Jasmine Abela: “We really wish everyone draws strength and courage from the song” (Maltese semifinalist – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Jasmine Abela, semifinalist of the Maltese national selection for Eurovision 2016, MESC. The young singer will perform “Alive”, composed by Paul Abela, Michael James Down, Marie Pettersson and Filip Lindfors, in the show set on January 22.

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

My name is Jasmine and I am 16 years old. I am still at school, and I am currently studying sciences. I always loved to sing and I instantly knew that my passion for music was one like no other. I must say that at 16 years of age I have been fortunate enough to participate in many prestigious events.

My career started off on a TV programme where I got to sing in front of an audience for the first time! One of the achievements that I will always remember was taking part in an international festival for the first time and winning the “Grand Prix”. One of my career highlights that I will certainly cherish forever is CHOGM 2015. I performed in the CHOGM opening ceremony where the queen was present. I also participated in various concerts in Malta where I got to sing/perform with some of Malta’s finest artists.

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

The Malta Eurovision Song Contest is a very good platform for Maltese artists as well as an amazing opportunity. The artist has the opportunity to plan what they want to happen on stage during their performance. It is something that you don’t get to do every day and it is an amazing feeling! Since I was 16 and I could take part I instantly took the opportunity to give it a try.

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

I didn’t know what to really expect since it was my first time but I must say that I was really overwhelmed when I go to know that I qualified for the semi-final.

E+: What it would mean for you to represent Malta? Can you tell us about your song?

It would mean a lot, including hard work, determination etc. My song starts off as though it is a ballad but as soon as it reaches to the part where there is the chorus it is pretty upbeat.

E+: What is the story behind the lyrics?

The story behind the lyrics is very sensitive and at the same time very encouraging! One of my lyricists had a brain tumour but with all of her strength and courage she survived! The song is very encouraging and we really wish that everyone draws strength and courage from the song, some way or another.

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

I really believe in my song, and the message that it carries with it is beautiful. One of my strengths could be that the song is powerful with both the lyrics and production.

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

I am preparing for my performance for the “MESC 2016” by rehearsing and brainstorming. As regards to how the staging is going to be…I am going to leave that as a surprise.

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

Yes I do, my favourite Eurovision song is Euphoria.

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

Georgina Abela

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

At the moment I have no other plans for this year apart from Eurovision since I am hundred percent focused on Eurovision.

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

I would like to thank everyone for their constant support. I hope that everyone draws strength and courage from my song some way or another! Thank you xx

E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!

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