Eric Saade

Early Life

Eric Khaled Saade was born in Kattarp, a small village in Helsingborg Municipality, Scania, Sweden. He is the son of Marlene Jacobsson, a Swede, and Walid Saade, a Palestinian from Lebanon. After his parents divorced when he was just four years old, Eric lived with his mother and grew up as the second of eight siblings and half-siblings. His passion for music ignited at a young age after he was inspired by Michael Jackson on television, and he later drew influence from artists like Robbie Williams, Bryan Adams, the Backstreet Boys, and Justin Timberlake.

Career

Saade's music career began in 2007 when he co-founded the boy band What's Up!, alongside Robin Stjernberg, Ludwig "hejLudde" Keijser, and Johan Yngvesson. The band quickly gained popularity, touring Sweden and releasing their debut album, "In Pose," which included hits like "Go Girl!" and "If I Told You Once." However, in February 2009, Saade left the group to pursue a solo career. He signed with Roxy Recordings and released his first solo single, "Sleepless," in December 2009. His breakthrough came in 2011 when he represented Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "Popular," finishing in third place and solidifying his status as a pop sensation.

Personal Life

Eric Saade's personal life has been in the spotlight as much as his music career. He dated fellow singer Molly Sandén from 2007 to 2012 and later became engaged to influencer Nicole Falciani in January 2019, although they ended their relationship in May 2020. In 2020, he began dating fashion influencer Hanna Schönberg, and they welcomed their son, Zayn, in July 2026. Saade continues to be a prominent figure in the Swedish music scene, known for his energetic performances and catchy pop hits.