For the third consecutive year, Kosovan broadcaster RTK raises the curtain on one of the nation’s most important music events. Often described as the sister show to Albania’s long-running Festival i Këngës (down to sharing the name), RTK’s version continues to grow in quality and ambition, reflecting the country’s Eurovision dream that still waits in the wings.
This year’s lineup has brought together both emerging and established artists, creating a diverse mix of styles and sounds. Compared to the previous editions, there’s a clear sense of growth in production, artistic quality, and professionalism. Bit by bit, RTK Festival is finding its identity and becoming a credible platform for artists to shine and share their craft with a wider audience.
We’ve already witnessed the two semi-finals, and tonight’s Grand Final promises not only fierce competition but also major surprises. Several special guests will light up the stage, featuring some of the biggest names in Albanian music and beyond.
The Grand Finalists and Special Guests
Here are the Grand Finalists and Special guests:
- Art Lokaj – “Ty”
- Elmedinë Ramushi – “A po m’sheh”
- Florent Abrashi – “Unë dhe Ti”
- Teutë Halili – “Amin”
- Kiara Juba – “Nirvana”
- Klea Dina – “At”
- Laurian Ejlli – “Një natë shkruajta për ty”
- Arjeta Palushaj – “Andrra”
- Arsi Bako – “Rreze zjarr”
- Xuxi – “Identiteti”
Switzerland’s Eurovision 2021 star Gjon’s Tears will appear too. The young artist with Albanian roots made his homeland proud with his stunning Eurovision performances. He is returning to Kosovo to deliver a stunning performance tonight. Dren Abazi and Tuna Sejdi are also appearing tonight; Dren is the founding member of the locally-iconic Zig Zag Orchestra, and Tuna is a legend across many parts of the Balkan region. She will be performing a medley of her greatest hits for her fans.
And finally, Elvana Gjata, the history-making diva of Festival i Këngës, will perform tonight after a second-place finish in Ablania’s counterpart last year. Though she has been somewhat quiet lately, Elvana couldn’t say no to Florent Boshnjaku’s invitation and is ready to bring a wave of emotion to tonight’s stage.
The RTK Festival final marks another important step in Kosovo’s musical journey, one that brings it ever closer to the Eurovision dream so many have longed to see fulfilled.
Will you be tuning into Kosovo’s celebration tonight? Do you have a favourite in the show? Who should represent Kosovo should they participate in the Eurovision Song Contest? Let us know what you think in the comments below!
