Bassist John Levén, the Low-End Force Behind Europe - October/November 2026 Issue

Few bands have left as unmistakable a mark on rock music as Sweden’s Europe. Formed in 1979, the band has become one of the genre’s enduring pillars, creating a catalog that continues to resonate with generations of fans around the world.

At the center of that legacy is their iconic mega-hit “The Final Countdown,” which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year.

The song has become far more than a rock anthem; it has been woven into our personal music collections and has found a second life in countless movies, television shows, commercials, sporting events, and pop-culture moments around the globe.

For more than four decades, bassist John Levén has been an essential part of Europe’s signature sound. Joining the band in 1981, Levén has provided the solid low-end foundation beneath Europe’s soaring melodies, powerful riffs, and unmistakable hard-rock identity.

Now, after a nine-year wait, Europe released its twelfth studio album, Come This Madness, on September 25. The new record marks another chapter in a remarkable musical journey that has taken the band from its early days in Sweden to international superstardom and continued relevance on stages around the world.

Bass Musician - Interview with John Leven - Oct-Nov 2026

In this exclusive cover video interview, we sit down with John Levén to talk about his musical journey, how he joined Europe, and the stories behind the band’s evolution. He also takes us inside Come This Madness, sharing details about the new album and revealing how he achieves the iconic bass sound that has helped define Europe for more than 40 years.

We’ll also look back at the enduring legacy of “The Final Countdown,” the band’s plans to celebrate its 40th anniversary, and what the future holds for Europe.

Join me as we go inside the music, the memories, and the future with Europe’s John Levén.