Zara Larsson’s ‘Midnight Sun’ Success Revives 2016 Nostalgia
Zara Larsson has made a notable return to the spotlight in 2026, reminiscent of her early years in the music industry. This week, she placed three songs on the Billboard Hot 100: “Stateside” featuring PinkPantheress at No. 30, “Lush Life” at No. 36, and “Midnight Sun” at No. 69. This remarkable feat ties her with Taylor Swift and places her just behind Olivia Dean, who leads with five songs on the chart.
The Rise of Zara Larsson
The last time Zara achieved three concurrent hits on the Hot 100 was in 2016, when she was just 17. Back then, her singles included “Never Forget You,” which peaked at No. 13, and “Ain’t My Fault,” which reached No. 76.
Early Achievements
Zara’s musical journey began in 2008 when she won Sweden’s version of America’s Got Talent at age 10. Soon after, she landed her first top 10 hit in Sweden with a cover of Céline Dion’s classic, “My Heart Will Go On.”
- 2016: Named one of TIME’s 30 most influential teens.
- Opened for Beyoncé during her Formation World Tour.
Path to Success
In 2017, Zara collaborated with Clean Bandit on “Symphony,” which gained renewed popularity in 2024 through TikTok memes. Users creatively associated her catchy hook with whimsical imagery, contributing to its resurgence.
Midnight Sun Era
In April 2025, Zara released her fifth studio album, “Midnight Sun,” introducing it with the lead single “Pretty Ugly.” The album’s title track, released on June 13, showcased Zara’s ability to connect with audiences, particularly during her tour as the opening act for Tate McRae.
The Music Video
The music video for “Midnight Sun,” which premiered shortly after the single, featured vibrant visuals reminiscent of 2000s fashion. Zara managed to tap into the cultural resurgence of her earlier works, recalling the success of the dolphin meme.
- Collaboration with Lisa Frank for a special edition CD.
- Incorporated a nostalgic and visually stunning aesthetic.
A Grammy Nomination and Viral Trends
On November 7, 2026, just after her tour began, “Midnight Sun” earned a Grammy nomination for Best Dance Pop Recording. This milestone occurred nearly ten years after the release of her hit “Lush Life.”
Viral Collaborations
A special moment during her Amsterdam concert resulted in a viral dance trend. Inviting a fan onstage allowed the song “Lush Life” to resurface on the Hot 100, illustrating Zara’s ongoing relevance in the industry.
Final Thoughts
As Zara prepares to kick off the American leg of her tour in 2026, she continues attracting attention, collaborating with influential artists and embracing internet culture. Her ability to merge nostalgia with contemporary pop sensibilities sets her apart in today’s music landscape.
Zara Larsson’s journey over the past decade shows her resilience and adaptability, turning her 2016 nostalgia into a powerful comeback. She remains a significant force in pop music, demonstrating that artists can evolve while staying true to their roots.
