America basically dominates the international music scene. Very few musicians from other countries, especially those whose primary language is not English, get a worldwide audience. Amazingly, Iceland, though a small country, infiltrated the international music scene with a very unique sound. Iceland music always has that distinct relaxing and sometimes haunting voice that accompany experimental ambient beats.

Bjork. Bjork has to be the most famous Icelandic musician. Her recognition is well deserved as her voice alone is truly one of a kind. Her lyrics and unconventional character added to her already interesting profile. There are people who know her not because of her multiple Grammy nominations and other musical achievements, but because of a few public stunts like wearing a swan dress and tackling a reporter. No matter how attention grabbing her character is, her distinct music alone deserves much recognition.

Sigur Ros. These geniuses, like Bjork, have that ethereal voice to match post-rock melodies. They experiment with their sound and instruments, making them stand out internationally even though most of their songs are slow and in their native Icelandic language.

Mum. Another Icelandic prodigy, Mum also experiments with electronic music. Most of their songs are instrumentals. Songs with voices also have that ethereal quality. If you appreciate Sigur Ros, you will also love this band.

Emiliana Torrini. She may have the most conventional genre out of all the internationally acclaimed Icelandic musicians. Her music does not experiment with electronic music as with the other artists. But her voice is also distinctively Icelandic. She also has that ethereal voice which makes her music ambient nonetheless.

Icelandic musicians seem to have a knack in experimenting with beats and singing with ambient voices. I do not know what it is in Iceland that creates such great unique musicians. Kudos to Icelandic music and the influence it has on the international scene.