Australian-Macedonian singer Bobi Andonov shows interest in competing at Eurovision 2026

Bobi Andonov: Facebook

Australian-Macedonian singer and former Junior Eurovision artist Bobi Andonov has expressed strong interest in representing North Macedonia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.

In a recent interview with Слободен Печат (Sloboden Pechat), one of North Macedonia’s leading daily newspapers, Bobi revealed he is in contact with the country’s national broadcaster, Macedonian Radio Television (MRT), about the possibility of competing at Eurovision.

"That desire has always been there. No matter where music has taken me, whether in America, Australia or Europe, I have never forgotten my home. Macedonia is in my blood. As an artist, I have grown a lot and now I feel ready to bring something strong back to the country that raised me. Eurovision seems to me like the perfect opportunity to connect with the people and give something valuable."

Bobi also shared that he's preparing to return to North Macedonia to pursue this dream more seriously:

"This is not just a dream, but something I have been planning and seriously thinking about for a long time. I spoke to MRT and expressed my desire, and I am also preparing to return to Macedonia at the beginning of next year. If the country decides to participate, I will be fully committed. I want to give my whole heart."

When asked about the musical direction of a potential Eurovision entry, Bobi emphasised a fusion of his signature style with cultural elements:

"I think there is a beautiful balance. I would like to create a song that reflects my artistic style (cinematic, emotional and bold), but at the same time visually and sonically includes Macedonian elements that will reflect our culture. The song should sound global, but at its core be personal and authentic."

Early Beginnings and Junior Eurovision

Bobi Andonov was born in Melbourne in 1994 to Macedonian parents from Strumica, North Macedonia. He began singing at the age of six and dancing at seven, later learning to play the piano and flute. By nine, he was already performing in youth musicals, including playing Danny Zuko in a junior production of Grease. He regularly participated in cabarets, eisteddfods, and school performances.

His talent led him to professional roles, including playing Young Simba in productions of The Lion King in both Melbourne and Shanghai.

Bobi was also well known within the Macedonian community, notably for his heartfelt tribute performance of Toše Proeski’s Life, honouring the late Macedonian pop icon.

Before his Junior Eurovision journey, Bobi attended Mill Park Heights Primary School, spoke four languages, and sang in both a children’s studio and church choir.

In September 2008, he entered the Macedonian national final Dečja pesna Eurovizije to represent FYR Macedonia at Junior Eurovision. Performing Prati Mi SMS (Send Me SMS), Bobi won both the jury and televote with top scores of 12 points each.

At just 14 years old, he went on to represent FYR Macedonia at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2008 in Lemesos (Limassol), Cyprus, finishing in an impressive 5th place with 93 points, North Macedonia’s joint best result to date.

Career After Junior Eurovision

Bobi’s success at Junior Eurovision inspired him to pursue an international music career. He toured across the Balkans and, in 2010, competed in Season 4 of Australia’s Got Talent, winning the public vote in his semi-final and making it to the grand final.

In 2013, at age 18, he debuted his first self-penned single, War Is Love. His songwriting career took off further in 2014 when he co-wrote Born to Run for Dutch DJ Afrojack. In 2015, he wrote songs for Melbourne DJ Joel Fletcher and co-wrote Stone, the winner’s single for The X Factor Australia champion Cyrus Villanueva. The track peaked at No. 4 on the ARIA Singles Chart.

Influenced by artists like Terence Trent D'Arby, Prince, and George Michael, Bobi moved to the United States in 2015, where he continued to evolve as a singer, songwriter, and producer.

A Hopeful Return

North Macedonia withdrew from Eurovision in 2023, citing financial challenges. Their most recent participation was in 2022, when Andrea performed Circles in Turin, Italy, narrowly missing the Grand Final by finishing 11th in the semi-final with 76 points.

With MRT’s decision for Eurovision 2026 still pending, Bobi Andonov’s potential return could reignite excitement and pride in North Macedonia’s participation.

We’d love to see Bobi bring his passion, experience, and artistry back to the Eurovision stage, this time as a proud representative of North Macedonia.

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