Jenny Langlo: “My performance will definitely be edgy and something I have been wanting to do for a long time” (Norwegian finalist – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Jenny Langlo, finalist of the Norwegian selection for Eurovision 2015 “MGP”. Jenny will sing “Next To You” in the final to take place tomorrow.

ESC+Plus: Hello Jenny! First of all congratulations on having been selected to compete at Melodi Grand Prix 2015.

Thank you so much!

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

I am a singer and songwriter from a small village on the west coast of Norway who now lives in Oslo and do music. I have always enjoyed doing music, and performed a lot with my guitar and own songs in my younger years. I participated in the Idol competition in Norway in 2011 and came out 1st place – something that changed my life completely. After the competition I have gradually started doing more electronic music.

 

 

E+: Why did you decide to take part in MGP 2015?

There were a lot of reasons, but first of all it is a unique possibility to show your music to a really big audience. The timing for me was also great, since I haven’t released music for a while.

E+: What it would mean for you to represent Norway in Vienna?

It would definitely be a dream come true. I am so motivated to do my very best to get there. It would be a once in a lifetime experience.

E+: Your song is called “Next To You”. Can you tell us about the song and the story behind the lyrics? How was the composition procedure? 

I actually came in contact with the great producers in Machopsycho planning to do a different song of theirs in the contest. While in the studio in Gothenburg we had some hours left before I headed home to Oslo, and we decided to write a new song. It was done in a couple of hours, just for fun, but it turned out the jury of MGP 2015 liked it even better. The lyrics are inspired by my own experiences, as most of my lyrics are. I don’t like to give away everything about the lyrics, but it is a song about when you lose control of your emotions, and how many of us often do our best to keep our true feelings hidden.

E+: Have you started to prepare your stage performance? Can you reveal us anything about it?

I have, and I am really really excited! I will not reveal too much about it, but lets say it will definitely be edgy and something I have been wanting to do for a long time.

E+: What are your main strengths so as to get the needed support to win the contest?

I am really happy about the song myself, and think both the lyrics and the melody are something that different types of people could enjoy. I also hope that my stage performance will be something that is maybe not too common in MGP.

E+: If you won MGP 2015, would you sing in English or in Norwegian at Eurovision? 

Since I always sing in English, I would definitely sing in English at Eurovision. To me it is a very beautiful language, and it gives you the opportunity to communicate with so many people across the world.

E+: What can this competition contribute to your musical career?

Since it has been really quiet around me the last couple of years it could definitely give my career a bit of a boost. It would be an amazing way to start my comeback.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_rAa67hL3vU

 

E+: Do you usually watch Eurovision? Do you have any favorite song in the history of the contest?

I watch it from time to time. But I must say that I am a huge fan of last year’s winner Conchita Wurst’s “Rise like a Phoenix”. A truly powerful performance! I would also like to mention a performance in 2010 by Alyosha with the song “Sweet People”. An incredible song and performance I will never forget.

E+: What is your favourite music style? Do you have any favourite singer?

I listen to mostly indie pop/rock, and the last year if been enjoying a lot of R&B and house music. I am a big fan of songwriters and singers like Jeff Buckley, Thom Yorke and Radiohead, and also newer artists like Lana Del Rey. More surprisingly I am also a huge fan of Marilyn Manson and his music!

E+: Finally, would you like to send a message for our readers?

I am really hoping to see you all in Vienna!

You can follow Jenny Langlo on her Official Facebook Page.