About Quick Facts MembersGunnar ÓlasonVignir Snær VigfússonPálmi SigurhjartarsonMatthías MatthíassonHreimur Örn HeimissonBenedikt Brynleifsson Active2011 Nationality🇮🇸 Icelandic National SelectionSöngvakeppni Sjónvarpsins 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongComing Home (2011) Biography Sjonni’s friends was an Icelandic tribute band,also known at times as Sigurjón’s Friends. The band formed in early 2011 when the Icelandic singer Sjonni Brink (real name Sigurjón Brink) died just days before he was to perform his entry “Aftur heim” at Söngvakeppni Sjónvarpsins, the Icelandic national final for the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. Gunnar Ólason, an Icelandic singer/guitarist, rose to fame with his band “Skítamórall,” formed in 1989. Known for his early musical talent, he achieved his first paid music job at 12. With six albums, including a hit by Sjonni Brink, and gold platinum sales, Gunnar remains a household name in Iceland. He participated in the 2001 ESC with Two Tricky‘s “Angel” and pursues a Bachelor’s degree while recording acoustic soul and blues music. Known as a loner, Gunnar balances a big appetite with a shy demeanor. Vignir Snaer Vigfússon, a master guitarist, songwriter, and singer, is a prominent figure in Iceland’s music scene. He started playing guitar at nine and can play almost any instrument, with a particular passion for collecting guitars. A renowned producer, Vignir has created hits for many Icelandic artists, including Sjonni Brink. He’s also served as the musical director for shows like Icelandic Idol and X-factor, and played in musicals like Hair, Grease, and Footloose. Vignir has represented Iceland three times in the ESC, in various roles from guitarist to composer. He wrote the 2005 entry “If I had your love” for Selma. Pálmi Sigurhjartarson, celebrated for his piano skills, began his music career at eighteen in Reykjavik piano bars. His versatile career spans working with solo artists, big orchestras, and classical singers, and directing music for over 150 TV and radio shows. He’s also known for writing hit pop songs. Pálmi collaborated closely with Sjonni in theatre shows and bands like Rokk and the Flavors, and performed as a duo on various occasions. Pálmi was the musical director for the acclaimed Icelandic Theatre Group Vesturport, recognized with the European Theatre Prize. Their productions have toured globally, including a 2008 project at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, where Pálmi was both performer and musical director. Matthías Matthíasson, from Dalvík, Iceland, gained acclaim at 18 in “Hair” and was nominated as “best newcomer” for “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1995). Known for his powerful, high-ranged rock voice, he’s one of Iceland’s most technical singers, able to hit high notes effortlessly. He’s sung with top bands, earning gold and platinum albums, and was praised by Rolling Stone Magazine for his band Dúndurfréttir’s Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin covers. Collaborating with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, he’s performed in significant concerts like “The Wall.” Matthías is also the voice of Sportacus in “Lazytown” and starred in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” and “Hair.” A family man with three sons, he possesses a unique talent for speaking backwards. Hreimur Örn Heimisson, raised on an Icelandic pig farm, started the successful pop group Land & synir at 19 in 1997, topping charts with their debut single. They quickly became a popular band, releasing four albums and numerous hits. In 2001, Hreimur signed with Warner in New York, but their album was shelved due to 9/11. He continues a successful career in Iceland as a singer-songwriter, deeply impacting Icelandic music. Hreimur, known for his ever-present smile and green eyes, balances music with family life, soccer, and golf. His solo album was set for a 2012 release. Benedikt Brynleifsson, a prominent Icelandic drummer, has been playing professionally for 11 years with top artists and bands. Recently, he performed with Paul Oscar and the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, with concerts at Reykjavík’s Harpa. He’s a member of the band Rokk, founded by Sigurjón Brink. This marks Benedikt’s second Eurovision appearance, previously performing in 2007. His diverse career includes TV performances, modeling, and appearances in commercials, notably playing in house bands for Icelandic Pop Idol and X-Factor. Benedikt has contributed to over 20 albums and numerous singles and is a sought-after session drummer. His rock band, 200.000 Naglbítar, is currently recording an album. Entries Coming Home Country🇮🇸 Iceland Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsÞórunn ClausenSjonni Brink MusicSjonni Brink Backings– Results Semi Points: 100Position: 4Running order: 14 Results Finals Points: 61Position: 20Running order: 21 https://youtu.be/MYVjXG19eVA?si=0g_HAd-MxdY70Rqh
