Cristal Snow: “Love is Blind is a biographical and empowerment song” (Finnish semifinalist – Exclusive Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Cristal Snow, semifinalist of this year’s Finnish national selection for Eurovision, “UMK 2016”. Cristal Snow will perform “Love Is Blind” in the second semi-final set on February 13.

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!

Can you tell us about you, your musical career and important achievements?

In 2007 I signed a record deal with Helsinki Music Group, a sub-label of Warner Music Group: My debut album ‘The Prophecy’ went straight to the top ten in March, 2008. I spent two years touring really heavily being one of the most touring acts of that time. I took part of the Finnish selection for Eurovision 2008 and became third. Since then I released another album ‘God you Made Me Wicked’. I have made 11 music videos that I really proud of. I feel the visual aspect to be really important in music. IN 2012 I left my label to make music on my own, and since then I have been making music and kinda trying to find out who I am as an artist.

E+: What impelled you to take part in “UMK 2016”?

I am a huge fan of UMK and the Eurovision. Its one of my biggest dreams to represent Finland. I have told my parents, even as a child, that one day they will see me doing that.

E+: How did you feel when you knew you had qualified for the semi-finals? Did you expect it?

You never know how things turn out. I knew that I had a great song, so I was just hoping for the best. Naturally I was thrilled that I made it.

E+: What it would mean for you to represent Finland?

It would mean the world to me. And I am hoping that all goes as it has been planned, the show, the song… That it all comes together. There are many amazing acts this year, so it is really up to the people and the jury, what they see being the perfect fit to represent Finland.

E+: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?

It’s a biographical song. I had a really, really difficult relationship; it was good it was bad, it was twisted, it was great, it was awful and ultimately the pressure to be together was too much for him… I didn’t wanna write a sad love song, so we kinds twisted that around, and made the story have a happy ending, an empowerment song.

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 the song is really strong. The story is relatable. We’ve all had that love, that it’s all wrong in the right kinds of way…

E+: Have you started to prepare your stage performance for “UMK 2016”?

Yes, because it is in one week, so yeah, all we do is rehearse.

E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? What are your favorite songs in the history of the competition?

Yes, I love it. Like I said, I absolutely adore it and I am a big fan. I was a kid when acts like Carola, Herrey’s and Sandra Kim were huge. Those are my favourite memories. Watching them when I was a really small kid. Staying up late and giving points to the countries.

E+: If you could choose a Eurovision former participant to sing with, who would it be?

Loreen. She is amazing

E+: Besides Eurovision, what are your plans for this year?

I have new television show starting here in Fox Finland in April, so I am shooting episodes for that right after UMK is over. That is gonna take month and release more music, of course.

E+: Finally, can you send a message for our readers and Eurovision fans?

I hope you enjoy my song Love Is Blind, and I wish you the best Eurovision year in 2016!

E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!