European CMA multi-award winning artist OJ Hanssen will be performing at the annual Swedish Fest today in Thorsby.

Hanssen, who is a native of Norway, will be the first Scandinavian artist to perform at the festival. His unique style of country music, with just a hint of European flair, has made him a favorite in Europe and the U.S.

In addition to being named Artist of the Year, Hanssen was also awarded Song of the Year, Album of the Year, and Male Vocalist of the Year awards. He released his first U.S. album in 2001, when he was signed with RMG Records in Nashville. He has performed in Pigeon Forge, Tenn., and Branson, Mo., and travels throughout the US performing with his Fourteen Carat Band. He is currently finishing up his newest album, which is scheduled to be released in early 2009.

The Swedish Fest is an annual event that celebrates the Scandinavian heritage of the town of Thorsby. It begins at 9 a.m. with a parade downtown and continues all afternoon at Richard Wood Park in downtown Thorsby. The event is free to the public.