Arnold Christianson
The North Dakota Music Hall of Fame proudly inducts Arnold Christianson, a pioneering musician and radio performer who played a significant role in shaping the musical landscape of North Dakota. Born on a farm north of Driscoll, North Dakota, in 1908, Christianson’s journey from a self-taught musician to a beloved radio personality is a story of passion, perseverance, and cultural impact.
Early Life and Musical Beginnings
Arnold Christianson grew up in a musical household where he taught himself to play the ukulele, eventually progressing to a banjo and finally settling on the guitar, which became his instrument of choice. His repertoire mainly consisted of old ballads, which he played with great skill and emotion.
Formation of His First Band
In 1927-28, recognizing a need for music at local parties in the Driscoll-Wing area, Christianson formed a band to fill this void. His early performances were well-received, and his love for music continued to grow. In 1930, after performing a mock radio program at a PTA meeting, someone suggested that he try out for a regular radio program, which led him to write to KFYR in Bismarck.
Radio Career
On January 3, 1931, Christianson auditioned for KFYR and was immediately put on the air. The response was so overwhelming that he was scheduled for a second show the same evening. This marked the beginning of a 15-year radio career during which he became a beloved figure on KFYR. He was known for including a Scandinavian song in Norwegian in every program, a tradition that endeared him to a wide audience.
Later Career and Contributions
After his radio career, Christianson became a successful salesman for Electrolux Corp., where he worked for 31 years while still devoting much of his time to music. He produced a record titled 15 Friendly Tunes and was honored by the Sioux in 1941 for writing a version of “Silent Night” in their native language. Christianson also compiled Friendly Songs and Vise, a book of Norwegian folk songs, for radio play.
Personal Life and Legacy
Christianson appeared on radio stations in Bismarck, Mandan, and Fargo from 1931 through 1956. He was an active member of the Masons, United Commercial Travelers, and served as president of the Sons of Norway and the Nordic Chorus. Arnold Christianson was inducted into the North Dakota Music Hall of Fame in 2020, in recognition of his significant contributions to the state’s musical heritage.
