Although we’re officially into the Eurovision 2024 season, it will still be some time before we hear any national final and Eurovision songs. Thankfully, the music will always continue and a number of Eurovision artists are still producing new songs for us to enjoy.
Contrary to the commonly perpetuated myth about the song contest killing careers, we’re always thrilled to report that singers associated with Eurovision are thriving.
Here is our latest weekly roundup with a selection of the songs and music videos released recently by Eurovision stars.
New music from Eurovision artists: 2023 | Week 40
Pasha Parfeni & Dara – “Fetele”
We kick off this week’s new music roundup with a traditional banger! Pasha Parfeni has represented Moldova in Eurovision twice: first in 2012, and then again this year, achieving a huge success among Eurofans on both occasions. His latest song, “Fetele” (Girls), is a feminist anthem infused with folkloric influences and myths. The track is a collaboration with Dara and was co-written by the duo along with Pasha’s wife, Yuliana Scutaru. Just like his Eurovision entry, Pasha has various traditional influences, deriving lyrical inspiration from folklore. In this song, we once again have the pleasure of hearing Sergiu, the “epic flute guy,” who previously collaborated with Pasha on his Eurovision 2023 entry.
The lyrics themselves tell a captivating fairytale. Pasha portrays a man who, without realizing what he already possesses, attempts to “escape his destiny.” However, he comes to the realization that he still yearns for the same girl he left behind. As he acknowledges that he has “messed up the same way” and has become “lost in clouds of smoke,” he longs to return. Dara’s part completes the story as she raises questions about his departure: “Who made you search for something else? Didn’t they know that your faith is mine?.” Finally, the chorus expresses how the wheels of fate drive life forward, and the conclusion of the story rests in the hands of the girl: “Girls spin like water/ The waters turn the wheel/ The wheel move our fate/ The fate is decided by the girl.” The song comes with the hashtag #FeteleDecid (#GirlsDecide).
In the music video, Pasha assumes the role of a monk in golden clothes, meditating on a glass cube. He describes this as “the prophecy of the golden hermit.” The female characters in the video resemble water spirits in the River of Life, symbolizing protectors and feminine power. Some mystical occurrences took place during the video shoot. Pasha confessed how rain and a strong wind began precisely when they started to film at the stone quarry. He also explained the challenges faced by the girls as they filmed scenes in the water, struggling to breathe through the wet cloths covering their faces.
Little Big & bbno$ – “IT HAPPENS”
Little Big were set to participate in Eurovision 2020, but unfortunately the COVID-19 pandemic halted their plans. Now, the remaining two members are active in the American music scene. Their latest song is a collaboration with the rapper bbno$, and it carries the rather straightforward motto, “Shit happens.” The track blends elements of pop, electronic music and rap, boasting an incredibly catchy melody. The lyrics, laced with irony, delve into the theme of money and fame: “Did a show in Quebec/ Had a bunch of fans, got a check/ Went to Vegas, placed a bet/ Lost my girl, lost the jet/ Shit happens!” Other parts of the lyrics are emphasizing the importance of loyalty despite wealth (“Wouldn’t change you for another/ Money’s just a number, I will always be there for you”), but the music video takes an ironic turn, revolving around a story of infidelity. The music video exhibits strong cinematic influences, with its story set in a world of mimes. Ilich once again showcases his exceptional acting skills, embodying a perfect mime. The entire music video transports viewers back to the era of silent movies.
Ben Cristovao – “POTIM KREV”
Ben Cristovao, known by Eurofans as Benny Cristo, was chosen by the Czech Republic to represent the country twice in 2021 (after 2020 was cancelled). His new song is an exceptional rap track that will instantly remind you that Ben is an outstanding rapper. His rap flow perfectly complements the beat, guaranteeing that you’ll be vibing to this track for sure. Ben’s powerful vocals create a song that radiates attitude and unshakable self-confidence.
Albina Kelmendi – “Krejt Veten” and “Sa per mu” (with Gold AG)
Albina Kelmendi has had a busy few days, with two new singles being released. On Saturday, Albania’s Eurovision 2023 star shared “Krejt Veten” (“All of Myself”). The song is dedicated to Albina’s husband, being released on their wedding anniversary. Starting off as a piano ballad, the song builds later with the addition of other instrumentation. Albina described the song as “The best gift I could give to the man of my heart!”
Earlier in the week, “Sa per mu” (“As for me”) was released. This sees Albina teaming up with Albanian rapper Gold AG for a mid-tempo track. It mixes Albina’s sung choruses with Gold AG’s rap verses.
Alyosha & Vlad Darwin – “Причастя”
Alyosha, the Ukrainian star who represented her country in the grand final of Eurovision back in 2010, has teamed up with Vlad Darwin for her latest song. The English title of their new track is “Communion.” In the official audio version of the song, you can immediately sense the chemistry between the two artists, and the lyrics in Ukrainian are also featured in the clip. The track is a captivating retro-influenced pop song. According to the YouTube description, the song addresses real challenges faced by Ukrainians, including “the desire for revenge, the pain of guilt, family separation, lawlessness, betrayal, and depression.” The song made its debut at the 2023 Muzvar Awards. The lyrics of the song express an unquenchable longing: “Tears of redemption on the chest/ I long for/ I want/ To be with you/ To be/ I long for/ I want/ To be with you.” Alyosha shared her feelings about how Vlad’s song resonated with her:
“With this song, Vlad tapped into the deepest emotions I was experiencing at that moment. Through the song, he provided a platform to express yourself in a way that may not be possible in everyday life… I’m confident that millions of Ukrainians will strongly feel and understand the meaning. I sincerely hope this song finds a place in the playlists of everyone who values genuine love!”
Rosa López – “Miedos”
Rosa, who represented Spain in the 2002 Eurovision competition, has brought all her recent singles together into the new album Señales. It also comes with a brand new track in which she overcomes all her fears. The English translation of the title is “Fears.” The song incorporates powerful dance influences, and its music video strikingly balances fear and liberation. The lyrics are about the battle against anxiety and panic: “Kisses from anxiety that are of no use/ Distorted reality that doesn’t let me breathe/ I want to scream/ I must be silent/ The things that no one knows.” Rosa dedicates this song to individuals who confront their daily fears and challenges, emphasizing in the music video’s description that it is a tribute to all those who can relate to its message. It serves as a reminder that no one is alone and that there is always someone to lean on, as life is a unique journey meant to be shared. Rosa has been candid about her experiences with anxiety on her social media platforms:
“There was a time in my life when I felt trapped, as if I were encircled by an impenetrable wall of fears. My insecurities cast shadows over my path. However, one day, something shifted. I realized that all my fears were creations of my own mind. The obstacles I perceived were mental constructs, not real barriers. The way out was within me. (…) The road to improvement is challenging, but it is in that process of confronting and growing through challenges where we discover our true selves. And at the end of the day, the person you see in the mirror remains the same, but stronger, braver, and more self-assured.”
Luca Hänni & Sunlike Brothers – “Fire”
Luca has joined the list of artists with exciting collaborations this week, featuring his new track, “Fire,” with Sunlike Brothers. Luca represented Switzerland in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019. Sunlike Brothers inject their EDM sound into Luca’s track. The song is a perfect romantic anthem. The lyrics emphasize the deep love he feels for his partner: “Baby, you’re fire/ My lonely desire/ I need you now/ I need your fire.” Notably, this is the first track Luca has recorded in his new home studio, and it’s his first song where he is also in charge of the vocal production. The song is a high-energy and vibrant addition to your playlist.
Laura Tesoro – “Car Wreck Paradise”
Laura, the talented Belgian artist who represented her country in the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest, has just released what she affectionately calls “her favorite song so far” The track is a perfect blend of pop and EDM, featuring a magnificent drop at the chorus and Laura’s incredible vocals that beautifully complement the song. The lyrics of the song revolve around the theme of getting lost in emotions and diving headfirst into a relationship, despite the challenges, because the journey itself is as valuable as the destination: “Drive me away into the night/ With you looking lost a billion times/ Let’s ride until the engine dies/ And call it our car wreck paradise.”
The Travellers feat. Ira Losco – “L-Imħabba Kelma Kbira Wisq”
Ira Losco, who represented Malta twice in the Eurovision Song Contest, first in 2002 and then in 2016, has released a beautiful ballad accompanied by a touching black and white music video, filled with tenderness, love, and raw emotions. The song is a collaboration with the band The Travellers, and its English title is “Love is a Word too Big.” The lyrics of this heartfelt ballad revolve around the idea that love is a feeling too profound and complex to be described in words. It’s something that can only be truly understood and experienced when you’re with the right person, both during the good times and the challenging ones: “Love is a word too big, you won’t find a definition but for me it is you/ Nothing keeps me from staying here in the lion’s mouth every day, whatever the situation may be.”
Damir Kedžo – “Sreća to je kada te imam”
Damir, who was selected to represent Croatia at Eurovision in 2020 before the event was canceled, has released a captivating new song characterized by a beautiful acoustic sound — a powerful ballad that serves as a heartfelt love song. The title, “Happiness is When I Have You,” captures perfectly the essence of the song. The music video, metaphorically speaking, portrays how love can transform a black and white life into a colourful one. The lyrics underline the immense power of genuine love and how the right person can bring immense joy: “When I look at my life as in a mirror/ Only you were always there when I needed/ And as I walked the path of a dream, through defeats to victory/ I went up to the top and down to the bottom/ You were always there.”
NAVIBAND – “Поезд”
The charming duo, NAVIBAND, have unveiled their latest song, titled “Train.” The track boasts a serene yet emotionally charged sound. The lyrics touch the theme of departure and the accompanying pain it brings: “I stand alone in front of you/ In the hands of the whole life/ And I don’t hide my anxiety/ Goodbye my love/ My city wishes me a safe journey.” The song carries multiple layers of meaning, particularly for the band, as they have relocated to Israel. It serves as a farewell to those they’ve left behind and to their homeland. The song arrives with a heartfelt message, indicating the band’s emotional journey and the bittersweet experience of moving: “With love and sadness for the native land. To all those who are not at home.”
Kaliopi – “Kad osvane”
In the music video for her latest song, Kaliopi embarks on a journey through love, music, and a range of emotions. The Macedonian legend, who participated in Eurovision twice, in 2012 and 2016, is back with a new song that brings a deeply touching sound. Kaliopi’s powerful voice takes us on a captivating journey through a spectrum of emotions. The song’s lyrics speak about how nothing is permanent, and life should be cherished and enjoyed to the fullest: “I feel like dancing tonight/ I would love to be kissed mmm…”
Koit Toome & Púr Múdd – “Tunnen Taas”
Koit Toome, who has represented Estonia twice at Eurovision, has released a new song in collaboration with Púr Múdd, who you’ll recognise from multiple Eesti Laul appearances. This song, titled “I Feel Again,” contains a wide range of musical elements, from the warmth of a cozy acoustic guitar to the energetic vibes of electronic EDM influences. It’s a unique blend that is sure to capture your attention. The song’s lyrics revolve around the themes of feeling and hoping once more, giving love another chance: “I forget myself too often/ And then I try to find strength again/ Something is pulling me towards you/ If only I knew that/ (…) I feel again that I can hope now/ I feel that I can win again.”
PAENDA – CALL ME CAT
PAENDA, who represented Austria in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2019, has recently released a powerful new album that is bound to leave a lasting impression. Her new album consists of nine pop-dance tracks, each carrying important messages on various serious themes such as self-love (“loving myself”), self-prioritization (“narcissistic brain”), and the issue of catcalling (“call me cat”).
The title track, “call me cat,” stands out as a strong feminist anthem that addresses the problem of verbal street harassment, commonly referred to as “catcalling.” While some of these songs may have been previously released as singles, they now come together to form an impressive and impactful album. PAENDA’s work not only showcases her musical talent but also her dedication to addressing important social issues through her art. About writing the album, PAENDA stated:
“Writing this album meant a lot to me, because I was done being afraid of backlashes when talking about stuff that’s important to me but might upset somebody else. It felt freeing to let it all flow into my music.”
Omar Naber – “Queen of Heart”
Omar Naber, who represented Slovenia twice at Eurovision, has released a new track that showcases his versatility and musical talent. The song begins as a powerful ballad and seamlessly transforms into a rock song, demonstrating Naber’s ability to excel in both genres. The instrumental features impressive violin insertions, adding depth and emotion to the composition. The song’s lyrics revolve around a confession that needs to be made, conveying the theme of a love that is unravelling: “Tonight’s the night I feel I should confess it all/ My heart tells it’s time for a final call/ You are here with me, you’re looking in my eyes/ No agenda, no plans, and no lies.”
Nick Zisou feat. Ilias Kozas – “Gaida”
Ilias, the former lead singer of Koza Mostra, who represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2013, has collaborated with Nick Zisou on a new song that radiates Greek authenticity while infusing traditional elements with electronic music. The resulting track is a total banger, tailor-made for rocking clubs and radio stations. The fusion of Greek traditional influences with electronic elements adds a unique and authentic flavour to the music. As the chorus suggests, this is the kind of song you’ll want to play “over and over” due to its infectious and captivating sound.
Blanche & Bjorn Eriksson – “Shattered”
Blanche, the talented Belgian artist who represented her country in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2017, has collaborated with Bjorn Eriksson to create the perfect soundtrack for the Belgian film “Shattered.” The movie delves into themes of confronting one’s past and facing tormentors. The song, with its modern and contemporary sound, captures the essence of the film’s narrative. Its lyrics evoke a sense of melancholy, touching on the theme of dreams being swept away and shattered: “Scared to love/ Scared to feel/ Children’s books lost and found/ Broken dreams flying around/ Shattered.”
Duncan Laurence & Douwe Bob
Duncan Laurence and Douwe Bob were back again this weekend for another episode of Beste Zangers 2023, which this week was focused around singer-songwriter MEAU. Duncan Laurence’s cover of “Als geen ander” (“Like no other”) is the Eurovision 2019 winner’s first ever officially released song in the Dutch language. Eurovision 2016 act Douwe Bob decided to translate his cover of “Blijven Rijden” into the English-language track “Keep Driving”.
Which of these new songs is your favourite? Have we missed out on any? Do you have any artists you want to shout out to? Let us know in the comments.
