"Here's the thing ..."

SOLISTEN

Think of a phrase a solo performer might say before sharing a personal reflection, often heard in Norwegian conversations.

The clue plays on the phrase "Here's the thing," which sounds like "hear the sting" when spoken aloud. "Sting" hints at the musician Sting, whose last name is Sumner—but the answer tweaks this to "SOLISTEN," a playful nod to "solo artist" (like Sting) with "listen" embedded inside. It’s a pun blending a common phrase with a musical reference, where the spelling adjusts slightly to fit the crossword’s needs.