BY FILIPA MOREIRA l PUBLISHED: 10.01.2025
Mr. Ian Haugland, the indefatigable drummer of the legendary rock band EUROPE, has lived a life inseparable from the pulse and power of music. Known globally for the timeless anthem 'The Final Countdown', EUROPE has transcended generations, defied trends, and solidified its place as one of rock’s most enduring bands. In this exclusive interview with LJDJ, the musician offers a rare glimpse into the key moments that defined his journey, the challenges and triumphs of adapting to an ever-evolving music industry, and the profound power of staying true to one’s essence. Through his words, we are given an unprecedented opportunity to feel the heartbeat of a legacy that resonates through decades.
A Dream Worth Fighting For
From the outset, Mr. Ian’s career with EUROPE is the fulfillment of a dream - one that required passion, effort, and belief. Yet, even in such an marvellous journey, there are moments that stand out as indelible milestones. One such moment occurred in 1986, shortly after the release of their now-legendary anthem, 'The Final Countdown'.
“We were performing in Stockholm,” he recalls. “It was during our first Swedish tour, and something incredible happened. Before that night, we played to audiences of a few hundred people. But this time, the venue was sold out, and the energy in the room was unbelievable. Fans were screaming, the atmosphere was electric - it felt like Beatlemania. That was when I realised something big was happening. It wasn’t just another performance; it was a turning point for the band.”
That same concert became immortalised as the setting for the music video of The Final Countdown, a song that would define EUROPE’s career and forever alter their lives. For the drummer, it wasn’t just a performance but a moment of profound transformation - a realisation that the music they created had resonated with millions in a way they never anticipated.
Drum Heart, Open Soul
As the drummer of EUROPE, Mr. Ian is often seen as the band's heartbeat, anchoring their sound with precision and a fervent intensity. However, his approach to drumming transcends mere technicality. For him, it is an emotional force capable of storytelling.
“One significant moment in my career happened in Japan in the late 1980s,” he shares. “I met Ronnie James Dio, one of my idols, while we were both on tour. I spent an hour talking to him, and that conversation changed my perspective on music and fan connection forever." Adding that "He listened to me with genuine interest and respect, and that taught me the importance of truly engaging with your audience. That hour shaped how I approach my role as a musician.”
Mr. Ian views drumming as the engine that drives the band’s sound - steady and powerful without overshadowing the other instruments. “A standout moment for me is the drum fill that leads into the guitar solo in The Final Countdown. It’s one of the song’s defining features, and fans often ask me about it. Moments like that remind me how integral drumming is to the emotional narrative of a song.”
Revolution Calling: Rock’s Digital Rebirth
The world of music has changed dramatically since the early days of EUROPE. The advent of streaming platforms and social media has democratised music creation and distribution but has also introduced new challenges for artists seeking to stand out.
“Today, anyone can upload music or a performance on YouTube,” he explains. “While that’s empowering, it also means there’s an overwhelming amount of content out there. It’s harder to get noticed because the landscape is so crowded. When we started, we had record companies promoting us on TV, radio, and in record stores. Now, those channels have been replaced by algorithms and social media trends.”
Despite these changes, the drummer remains confident in the enduring power of rock music:
“Rock has always been about rebellion, about breaking out of the norm. That spirit hasn’t changed. Young people may express it differently today, but the essence of rock remains the same - it’s a way to connect with others and express your individuality.”
The Final Countdown: A Rocket Launch to Stardom
Few songs achieve the cultural resonance of The Final Countdown. For him and his bandmates, performing the track is as electrifying today as it was decades ago. “Every time we play it, it feels like the first time,” Ian says, his enthusiasm palpable.
“The energy between us and the audience is indescribable. It’s like a drug - it fills every cell of your body with joy and excitement. Even after all these years, the audience’s enthusiasm keeps it fresh and meaningful.”
Reflecting on what life might have been like without the song, he remains grounded. “If The Final Countdown hadn’t been written, we’d still be making music - it’s always been about the joy and about the love of creating and performing. But that song took us to heights we never could have imagined.”
He adds, “We just went on that, you know, sky ride out into the stars, playing shows in every country in the world. It was surreal. It happened so fast and it was so overwhelming that we couldn’t, you know, take it in and process it in the same time. It took a lot of years before we really understood what happened.”
Break Free: The Secret to Staying Timeless
EUROPE’s continued relevance is the evidence to their authenticity, especially to their passion. While many bands from their era struggled to adapt, EUROPE made a bold choice to follow their instincts and thus to stay true to themselves.
“During the grunge era of the early '90s, when bands like Nirvana changed the landscape, some '80s bands chased trends. But that didn’t feel authentic. We decided to step back and return when the time was right. That decision allowed us to stay true to ourselves, and I think that authenticity is the key to our longevity.”
Mr. Ian sums it up perfectly:
“We never did anything because somebody else told us to do it this way or record this kind of music now because that’s going to sell a lot of records or anything. We always followed our own spirit in the band.”
Always Follow the Beat
Mr. Ian's wisdom transcends music, offering invaluable life lessons. To aspiring musicians and dreamers, he advises heartfeltly:
“Follow your heart. Even if you fail, you’ll know you stayed true to yourself. Success isn’t about meeting others’ expectations - it’s about being authentic.”
He reflects on his own journey: “I struggled in school, trying to get an electronics degree, but it wasn’t for me. Despite my teachers’ advice, I chose music. It was a difficult decision, but it was the right one. Even if I had failed, I would’ve been proud knowing I followed my passion.”
The Everlasting Spirit of Europe
From their groundbreaking success in the '80s to their ongoing relevance today, EUROPE's story is one of resilience, creativity, and a deep love for music. For him, the journey has been as fulfilling as it has been inspiring.
“Music chose me,” he says. “From the first time I heard The Beatles, I knew this was my path. I’ve followed that passion ever since.”
As EUROPE continues to tour, create and inspire, Mr. Ian's story reminds us of the timeless truths at the heart of rock and roll: authenticity, passion, and the courage to follow the beat of your own drum. In his own words:
“Rock and roll will always be among us. It’s the driving force of music. It connects us all, no matter where we come from.”
Listen to EUROPE's song 'Hold Your Head UP':
Follow Mr. Ian Haugland
Follow EUROPE:
Комментарии