Maria Ólafsdóttir: “My song is powerful, beautiful and perfect for my voice” (Icelandic participant – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Maria Ólafsdóttir, one of the participants of the Icelandic selection for Eurovision 2015 “Söngvakeppnin”. Maria will sing “Lítil skref” in the second semifinal set on February 7.

ESC+Plus: Hello Maria! First of all congratulations on having been selected for Söngvakeppnin 2015!

Thank you!

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

I am 22 years old from Iceland and I have been singing since I was just a baby and I have released few songs but now I am going to focus more on the music part. I have been acting in the theaters here in Iceland for example in Sound of Music, Michael Jackson show, Annie, Lion King and right now I am Ronja the Robber’s daughter. I am also a dancer and have been dancing since I was 5 years old. For the last 5 years or so I have also been working with StopWaitGo.

E+: Why did you decide to take part at “Söngvakeppnin” 2015?

When StopWaitGo contacted me and asked if I wanted to sing this song for Söngvakeppnin, there was no doubt in my mind. I have been working with them for 4 years now and they know me and my voice so well so I just knew this song would be perfect for me. And it was! I fell for it the moment I heard it and there was no turning back after that. I wanted to perform this song and have the chance to show what I got.

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

It would mean the world to me. For the first I love Eurovision, I am such a fan so it would just be a dream coming true.

E+: You will sing the song “Lítil skref” at the Icelandic selection. Can you tell us about the song and the story behind the lyrics? How was the composition procedure?

Yes this song is a power ballad and it is very emotional. It is about a break-up and this girl is singing about that she won’t let this break her down. She will get through this and she will be stronger in the end.

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

Yes I have started preparing my stage performance! I will have two dancers and three backing singers with me.

E+: What are your main strengths to as to get the people support to win “Songvakeppnin” 2015?

This song is so powerful and beautiful and it is perfect for my voice so I can truly show what I’ve got. Hopefully that will be enough.

E+: If you win the Icelandic national selection, would you sing in Icelandic or in English at Eurovision?

I would sing in English, this song was written in English and the lyrics are so beautiful and I want people to understand what I am singing about.

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

I am a new face to people also here in Iceland so this is a huge step for me and my career. Hopefully this will bring me more opportunities in the future. This is what I want to do.

E+: Do you have any favorite song among the other “Söngvakeppnin” participants?

There so many good songs there but StopWaitGo also wrote other song in this competition called Í síðasta skipti and I think that is my favorite.

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

Yes I watch it every year. I am such a Eurovision fan. Right now Euphoria is my favorite song.

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

Hopefully I will release more songs and I am also going for audition in London for acting school.

E+: What is your favourite music style? Your favourite singer?

My favourite style is pop and my favourite singer is probably Whitney Houston and Carrie Underwood.

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

Just enjoy the show and happy Eurovision! 😀

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=DC5FCyuC7tc