ESC+Plus has talked to Caroline Wennergren, semifinalist of the Swedish selection for Eurovision 2015 “Melodifestivalen”. Caroline will sing “Black Swan” at tomorrow’s semi-final.
ESC+Plus: Hi Caroline! First of all congratulations on having been selected for Melodifestivalen 2015.
Hi Antonio! And thank you very much!
E+: Can you tell us about you, your musical evolution and important achievements?
I was born in Rio de Janeiro and was adopted to Sweden when I was 5 years old. That was my luck! I grow up in a very artistic family – much theatre and music. When I was 14 I saw a TV documentary about Ella Fitzgerald and she and her music immediately captured me. In 2005 I participated in Melodifestivalen and ended as 5th in the final with the song “A Different Kind of Love”. Since then I have worked as a singer. My latest album is “Drop Me Off In Harlem” with songs from the Ella Fitzgerald-era.
E+: Why did you decide to enter “Melodifestivalen” 2015?
I was offered a very good tune!
E+: How did you experience your previous participation in this competition?
It was a fantastic experience – and also the start of my career.
E+: What it would mean for you to represent Sweden in Vienna?
Of Course it would be a very great honour!
E+: Can you tell us about your song “Black Swan” and the story behind the lyrics? How was the composition procedure?
“Black Swan” is about the lack of confidence that everyone feels now and then (or perhaps always) that we don’t dare to show ourselves as we are. But we have to build up the strength within us to be able to use the power of the “black swan” instead of surrender to it.
E+: How are you preparing your stage performance? Can you reveal us anything about it?
I work every day for several hours dancing and singing. And I have the last two months rehearsed my act.
E+: What are your main strengths so as to get the people support to reach Eurovision?
I think that I can show my joy and happiness very clearly. I love singing and performing and I feel I have something important to say to the audience.
E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? Do you have any favorite song in the story of the contest?
Of course I watch Eurovision! And I think that “Waterloo” by ABBA is one of the top tens!
E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?
I will be touring quite a lot, mostly in Sweden with my two bands singing both jazz and pop.
E+: Do you have a favorite music style?
I am a jazz singer with a repertoire from the classic years. But I can travel to other genres as well, like soul and r&b and gospel.
E+: Finally, would you like to send a message for our readers?
Believe in and rely on yourself! And look at everyone you meet as a friend!
You can follow Caroline Wennergren on her Official Website and Official Facebook Page.