Say Cheese! Tollef On ‘Stranger Things’ Throughout His Career (Part 3)

Marking the 3th release of the Say Cheese EP on Oliver Heldens’ imprint OH2 Records, Tollef shows emotional side with ‘Like A Stranger’. To get to know the Norwegian up-and-coming producer a bit more, this interview series dives into Tollef’s artistic and personal journey, exploring the themes of collaboration, friendship, and creativity that define his sound.

What is the weirdest fan gift you have ever received?
I have actually never received any physical gifts so to speak, but I do feel like random, out of the blue messages on social media are just as much of a gift as physical ones. For instance, after my show at the Heldeep 10 Year Anniversary in Amsterdam, a lot of people have been messaging me saying that they had a great time during my set and really enjoyed what I did. They did not have to do that, as most of them had never heard of me before. I’m so thankful for that. So no weird gifts, only super kind messages.

Who did you start working with as a stranger who became a friend?
All of the people I’ve worked with are great people, but I’m now happy to call RetroVision (and also the rest of the gang from MBMG) my friends. Mathieu (RetroVision) and I started working together remotely, and at some point he invited me to join a writing camp in France. I had never met him or the other guys at More Bass More Good before, but they welcomed me with open arms. Such a great community to be part of.

What’s the most unexpected feedback you’ve received from a stranger about your music?
Probably that I need to use my guitar more (haha). Sometimes, I don’t include the little guitar riff in the drop if I don’t think it suits the track, but people seem to really want that in every track. I’m gonna have to listen to them at some point.

If a total stranger discovered you today, which of your songs should they hear first (besides Like A Stranger)?
In order for the stranger to know what I’m about, I think the quite recent remix for Oliver Heldens’ song Heart Cry is a nice starting point. It has the sample chopped feel and groove I love. Also, one of my earlier songs like “Sunshine” is something they should check out, as it has a bit more of my classic guitar sound in it.

If ‘Like A Stranger’ was a soundtrack for a movie scene, what kind of scene would it be?
I think “Like A Stranger” would work well as a soundtrack in a romantic kind of movie where a relationship is coming to an end. We all sometimes feel like strangers both to our loved ones and sometimes to ourselves. After being in a relationship for over 10 years, I would definitely say that communication is key. So if the movie I’m picturing ends with the couple communicating and finding each other again, that would be awesome.

What made you smile most while making this track?
I think the simplicity of the drop. It just creates a mellow vibe once it hits, and Alma’s vocals are so emotional and soothing. Works perfectly for the track. I made the song idea very quickly and have probably blasted it in my car too many times before actually making a song out of it, but those moments are what keeps me going.