About Me – A Journey Through Love, Music, and Self-Discovery
Danish jazz singer and songwriter Helle danum’s debut album “Born To Love” is a journey through the many shades of love. It’s a tribute to the strength and connection that love can create. Writing my own songs has been a process of growth, where I found the courage to share my stories with the world. Now, I stand here with music as my voice, reflecting both the beauty and the pain of life, and expressing my gratitude for the opportunity to spread joy and hope.
Billie Holiday as a Mirror
Growing up in a tumultuous home, where my father battled alcoholism, I learned early to sense the pain of others. Watching Lady Sings the Blues as a child deeply impacted me—not because of Billie Holiday’s beauty, but because of the darkness in her upbringing. Her raw expression made me feel less alone, and it sparked my love for jazz.
Music as a Sanctuary
Amid the chaos, music became my sanctuary—a place to express feelings that had no outlet elsewhere. Jazz opened up a world of freedom and depth that I instantly fell in love with. It’s been a constant source of joy and strength, and that love continues to drive me today.
A Loving Environment Behind the Album
Born To Love was created in collaboration with four of Denmark and Sweden’s most talented jazz musicians: Magnus Hjorth, Jesper Løvdal, Thomas Fonnesbæk, and Rasmus Kihlberg. We spent three magical days together, filled with creativity, joy, and laughter. It was crucial for me that they were not only exceptional musicians but also warm-hearted people who understood the depth I wanted to bring to the music. Together, we created something truly special.
Songs from the Heart
My songs are stories from my life, inspired by the power of love, faith in something greater, and the hope that always exists—even in dark times. Writing these songs taught me to find beauty in life’s little moments and reminded me to face life with gratitude and joy.
Feathers
Feathers was inspired by a moment when I felt utterly alone, but a stranger’s words touched me deeply, making me feel watched over. The song became a reminder that we’re never truly alone. A feather on your path may just be a silent greeting from angels, offering hope and protection even in life’s darkest moments.
Are You in Heaven
This song lays my heart bare. It’s about my complex relationship with my father and the powerful, yet painful, journey of forgiveness. Are You in Heaven speaks to the freedom that comes from forgiving—not only others but ourselves. Jesper Løvdal’s soulful saxophone helps convey the delicate balance between loss and the hope for reconciliation.
Love to the World
Love to the World celebrates the power of love to heal and unite. The song spreads warmth and optimism, reminding us that we can create something beautiful when we choose love. Katrine Madsen’s soulful backing vocals and creative input added a beautiful layer, and her kindness and deep musical intuition have been invaluable in bringing this piece to life.
The Little Things Matter
I’ve learned that the little acts of kindness we offer others, without expecting anything in return, are what truly connect us. These small gestures are a reminder that love is the strongest force we have—right after jazz, of course! And if all else fails, a little humor can save the day.
My Ikigai – Music as a Source of Life’s Joy
Ikigai is a Japanese concept meaning “the reason for being.” It’s about finding balance between what you love, what you’re good at, what the world needs, and what you can be rewarded for. When those things align, you find your ikigai—your deepest purpose. For me, music is my ikigai. It’s what gives my life meaning, freedom, and the opportunity to share hope and joy with others.
The Concert
On stage, I want the audience to feel like they’re part of the experience. It’s about creating a moment of connection—a conversation through music, where we reflect on life and share stories, perhaps with a laugh or two along the way. For me Life is meant to be lived with joy and lightness.
With Born To Love, I invite you into a world filled with love, hope, and honesty. I hope this music offers you a sense of connection and joy, and serves as a reminder that we can make a difference through the little things we do for one another.
“Just give a little love to the world.”
