ISA: “I Will Wait is both cool and powerful, it means a lot to me lyrically” (Swedish semifinalist – Exclusive Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked with ISA, the young singer who is taking part at this year’s Melodifestivalen after being finalist in 2015. She will perform “I Will Wait”, composed by Anton Hård af Segerstad, Joy Deb, Linnea Deb and Nikki Flores, in the second semi-final set on February 13.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sL1reQO8NZc

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

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

I’m 17 years old and I live in Stockholm together with my family. I’m addicted to music and performing and my biggest dream is to become an international artist. Last year, my career started for real with me going straight to the finals in Melodifestivalen. This made me experience the best year of my life.

I got to release songs I’ve been writing on my own and together with songwriters from both Sweden and the USA. Last year, I also toured across the country getting the opportunity to meet all my amazing fans. Last but not least, I got selected once more for Melodifestivalen! I will never forget 2015.

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

If you get one more chance being a part of the most crazy and fun show in Sweden I say you take it. I couldn’t be more excited than I am right now.

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

I wanted to tell the entire world! But that had to wait a few weeks, haha. I hoped I would get a spot in the competition, but I didn’t dare to expect it.

E+: What it would mean for you to represent Sweden? Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?

It would feel massive. “I Will Wait” is both cool, powerful and it means a lot to me lyrically. I’m singing about waiting for real love. No matter how long it will take, I will wait.

E+: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Stockholm?

It’s a beautiful song combined with a unique performance, that I think people will remember. It deserves to take part in a final.

E+: What are you strengths to reach the top in the competition?

My voice, my confidence and power.

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

Yes, for sure! Every morning I practice singing the song over and over. I also watch a lot of performances by Beyoncé and other stars on YouTube to get inspiration.

E+: You took part in Melodifestivalen 2015 with the song “Don’t Stop”. How do you remember it that experience?

It was literally a dream come true. I gave my all to show how much I love music, and people liked it. The competition was the start of the life I always wanted.

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

I’ve been watching the show every year since I was little. My absolute favorite song and performance through all time is Euphoria by Loreen.

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

It would definitely be Guy Sebastian, who represented Australia last year. Who doesn’t want to sing together with a god’s voice?

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

I definitely want to release new music and videos, tour again and also go to the USA to write even more songs. I feel like everything could happen this year;)

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

Here we go again! A new year of this amazing contest. Hope you believe in my performance as much as I do, cause I really want this. Thank you for being supportive!

E+: Thank you for your time and good luck!

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