ESC+Plus has talked to Alloise, semifinalist of this year’s Ukrainian national selection for Eurovision. Alloise will perform “Crown” in the second semifinal to take place tomorrow.
ESC+Plus: Hello! First of all, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on having been selected to take part in the Ukrainian national selection for Eurovision 2016!
Can you tell us about you, your musical career and important achievements?
Hello! Thank you so much! I’m so excited to be a part of the Eurovision contest this year. I started as a dj and a house vocalist. Singing in clubs shaped me into a dedicated performer. Several years ago, I met good guys and we formed a band. Now the band is called ALLOISE. We like to mix different genres, going through pop, rock, soul, jazz etc. But generally, I consider myself a pop singer.
E+: What impelled you to take part in the Ukrainian national selection 2016?
This is my first time in a contest ever! I like to take risks and to accept challenges. It moves and motivates me.
E+: How did you feel when you knew you had qualified for the semi-final? Did you expect it?
I was very pleased to hear those news! To be honest, I didn’t expect such turn of events, actually. It’s not that I’m not self-confident, it’s just that I love to get surprised with a sudden success. Feels like magic!
E+: What it would mean for you to represent Ukraine?
I want the whole world to see Ukraine as a strong, beautiful country! So I would do my best to represent the beauty, talent, wisdom and self- devotion of a ukrainian woman!
E+: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?
I wrote ‘Crown’ when I was dealing with a girl who tried to copy me, tried to move, sing and be like me. To me, it was very funny. Because I realize, that our strength is unity and ability to be ourselves, copying something or someone seems futile to me. So I wanted to tell this story through this song. It says – just be yourself. Don’t fight for the crown they’re offering you. Find your own crown, be a Queen in your own way. You are free to shine your light as you wish!
E+: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Stockholm? What are you strengths to reach the top in the competition?
‘Crown’ is competitive itself, because of its lyrics, music, message in general. My songs are like children to me. As a good ‘mother’, I’d like them to travel the world and achieve nice goals, bringing joy and love to people.
E+: How are you preparing your stage performance for the semi-final?
I’m rehearsing a lot, trying to keep my eyes, ears and heart open to new experiences.
E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? What are your favorite songs in the history of the competition?
Actually, I don’t have a favorite one. There are a lot of good ones.
E+: If you could choose a Eurovision former participant to sing along with, who would it be?
I would like to sing with ABBA! They are the idols for millions of people.
E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?
We’ve just finished the album we’ve been working on for the past 2 years. The album is called ‘Episodes’, and its release is scheduled for March 8. I believe it’s been recorded for the whole world to enjoy it!
E+: Finally, can you send a message for our readers and Eurovision fans?
Always stay true to yourself! Your utility is your power!
E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!