As we wait for Astrid S to arrive at Notion HQ, we’re not quite sure what to expect. It’s the day after her epic support slot for Years & Years at London’s O2 Arena, and if she’s late or even fails to show at all, I think we could forgive her. Not many international artists who are yet to release an album can boast stage-time at one of the UK’s biggest venues, so we’re happy for the Norwegian pop starlet to soak up the moment. But in spite of our predictions, she rolls up on time and with just as much enthusiasm as she did on stage 10 hours beforehand. She might be young, but there’s no denying that she’s a professional.

When I learn a little about her background, her fervour makes total sense. Born and raised in a small village in Norway which houses just 1,000 people, the 22-year-old had spent her younger years yearning for international recognition, imitating Britney Spears in the mirror so that she was stage ready by the time the labels came knocking. Taking on singing lessons, piano practise and a place in her towns coveted marching band, she was determined to do anything that would push her closer to obtaining her life-long goal of being an international pop-star. But by the time she’d reached her teen years, Astrid had already disregarded her dreams and goals as small-town wishes, rendering them totally as unobtainable. Thankfully, a happy-go-lucky appearance on the Norwegian Pop Idol went better than she anticipated, and despite finishing fifth, she became recognised across Norway as one of their most promising singing talents. Fast forward to now and she’s clocked up millions of Spotify streams, supported Troye Sivan and has has her sights set on dominating the UK.

As she preps for a massive 2019, we sat down with Astrid S to talk Abba, her LGBTQ+ fans and repelling self-doubt.