Nils-Olav Johansen

Nils-Olav Johansen is a guitarist and vocalist who blends jazz, folk, and a bit of humor into everything he plays.

Born on April 12, 1966, in Bjugn, Norway, Nils-Olav’s musical journey began early, influenced by his sailor father’s love of Hawaiian music. That distinctive, flowing string sound has stayed with him throughout his career, shaping his unique approach to the guitar.

A graduate of the jazz program at Trøndelag Conservatory of Music, Nils-Olav quickly became a fixture in Norway’s jazz scene, playing with numerous ensembles. He has been a central member of Farmers Market since 1991 and has contributed to countless other projects, from the Blix Band to Transjoik. His collaborations have ranged from experimental jazz to traditional Finnish and Eastern European folk music, always with a distinctive voice and style that set him apart.

In addition to his work with Farmers Market, Nils-Olav has led his own trio, worked as a composer, and performed internationally. Whether he’s improvising intricate guitar lines or delivering his unmistakable vocals, Nils-Olav continues to surprise and inspire with his ability to fuse genres and push musical boundaries.