Norwegian pop sensations M2M, consisting of Marit Larsen and Marion Raven, have made a surprising return to the music scene after a 22-year hiatus. The duo, known for their ethereal vocals and harmonies, caught up with CNA Lifestyle to reflect on their journey back to each other and their upcoming comeback tour.
THE UNEXPECTED REUNION
Marion Raven and Marit Larsen, the talented duo behind M2M, found themselves unexpectedly face to face in a cafe in Oslo, Norway in April 2024. This chance encounter marked the beginning of a rekindled friendship that had a profound impact on not just their lives but also on a generation of music lovers. M2M’s debut album, Shades Of Purple, released in 2000, achieved massive success, with their hit single “Don’t Say You Love Me” becoming a global sensation after featuring on the soundtrack of the first Pokemon movie. Despite their initial success, the duo disbanded in 2002 after their follow-up album, The Big Room, failed to meet expectations.
After over two decades of minimal communication, the serendipitous meeting between Raven and Larsen reignited a spark that led to their decision to reunite. Reflecting on their journey, Larsen expressed how the encounter felt like a twist of fate, with only the two of them in the coffee shop, as if the universe had orchestrated their reunion.
PREPARING FOR THE COMEBACK TOUR
As they prepare for their highly anticipated comeback tour, M2M intentionally timed their reunion to align with their lyrics, creating a sense of synchronicity and destiny. Sharing a clip of their song “The Day You Went Away” recorded in Raven’s living room ignited a wave of excitement among their fans, showcasing the enduring impact of their music even after all these years. The decision to keep their reunion a secret until the release date added a layer of intimacy and excitement to their comeback, bringing them closer together as friends.
The Better Endings Tour 2025 will kick off in Asia, with performances in Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, and Thailand before culminating in Singapore on May 12. Raven expressed their desire to start the tour in Asia, a region that holds special memories for them due to the overwhelming support and connection they have with their Asian fans. The decision to move their Singapore performance to a larger venue reflects the enduring appeal and enthusiasm of their fan base in the region.
A JOURNEY BACK TO THEIR ROOTS
As they prepare to take the stage once again, Raven and Larsen embrace the nostalgia of their music, revisiting the purity and fearlessness of their songwriting from their teenage years. With a full band accompanying them, the duo plans to create a celebratory atmosphere that allows fans to relive the magic of their music. Despite the years that have passed since their heyday, Raven and Larsen’s voices still blend seamlessly, capturing the essence of what made M2M so special.
For Raven and Larsen, the reunion goes beyond just performing on stage. It signifies a return to the core of their friendship and the essence of what made M2M a beloved duo. As they look forward to reconnecting with their younger selves and sharing their music with a new generation of fans, the duo remains grounded in the advice they would give their younger selves – to cherish the friendship and stay true to the reasons they pursued music in the first place.
As M2M prepares to embark on their tour and share their timeless music with fans old and new, the essence of their sound remains unchanged, a testament to the enduring power of music to transcend time and bring people together in celebration and nostalgia.
