Roxette

Roxette were a Swedish pop duo from Halmstad, formed in 1986 by vocalist Marie Fredriksson and guitarist Per Gessle. Known for their energetic pop-rock sound, sophisticated production, and Fredriksson's distinctive vocal delivery, Roxette became one of the best-selling pop acts of the 1980s and 1990s, achieving massive international success and a devoted global fanbase. Looking for the Light (1986) and Don't Disturb My Groove (1987) established them in the Swedish pop scene. Joyride (1991), released internationally, brought them to global prominence, producing the hit singles The Look and It Must Have Been Love. The latter, featured in the film Pretty Woman, became one of the best-selling singles of the decade and established Roxette as genuinely international stars. Tourism (1992) and Crash! Boom! Bang! (1994) cemented their commercial success, both reaching the top 10 worldwide. Marie and Per have continued to record and perform since then, with varying degrees of commercial success but consistent fan devotion. Marie Fredriksson died in December 2019 after a long illness, and Per Gessle has continued occasionally performing. Roxette remain one of the best-selling acts of all time and are particularly beloved in Scandinavia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. Their pop-rock catalogue is a defining document of 1980s–1990s pop music.