Vesala

Vesala is a Finnish singer/songwriter best known as a member of pop/rock band PMMP, and as a solo artist. Paula Julia Vesala was born in Kärsämäki, Finland, and went on to study music education and classical singing at the Sibelius Academy in Helsinki. Following her studies, she wrote songs for a number of notable Finnish artists including Johanna Kurkela, Jenni Vartiainen, and Martti Saarinen. Her talent as a lyricist was rewarded in 2016 when she was awarded the Juha Vainio Award. PMMP were formed in 2003 and achieved immediate success with their hit single "Rusketusraidat 'Tan Lines'." The band capitalized on their initial success with their sophomore record, Kovemmat Kädet, which achieved double-platinum status in 2010. PMMP were also known for their activism, supporting Amnesty International's work and Pussy Riot's campaign for human rights in Russia. They released a further five albums before playing their final gig at Helsinki Ice Hall on October 27, 2013 and then disbanding. After the group's split, Paula Vesala became known exclusively by her surname, and embarked on a solo career. Her first single, "Tequila," appeared in 2015, and her debut self-titled record followed in 2016. Within a few months the synth pop album went platinum. ~ Bekki Bemrose, Rovi