The beloved entertainer and songwriter, known for using humor to discuss life’s harsh realities, passed away.
Finns have a special love for melancholic songs, and the works of Jaakko Teppo, filled with humor and observations on the struggles of life, are widely appreciated.
Teppo passed away on February 26, 2024, at the age of 71. Despite a relatively short active career due to his health, he made a significant impact in the 1980s with his famous songs.
Known for his couplet songs, Teppo often described the lives of rural people, especially those from small farms, like his own background.
His songs reflected the times and struggles of the people, from unemployment to the threat of middle-class characters. His humor was often subtle, never rough or punchy.
Despite the hardships in his songs, Teppo also managed to convey humor in his storytelling. His songs, inspired by Johnny Cash style, often highlighted the struggles of hard work and poor pay in various professions.
In the 1990s, Teppo and his wife faced a setback when their magazine, Piällysmies, went bankrupt. This experience can be heard in his last album, Pers’auken district inspector, released in 1995.
Teppo’s politically left-leaning views are evident in his songs, but they also contain moments of humor and warmth, like his popular song, Pamela.
Despite retiring from performing and making music, Teppo’s work has been celebrated and performed by many artists. His songs, influenced by old iskelmä, folk music, and country music, have also inspired numerous rock artists.
In 2009, a tribute album to Teppo, Pörsänmäki messages – Tribute to Jaakko Tepo, was released, featuring a variety of artists and bands.
Teppo’s stories resonated most with those familiar with the rural and small town life, making him a national figure.
Jaakko Teppo in 2019 in Joensuu.
Jaakko Teppo with his son Ilja in the mid-1980s.
Jaakko Teppo at home in February 2023.
