For this week's Eurovision of the Week we spoke to Delfina, aka @stoleneyelids on Twitter, who comes to us from North Carolina in the United States of America. She shares her love for a particular 2016 Eurovision entry and her views on the impending American Song Contest.
Thank you for being our Aussievision fan of the week! Tell us a little about yourself:
Delfina – North Carolina, USA. I work at a law firm but have a degree in history and political science. I’ve never been to Europe or Australia yet but hope to travel once it is appropriate.
You will LOVE Australia, we cannot wait for you to visit our country ~ Kyriakos
When did you first get into Eurovision?
I randomly discovered Blue’s music video for “I Can” on YouTube in spring 2011. I was pretty much addicted from the start. My winner at the time was Belarus.
Blue’s ‘I Can’ is an awesome, but yes ‘I Love Belarus’ is epic! Who doesn’t love Belarus! ~ Kyriakos
What is your favourite Eurovision performance and why?
Jamala – “1944”
I can never watch the performance or listen to the song without tearing up or sobbing. Her vocals are so gut-wrenching. The honesty of her pain is so raw. Few can doubt the power of the LED in the performance. Europe crowned her their victor despite the language barrier of Crimean Tartar. It’s that powerful.
Jamala did give us an epic and emotive performance in 2016, looking back it’s no surprise she won. ~ Kyriakos
Which is your favourite Eurovision year and why?
It’s hard to choose, but 2016 is my favorite. My favorite song won. I treasure so many of the entries from that year. The hosts were hilarious and animated the script penned by Edward af Sillén, a Eurovision fan as well. The Swedish love for Eurovision is evident in its excellent production. Eurovision 2016 features my favorite interval act, The Grey People, about the refuge crisis. Stockholm 2016 really had it all.
My favourite too, and Måns you forgot Måns haha, I had to mention him ~ Kyriakos
Which artist/s from your country would you love to see on the Eurovision stage? Which song/s best showcases that artist?
In honor of my dear friend Febry, I’d choose All Time Low to represent the UK. The pop punk band was formed in the US, but the lead singer is originally from England. I’d say the classic “Dear Maria, Count Me in.”
Out of my stan countries, I’d love for Kazka to represent Ukraine. “Плакала” is excellent.
Which national final do you look forward to the most?
Melodifestivalen for sure. I love Sanremo and Vidbir as well, but Melfest is the notable standout.
What makes it special?
Melfest is consistently entertaining with excellent production and wonderful songs. Every year is a treat.
If you could change one thing about any national final or Eurovision what would it be?
I would change the Big 5’s automatic qualification. I understand the reasoning behind it, but it would be more fun and fair. Perhaps it would encourage the Big 5 countries as well.
I totally agree with you there ~ Kyriakos
What is your opinion on returning artists? Is there one you would like to see again?
I welcome returning artists! I’d love for Sirusho to return.
Yes ‘Qélé, qélé’ was epic, would be great for Sirusho to return!! ~ Kyriakos
If you could pick only three performances to encourage new people to watch Eurovision, what would they be:
“Rhythm Inside” – Belgium 2015
“Bra vibrationer” – Sweden 1985
“Soldi” – Italy 2019
What are your thoughts on the American Song Contest based on what we know so far? Are you excited?
I’m really excited! However, I understand the raised eyebrows over the name American Song Contest considering the term “America” belongs to two continents, not just the US. We’re a nation divided as made even more evident on January 6, 2021. Music has that special healing power. I’d love to see people at home supporting their favorite song a la Eurovision we know and love. I hope the values of the Eurovision brand gain traction here. If Christer Björkman needs someone, I’m here to help!
Are you reading this Christer Björkman? Please contact Delfina pronto ~ Kyriakos
Which Eurovision song:
Is the best winner?
“1944”
Has the best live vocal?
“1944”
The best from the last 10 years?
“1944”
Was robbed?
“Verona”
I know Dale would absolutely agree!! ~ Kyriakos
Is your guilty pleasure?
“Aven Romale”
Is your favourite National Final song (that didn't make it to Eurovision)?
“Deák” by Spoon 21 from A Dal 2017
And finally which Australian entry is your favourite…
The debut – “Tonight Again.” It’s still so much fun!
Are there any other titbits or comments you’d like to make?
Thank you so much for asking me! I’m so happy to have Australia in the contest.
No Thank you Delfina! We hope Christer Björkman gives you a call! ~ Kyriakos
Comments