M2M, the Norwegian pop duo that captured the hearts of fans worldwide in the early 2000s, surprised everyone with a long-awaited reunion in 2024.
Marion Raven and Marit Larsen, once teenage stars, are now back on stage as M2M after more than two decades apart.
Whether you’re a lifelong fan or you’ve never heard of them, here are ten fascinating facts about M2M. From their rise to fame to their unexpected return to the forefront of Norwegian music, let’s dive into the duo’s story.
1. They Were Childhood Friends Before Becoming Pop Stars
Marion Raven and Marit Larsen first met as young children in Lørenskog, just northeast of Oslo, Norway. Their musical journey started early—they performed together at local events and even released an album under their own names as kids.
By the time they were teenagers, their natural chemistry as singer-songwriters was undeniable. Their talent caught the attention of major record labels, leading to their debut as M2M.
2. Their Big Break Came from Pokémon
M2M’s debut single, Don’t Say You Love Me, became an international sensation when it was featured on the soundtrack of Pokémon: The First Movie in 1999.
At a time when Pokémon was at its peak popularity, the exposure helped launch the duo onto the global stage.
The song became a hit, charting in multiple countries, and M2M even performed it at major events like the Radio Disney Music Awards.
3. Their Debut Album Was a Global Success
Released in 2000, Shades of Purple was a defining album of early 2000s pop, earning multi-platinum status in several countries, particularly in the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Unlike many teen pop acts of the era, M2M co-wrote their songs, giving their music an authenticity that resonated with fans.
Hits like Mirror Mirror, Everything You Do, and Pretty Boy became anthems for a teen generation, while Don’t Say You Love Me continued its Pokémon-fuelled success.
Their raw, acoustic-pop sound stood out from the heavily produced pop of the time, and fans appreciated that both Marion Raven and Marit Larsen played their own instruments.
M2M’s global reach was amplified by touring with Britney Spears and appearances on MTV’s TRL and The Rosie O’Donnell Show.
4. They Were Hugely Popular in Asia
While M2M found success worldwide, they were especially beloved in Asia, where they enjoyed a level of stardom that rivaled top Western acts. Their music resonated deeply with audiences in Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and Taiwan.
They regularly toured the region, appeared on TV shows, and even recorded Mandarin versions of their songs to connect with fans. Decades later, their music remains a staple in karaoke playlists across Asia.
5. Their Second Album Marked a Shift in Their Sound
Released in 2002, The Big Room showcased a more mature, acoustic-driven sound, reflecting their growth as artists.
While still rooted in pop, the album had a rawer, more introspective feel, with songs like Everything and What You Do About Me hinting at deeper emotional themes.
Despite critical praise, the album didn’t match the commercial success of Shades of Purple, and their label, Atlantic Records, decided to disband the duo.
6. They Went Their Separate Ways, But Stayed in Music
After M2M disbanded, Marion Raven pursued a solo career with a rock-influenced sound, releasing Here I Am in 2005.
She collaborated with rock legends like Meat Loaf on Bat Out of Hell III and later embraced a more folk-pop sound in her Norwegian-language music.
Her song Flesh and Bone was praised by Scandipop: “It’s catchy on the first listen, and verging on addictive on second listen. It’s got a brilliantly ballsy chorus, an irresistably memorable repetitive bit after each chorus, and a middle eight that has two parts – both masterpieces. Oh my word, we’re in love!”
Marit Larsen, on the other hand, took a break before reinventing herself as a folk-pop artist.
Her solo career was a huge success, especially in Norway and Germany, with hits like If A Song Could Get Me You. She won several Norwegian Grammy Awards and gained recognition for her storytelling-driven songwriting.
7. Their Reunion Was Purely Coincidental
For over 20 years, Raven and Larsen had little contact, each focusing on their individual lives and careers. Then, in April 2024, they ran into each other by chance at a café in Oslo.
The moment felt surreal—almost as if it had been orchestrated by fate. That serendipitous meeting reignited their friendship, leading to the realization that they had unfinished business as M2M.
“When it sparked so much joy, it felt like a no-brainer that we should absolutely go back on tour,” said Larsen to CNA Lifestyle.
8. They Announced Their Comeback in a Nostalgic Way
When the idea of a reunion began to take shape, the duo wanted to reveal it in a special way. They recorded an acoustic version of The Day You Went Away in Raven’s living room but waited months to release it.
Then, on September 22, 2024, at 9:25 AM Oslo time, they posted the video online—perfectly matching the lyrics of the song: “I remember date and time, September 22nd, Sunday, 25 after nine.”
The post immediately went viral, with thousands of fans expressing their excitement and nostalgia. The careful timing only added to the magic of their long-awaited return.
9. Their Reunion Tour Starts in Asia
In a heartfelt nod to their most devoted fans, M2M’s reunion tour, The Better Endings Tour 2025, kicks off in Asia, where their music has remained a nostalgic favourite.
The tour will visit Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Singapore, with overwhelming demand for tickets.
Originally, their Singapore show was planned for a small venue of 900 seats, but after tickets sold out almost instantly, they moved to a 5,000-seat venue.
The overwhelming response confirmed that their music still holds a special place in the hearts of fans.
10. Their Friendship Remains at the Heart of M2M
Reflecting on their early years, both Raven and Larsen acknowledge that the pressures of the music industry strained their relationship. This time around, they are prioritizing their friendship above all else.
“If I could go back and tell our younger selves one thing, it would be: Remember that the most important thing is the friendship. Always talk to each other about everything. Don’t listen to all the grown-ups and the music business around you. Keep that outside and keep the friendship safe.” – Marion Raven
Now in their 40s, both women are embracing this second chapter of M2M as a celebration of their journey, their fans, and the timeless music that continues to resonate across generations.
With The Better Endings Tour in full swing, fans are wondering—could this reunion lead to new music? The duo has hinted at the possibility but remains focused on enjoying the moment. For now, their return is a reminder that great music never truly fades—it just waits for the right time to be rediscovered.
Great insights about M2M! Really enjoyed the part about their popularity in Asia. I was curious about their style evolving over time. Do you think this shift in sound during their second album was influenced by any particular artists or trends? Also, was there any particular reason for their long hiatus before the 2024 reunion? Happy to see them back on stage. Cheers!