Jantso Jokelin

Blues Artist | Author

”Jantso’s vocals are pleasant, his lyrics frequently pieces of folksy literature, and his instrumental work on both harmonica and guitar are excellent.”
– John Sacksteder, Blues Blast Magazine (USA)

”Stumbling upon such deep otherworldliness is a rare occurrence in contemporary blues.”
– Pekka Laine, Soundi (FI)

“Although Jantso Jokelin is a singer, guitar and harmonica player from Finland, his knowledge of the most traditional dark blues, folk and American country music, make him an expert singer and songwriter who can rub shoulders with the most outstanding performers of the style.”
– Vicente Zúmel, La Hora del Blues (ES)

Hi there! I’m Jantso, a folk blues artist, singer-songwriter, and author based in Helsinki, Finland.

My music is deeply rooted in acoustic blues, country, and folk traditions, which I aim to refresh through original compositions, personal verse, and at times daring stylistic experiments like beatboxing and influences from various global traditions. I have a special passion for diatonic and chromatic harmonicas as well as resonator and slide guitars.

In July 2024, I was selected as Finland's representative for the European Blues Challenge, which will take place in Split, Croatia, in Spring 2025. Other highlights include earning 3rd place in the open category at the 2009 World Harmonica Contest in Trossingen, Germany, and winning Finland's National Championship of Busking.

I actively perform as a solo act and also collaborate with other musicians. I’ve written the first comprehensive book on the harmonica in Finnish and conducted numerous workshops and classes on the art of harmonica and blues.

In addition to music, I’m also the author of several books and numerous long-form features, essays, and travelogues. In 2019, I was named Finnish Magazine Journalist of the Year.

2024

Spark of Luck

My debut full-length solo album Spark of Luck brings together two digital EPs (Taxi to a Housefire & Silver Lining) in a single CD release.

11 original songs of resonating blues and storytelling songwriter folk guaranteed to spark a light in your day!

”This is the work of a young man with plenty to say, and a persuasive (both vocally and instrumentally) way of saying it.” – Ben McNair, Blues Matters! Magazine (UK)

Available for international order from
Record Shop X.