reflective tone post-Aviary, prioritizing communal belief and perseverance amid personal and global challenges. The duo's last joint single during this era was part of the Church rollout, though Eklöw's involvement waned, culminating in their final live performance together on February 29, 2020, at Exchange LA in . The onset of the disrupted ongoing tours, including a postponed Red Rocks Amphitheatre show scheduled for April 24, 2020, with 3LAU, forcing cancellations across . In response, Galantis pivoted to virtual experiences, announcing their first VR concert "Church of Galantis" via Wave's platform to promote the album remotely, alongside releasing the somber single "The Lake" with on April 24, 2020, which addressed isolation and solace during . They also contributed remixes and online content to maintain fan engagement without live events. By late 2020, amid the pandemic's uncertainties, Christian Karlsson announced he would continue the project as a solo endeavor, effectively ending the duo era with Eklöw's departure; Eklöw had decided to move on to assess his personal priorities and musical direction, though further details were not publicly elaborated, sparking some fan speculation. This transition allowed Karlsson to sustain the brand's momentum through subsequent virtual and recorded output.

2021–2023: Solo era and new singles

Following the duo's final releases in 2020, Galantis transitioned into a solo project led by Christian Karlsson in 2021, marking a new chapter focused on personal expression and creative independence. This shift allowed Karlsson to helm production and performances alone, drawing from his extensive background in pop and electronic music while navigating the evolving post-pandemic landscape. The era emphasized standalone singles that explored themes of emotional recovery and inner strength, reflecting Karlsson's own experiences with ADHD and artistic reinvention. The first release under this solo banner was "Dandelion" with JVKE, issued on January 8, 2021, via Records, highlighting resilience by portraying fleeting connections as opportunities for growth amid uncertainty. Subsequent singles included "," a collaboration with and , released on May 20, 2021, an uplifting EDM-pop anthem about overcoming romantic loss that debuted at No. 3 on the UK Singles Chart and reached the top 10 on Billboard's Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, showcasing Karlsson's ability to blend high-energy drops with vocal-driven narratives. In 2022, "Run" featuring , released on February 25, continued this motif, urging listeners to escape emotional turmoil through movement and self-empowerment, while peaking at No. 21 on the UK chart. By 2023, Karlsson's output leaned deeper into triumphant recovery, as seen in "Fool 4 U" with and Enisa on March 31, which delved into in relationships, followed by "BANG BANG!" with on June 22, a high-octane track addressing battles and bouncing back stronger—directly inspired by Karlsson's ADHD journey. Another notable collaboration that year was "Dreamteam" with , released October 27, which celebrated teamwork and perseverance in creative pursuits. These releases underscored a thematic arc of turning to , with Karlsson prioritizing piano-driven songwriting to infuse authenticity into the electronic sound. Amid pandemic restrictions, Galantis pivoted to events in , such as virtual sets on platforms like Twitch, before resuming in-person shows at smaller venues like in New York. By 2022–2023, performances expanded to festivals including EDC Mexico, allowing Karlsson to test new material in front of audiences. However, adapting live shows without Eklöw presented challenges, requiring Karlsson to reimagine the high-energy duo dynamic through solo DJ sets and guest vocalists, all while forging a distinct identity beyond the original partnership. This period solidified Galantis as Karlsson's personal outlet, blending with dancefloor euphoria.

2024–present: Rx and recent activity

In 2024, Christian Karlsson, the sole remaining member of Galantis following Linus Eklöw's departure, released the project's fourth studio album, Rx, on May 17 via Records. This 14-track collection marked Karlsson's most introspective work to date, exploring themes of neurodivergence, self-discovery, acceptance, and triumph through the lens of his ADHD diagnosis, with music positioned as a therapeutic "remedy" akin to . Karlsson described the album as a continuation of the metaphorical "" concept from Galantis' 2015 debut, stating, “Pharmacy was when I knew I was neurodivergent and I knew the studio was like a pharmacy for me. I was the patient. Rx is when I found .” Notable collaborations included "Lighter" with and , alongside features from artists such as , , and , blending high-energy electronic production with emotional depth. Building on the solo era's momentum, Galantis issued several singles in 2025, including "Circles" on August 22, a vibrant track featuring MARTINE and secs on the beach, which emerged as a feel-good summer anthem emphasizing cyclical emotions and festival-ready energy. Later that year, on , "" arrived as a collaboration with and , delivering an uplifting house-infused plea for connection amid its pulsating beats. As of November 2025, Galantis remains active, resuming a robust touring schedule that includes appearances at EDSea in from November 1–6 and headlining shows in and in December. In an August 2024 Billboard Q&A, Karlsson reflected on the project's longevity, crediting resilience, evolving collaborations, and a commitment to fresh creativity for sustaining Galantis' relevance over a decade in the electronic music landscape. Looking ahead, Karlsson has emphasized ongoing evolution as a solo act, focusing on personal growth and innovative sound design to propel Galantis forward.

Discography

Studio albums

Galantis has released four studio albums since their formation in 2012, each showcasing their evolution in electronic dance music with a focus on uplifting, festival-ready production. Their debut album, Pharmacy, was released on June 8, 2015, via Big Beat Records and contains 13 tracks. It debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart, marking a significant breakthrough for the duo. The second album, The Aviary, followed on September 15, 2017, also through Big Beat Records, featuring 12 tracks with collaborations including ROZES and Poo Bear. It peaked at No. 4 on the Billboard Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart and entered the Australian Albums Chart. Church, the third studio album, arrived on February 7, 2020, comprising 14 tracks and including high-profile features like Dolly Parton and Mr. Probz on the single "Faith." Its release coincided with the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted touring plans, though the album achieved moderate streaming success, with "Faith" earning gold certification in the US. It reached No. 4 on the Billboard Top Dance/Electronic Albums chart. In 2024, Galantis—now led solely by Christian Karlsson following Linus Eklöw's departure—released Rx on May 17 via Big Beat Records, a 14-track effort billed as the project's first solo-era . Highlights include the collaborative single "Lighter" with and , which drove strong digital performance through high streaming numbers.

Extended plays

Galantis released their debut , titled Galantis EP, on April 1, 2014, through Big Beat Records as a digital-only release. The EP consisted of five tracks—"", "You", "", "Help", and "Friend (Hard Times)"—which showcased the duo's emerging melodic house sound characterized by uplifting synths and euphoric drops. This release played a key role in generating early buzz for the project, peaking at number 4 on the electronic chart and helping establish their breakthrough presence in the EDM scene. None of Galantis' EPs achieved major chart entries comparable to their full-length s. In 2023, Galantis released Very Important Remixes, a compilation-style EP containing five remixed versions of tracks from prior singles, emphasizing VIP (very important producer) mixes to refresh their catalog for club and streaming audiences. Released under Big Beat Records, it included reworkings such as "Dreamteam (Galantis & Misha K VIP Mix)" and "Fool 4 U (feat. & Enisa) - Galantis & secs On The Beach VIP Mix", focusing on enhanced production for live sets and radio play.

Singles

Galantis has released over 30 singles as of 2025, many of which have charted prominently on the Hot Dance/Electronic Songs chart, with more than 20 entries reaching the top 20. Their singles often blend uplifting electronic pop with collaborations, contributing to their global appeal in the genre. Key releases span their career, highlighting breakthrough hits, mid-period collaborations, and recent tracks that continue to build on their legacy. The following table lists selected notable singles, focusing on their release year, featured artists (if any), peak positions on major charts, and certifications where applicable.
TitleYearFeatured Artist(s)Peak on Billboard Hot Dance/Electronic SongsCertifications
Runaway (U & I)2014None#93× Platinum (US)
Peanut Butter Jelly2015None#18Platinum (UK)
Hunter2016None#21None
No Money2016None#7Platinum (Sweden)
Faith2019Dolly Parton, Mr. Probz#1Gold (US)
Heartbreak Anthem2021David Guetta, Little Mix#72× Platinum (UK)
Circles2025PEACH MARTINE, secs on the beach#8 (emerging)None
Stay A Little Longer2025Joel Corry, Izzy Bizu#15 (emerging)None
These singles represent pivotal moments in Galantis' discography, with early tracks like "Runaway (U & I)" establishing their signature sound and achieving widespread radio play and streaming success. Mid-period releases such as "No Money" and "Faith" expanded their reach through international certifications and chart dominance, while recent efforts like "Heartbreak Anthem" demonstrate ongoing collaborations with major artists.

Live performances

Headlining tours

Galantis embarked on their inaugural major headlining outing with the Louder Harder Better Tour in early 2016, supporting their debut album Pharmacy. Spanning over 50 dates primarily across North America and Europe, the tour kicked off in January with stops in cities like Seattle, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, before extending to European venues such as Dublin's The Academy and various UK spots. Performances were characterized by high-energy sets featuring live drumming on a multi-tiered stage setup with synthesizers and drum pads, complemented by vibrant visuals that amplified the album's uplifting electronic sound. The Aviary Tour followed in late 2017 and continued into 2018, promoting their sophomore album The Aviary and marking an expansion to including alongside core North American and European legs. Announced in July 2017, the U.S. portion alone included high-profile venues like Los Angeles' Greek Theatre and Chicago's Aragon Ballroom, with international dates reaching cities such as . Building on prior productions, the shows incorporated enhanced live band elements, notably the duo's signature mega-drum set for dynamic percussion, alongside immersive visuals like digital forest projections during tracks such as "Hunter," creating a more theatrical experience. The COVID-19 pandemic forced a hiatus on live touring in 2020, leading Galantis to pivot to virtual experiences, including the "Church of Galantis" VR concert streamed via the Wave platform in March 2020 to celebrate their third album Church. This immersive event featured avatar-based performances and interactive elements, allowing global fans to engage remotely during lockdowns. Resuming in earnest post-2021 as a solo project led by Christian Karlsson following Linus Eklöw's departure, Galantis' headlining runs support the 2024 album Rx and began in fall 2024 with dates like a June 2024 show in San Diego and August shows in Las Vegas. The 2024–2025 itinerary has emphasized intimate fan interactions through themed productions, such as the Midsommar - All Hallows event at Red Rocks Amphitheatre on November 1, 2025, featuring special guests Dillon Francis and Forester. Additional 2025 highlights included the EDSea cruise from November 1–6, and upcoming shows in Japan on December 1 in Osaka and December 3 in Tokyo, a December 5 stop in Singapore, and a New Year's Eve performance on December 31 in Minneapolis. These solo-era shows maintain the high-energy drumming tradition while prioritizing closer audience engagement via custom visuals and stage design.

Festival appearances

Galantis made their live debut at the 2014 Coachella Valley Music and Arts Festival, marking their first major performance and instantly captivating audiences with high-energy sets that blended progressive house and pop elements. This breakthrough continued with appearances at Ultra Music Festival in 2015, where they delivered a dynamic mainstage set, and Tomorrowland Brasil later that year, showcasing tracks like "Runaway (U & I)" to enthusiastic crowds. These early festival slots established Galantis as rising stars in the electronic dance music scene, drawing widespread attention through their infectious visuals and seafox-themed production. During their peak years, Galantis solidified their status with consistent performances at premier events, including multiple slots at Electric Daisy Carnival (EDC) Las Vegas from 2016 to 2018, where they commanded the kineticFIELD stage with elaborate light shows and fan-favorite anthems. They returned to Coachella in 2017 on the Sahara Tent, delivering a milestone set that highlighted their evolution since their debut. Lollapalooza appearances in 2017 (Berlin) and 2022 (Stockholm) further amplified their global reach, with sets emphasizing collaborative energy and crowd interaction. These performances at EDC and Lollapalooza exemplified Galantis's ability to thrive in large-scale, shared-lineup environments, contrasting their more controlled headlining tours. In recent years, following Linus Eklöw's departure in 2020, Christian Karlsson has adapted Galantis to a solo project, incorporating updated visuals and production to maintain the group's signature seafox aesthetic while evolving the sound. This shift was evident in their 2025 festival appearances, including Nocturnal Wonderland in San Bernardino, where they energized the Mystic Wild stage, and North Coast Music Festival in , blending new singles with classics. Galantis also joined the EDSea cruise festival lineup that November, performing amid a diverse electronic roster on the voyage from to . Festival appearances have been pivotal in driving Galantis's fanbase growth, transforming them from newcomers without a platform in 2014 to a global act with over 6.6 billion cumulative streams, as early slots at Coachella and Ultra built a dedicated "Seafox Nation" community through shared, immersive experiences.

Awards and nominations

Grammy Awards

Galantis received a single Grammy Award nomination in 2016 for their breakthrough single "Runaway (U & I)" in the category of Best Dance Recording at the 58th Annual Grammy Awards. The track, released in 2014 as the lead single from their debut album Pharmacy (2015), competed against notable entries including the eventual winner, "Where Are Ü Now" by Skrillex and Diplo featuring Justin Bieber. Despite not securing a win, the nomination marked Galantis' sole entry in the Grammy Awards to date and highlighted their early contributions to revitalizing main-stage electronic dance music through festival anthems like "Runaway (U & I)." As their first major recognition from the Recording Academy, it significantly elevated the duo's visibility in the U.S. market, underscoring the track's global impact with over a billion streams and chart success across multiple countries.

Other awards and nominations

Galantis has garnered recognition beyond the from international and Swedish music accolades, highlighting their impact in . In , the duo has been honored by key industry bodies, including wins at the P3 Guld and Awards. Internationally, they have received nominations from prestigious events like the and , often for collaborative hits. The following table summarizes select other awards and nominations received by Galantis:
YearAwardCategoryResultNotes
2015International Dance Music AwardsBest Breakthrough ArtistWonRecognized for their debut album Pharmacy and breakthrough single "Runaway (U & I)."
2016International Dance Music AwardsBest Progressive House/Electro DJNominated
2016International Dance Music AwardsBest Artist (Group)Nominated
2017P3 GuldÅrets dans (Dance of the Year)WonOne of three nominations; based on fan voting for most danced-to music in 2016.
2017P3 GuldAdditional categories (e.g., Årets artist, Årets pop)NominatedThree total nominations, leading alongside artist Zara Larsson.
2017SKAP AwardsProducer of the YearWonAwarded by the Swedish Society of Popular Music Publishers for production contributions.
2017GrammisgalanSong of the YearNominatedFor "No Money," their platinum-certified single from The Aviary.
2018WDM Radio AwardsBest Electro House DJNominatedPart of Mexico's electronic music awards hosted by LOS40.
2018WDM Radio AwardsBest Party DJNominatedCompeted against acts like Martin Garrix and The Chainsmokers.
2018WDM Radio AwardsBest Trending TrackNominatedFor "Rich Boy."
2020P3 GuldÅrets grupp (Group of the Year)NominatedFor overall production; did not win.
2022BRIT AwardsInternational Song of the YearNominatedFor "Heartbreak Anthem" with David Guetta and Little Mix.
2022iHeartRadio Music AwardsDance Song of the YearNominatedFor "Heartbreak Anthem" with David Guetta and Little Mix.

References

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