Dario Mifsud: “I can’t wait to perform my song on that stage and experience the amazing vibe” (Maltese semifinalist – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Dario Mifsud, semifinalist of the Maltese national selection for Eurovision 2016. After being selected to compete in the live shows, the singer will sing “I Love You” composed by Henric Pierroff and Sandra Nordstrom.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mCee-ZGaL9c

ESC+Plus: Hello! First of all, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on having been selected to take part in the Maltese national selection for Eurovision 2016!

E+: What impelled you to take part in “Malta Eurovision Song Contest 2016”?

After the experience of 2009 I kind of liked the idea of being a part of the contest again. Furthermore apart from Eurovision being a good stepping stone for a local artist representing my home country on that European platform has always been my dream. What can I say, I’m a step closer to fulfilling my dream!

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

I am over the Moon. I can’t wait to perform my song on that stage and experience the amazing vibe at MCC which is a venue packed with history. Back in 2009 my experience with Classic Rebels with the song “Tonight At The Opera” was unforgettable and I’m sure this year will be the same.

This year I’m performing as a solo artist and even though it is much more challenging I’m even more excited. Even though my entry ‘I love you’ gives me a good feeling I was not expecting it at all as I know the tough competition and the highly talented singers that compete in the Malta Eurovision; it all came as a very big surprise!

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

Having half of my team based in Sweden I would feel very proud to perform “I Love You” in Stockholm. But more than that I would be living my dream of representing Malta in the Eurovision.

Even simply thinking about it fills me with plenty of excitement and motivation to work even harder to achieve my dream.

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

The lyrics of “I love you” were written by the amazing Sandra Nordstrom and from the very beginning her work was always an inspiration to myself. “I love you” is a romantic story that not only applies to couples that care for each other but also the rest of society. If we manage to live those three powerful words we can go a long mile in a divided society. Bringing on stage such a positive message fills me with great joy and I literally can’t wait to share it.

E+: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Stockholm? What are your strengths to reach the top in the competition?

The song has a feel good factor with a positive message and I’m sure that what we have in store in terms of performance will be very appealing to the viewers. Myself and my team are working continuously to make this happen as we believe in this project. Let’s hope that the viewers gives us their trust with their vote to wave the Maltese flag in Stockholm.

E+: How are you preparing your performance for “MESC 2016”? Can you reveal us anything about the staging?

We are all busy brainstorming and sketching ideas and Woodhouse productions are currently taking care of the technical aspects of the performance. Thomas Sassersson ensures we get exposure through sealing interviews around the continent. Henric Pierroff the producer is 100% focused on delivering great sound and quality to the song. Sandra since she is experienced in show business she is responsible for the scenery and staging with her team. Locally Kinetic Dance Company (Daphne Gatt & Clayton Mifsud) are getting busy with choreography and I’m constantly impressed with their pure talent and ideas. Additionally Gillian Attard is my vocal coach who has been very successful in the Eurovision lately. She was responsible for the birth of Gaia, Federica and we all remember last year’s Malta’s winner, Amber. Also my stylists Charles & Ron who are international renowned stylists and designers.

I cannot say much on the staging as I would like to surprise all the viewers. But I can promise that viewers will be entertained and they are in for a great show.

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

In Malta, Eurovision is very much part of our culture. On a Eurovision night for both the local selection and the big Eurovision final, families gather and stay inside tuning in to follow the show. There would be something missing if we do not follow Eurovision, and it’s our dream to host the contest someday.

My Maltese all time favourite would be “More Than Love” by Chris and Moira. Their simplicity in performance and their raw talent used to make me fall in love with them every time. Another favourite is ‘Fly on the Wings of Love’ by the Olsen Brothers. Every time I listen to that track it brings me back to when I fell in love with the Eurovision.

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

I would have to choose Margaret Berger who represented Norway with ‘I Feed You My Love’. Her vocal talent and performance was something that is still stuck in my head!

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

I’m a vocal coach so my students and passion for teaching come 2nd after my singing career. Also I just got a part in the Musical Jesus Christ Superstar which will be in March. Besides that together with WoodHouse Prod my producers and my manager Thomas are working on other releases.

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

Hello to all the fans at ESC+plus.com! I hope you loved my Eurovision entry ‘I love you’. Comment and share your views on my Facebook page. Hope to see you all very soon!

E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!