CHALLENGE // CASHMERE CAT // Total production 2016

This year's challenger may thrive best in the shadows, hidden behind his bangs, but his distinct sound has made him a favorite among the world's biggest artists. Composer and producer Magnus August Høiberg from Halden is an innovator in his field. From being an award-winning DJ back home in Norway, he has become an international standard-bearer for the intersection between club and urban music.

According to himself, Høiberg stumbled upon his own sound after getting tired of copying his heroes. What was initially an attempt to parody contemporary pop music turned out to be his strength and hallmark. A cheerful mix of sensual R'n'B and danceable EDM, combined with an ear for clever details, would become his unique signature. You can recognize a Cashmere Cat production within the first four bars of the song, and they can move from cheerful to painful, then from quiet to grandiose in an instant. In this way, he challenges the dynamic spectrum of today's pop landscape.

2016 has been the year of the cat. The portfolio of artists who have benefited from Magnus Høiberg's talent for composition and production includes names such as Ariana Grande, Selena Gomez, Britney Spears and Ty Dolla Sign. One of 2016's most impactful album releases, "Starboy" by The Weeknd, has Høiberg's signature on four songs. He also released his critically acclaimed debut album, and also worked with Kanye West, which he himself has said was the fulfillment of his biggest dream.

Cashmere Cat lets the music speak for itself. He is proof that you don't have to be in the spotlight to become a star. Congratulations on a very well-deserved EDVARD award.

Photo: Willy Martinsen/TONO