ESC+Plus has talked to Clemso, semifinalist of the Finnish national selection for Eurovision, “UMK 2016”. The singer will perform “Thief” in the first semifinal set on February 6.
ESC+Plus: Hello! First of all, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on having been selected to take part in the Finnish national selection for Eurovision 2016!
E+: Can you tell us about you, your musical career and important achievements?
My names are Clement Shola Ogundipe which forms ‘ClemSO’ , born and bred in Nigeria, had a Post Graduate Diploma and Bachelor of Engineering in industrial management. I started my music career in a boy’s school band and have represented my high school in Coca-Cola music competition in Lagos, Nigeria. Since then, I have been working to become a better artist concentrating on recording good music.
E+: What impelled you to take part in “UMK 2016”?
The desire to make the world hear my own kind of sounds and to boost my music career.
E+: How did you feel when you knew you had qualified for the semi-finals? Did you expect it?
I was really glad to have made it to such a reputable music contest. It was something I expected due to the uniqueness of my sound.
E+: What it would mean for you to represent Finland?
It would be one of the biggest lifetime achievements for me and my career.
E+: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?
The song ‘Thief’ is a fusion of Afrobeat and Modern pop, which is rich in the imagery of love. The lyrics showcase a charming lady in an ironic way as a heart robber ‘Thief’ and the victim ‘Mr. Lover’ expresses his heart desires telling how much he wants to be her man and have her for himself.
E+: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Stockholm? What are you strengths to reach the top in the competition?
I think my song should be selected because of its uniqueness and artistic richness. My strengths are that I am an energetic entertainer who can relate with my audience easily and more importantly in my race, being an African; my biggest message is multiculturalism and peace across the world. I am just the right voice from Finland and Europe now and the most appropriate image that can prove this to the world, through this renowned music platform representing Finland at this time.
E+: If you win the contest, would you change the language of your song?
The song contains three different languages: West-African pidgin-english, joruba and english. It will remain definitely the way it is.
E+: Have you started to prepare your stage performance for “UMK 2016”?
Yes, I am getting ready to entertain and bring my audience to their feet.
E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? What are your favorite songs in the history of the competition?
Yes, I have watched it in the past few years. My favorites are Emmelie De Forest (Only Teardrops) and Måns Zelmerlöw (Heroes).
E+: If you could choose a Eurovision former participant to sing along with, who would it be?
Emmelie De Forest.
E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?
I will be recording more songs and try to put one or two singles out and keep developing my brand.
E+: Finally, can you send a message for our readers and Eurovision fans?
A big shout out to all Eurovision fans: I want you wait for me as I bring the magic to the stage and wow you all. Please support your boy, peace!!!
E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!