Sami Osala is a Finnish drummer best known for his role in the internationally successful rock band Sunrise Avenue. He joined the band in 2005, contributing to their distinctive sound and energetic performances as they gained worldwide recognition with hits like Fairytale Gone Bad, Forever Yours, and Hollywood Hills.
Osala’s professional music career began in 2000, though his passion for drumming started much earlier—at the age of 9—when he received his first drum set. He refined his skills with local drum teachers and later advanced his studies at conservatories, deepening his musical expertise.
After Sunrise Avenue’s farewell in 2022, Osala became the drummer for The Blanko and continued his career as a freelance drummer, session musician, and collaborator. With decades of experience in live performances and studio recordings, he remains an active and sought-after musician in the industry.
The BLANKO is a Finnish alternative rock band known for its high-energy live performances and bold fusion of pop, rock, and electronic elements, creating a distinctive modern retro rock sound.
The trio consists of frontman and songwriter Pauli Hauta-aho—also recognized for his decade-long involvement with Apulanta—bassist Jykke Tikka, and drummer Sami Osala, who joined after the breakup of Sunrise Avenue.
Currently, they are working on new material, with their latest single, Shine, released on March 5, 2025. As of March 2025, The BLANKO has accumulated over 4.6 million total plays in Spotify ,with standout tracks like Electric Desire, Addiction, and Slave to My Passion.
Osala has recorded or performed with various artists, including
Sami Osala is proud to be endorsed by:
– Gretch Drums
– DW Drums Hardware
– Remo Drumheads
– Zildjian Cymbals
