Molly Sterling: “My song is about taking risks in life and love that end up leaving a trail of consequences behind” (Irish finalist – Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Molly Sterling, finalist of the Irish selection for Eurovision 2015 “Eurosong”. Molly will sing “Playing with Numbers” in the final set on February 27.

ESC+Plus: Hello Molly! First of all congratulations on having been selected to compete at Eurosong 2015.

Thank you! I’m really excited to be involved in the whole Eurosong process. Even before the performance, the process has just been the best experience already!

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

Well, it’s funny, I have quite vivid memories from when I was really little where I would sing along to my dad’s Eagles, Queen and Meatloaf CD’s in the car! So, I would say I’ve always loved the feeling of singing and how each song could make you feel, even as a really young kid. In hindsight, that was probably where I began to discover the world of music and the emotion that acted as a scaffold around it. When I was 12 years old, I entered my first competition with my teensy keyboard and that competition was only local but nevertheless a big deal for me. That’s when I was bitten with the performance bug!! Since then I have done a few more competitions and performances for weddings and birthday parties but nothing on as large a scale as the Eurosong!

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

As a performer, it would be amazing to have the chance to represent Ireland and I’m all for new experiences and learning curves which is what this process is all about for me at the moment. Also, it allows for the opportunity to let people hear the music that myself and Greg have created so, I suppose, the Eurosong is an ideal outlet for me as a musician and songwriter.

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

To be honest, I don’t even want to think about that because I’d just get way too excited!! Goes without saying how much it would mean to me and everyone who has helped with the process.

E+: You will sing “Playing with numbers” in the competition. Can you tell us about the song and the story behind the lyrics? How was the composition procedure?

Initially, I was reluctant to show the song to Greg because there were parts of the melody that I wasn’t happy with and a few other parts that just weren’t sitting well. However, when I played it for him he knew exactly what to add and take away and really brought the song together. As for the lyrics, I strongly believe that the meaning behind them should always be open to interpretation. For me, ‘Playing with Numbers’ is about taking risks in life and love that end up leaving a trail of consequences behind. It’s about reflecting on the gambles that went wrong.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=8Jjokf5Xx4w

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

You’ll just have to wait and see!

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

A good performance is what it all comes down to and I’m confident that friends and family will be just as supportive on the night as they’ve been so far.

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

So much! Invaluable exposure for the rest of my music along with the ideal start to a career.

E+: Do you have any favorite song among the other Eurosong finalists?

I don’t actually. I think all the songs are good contenders! Seems like anyone’s game to me.

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

I have to admit that I’m not a huge Eurovision follower but I do remember the song ‘Euphoria’ which was really an epic track. By Loreen I think. I was humming that one around the house for weeks!

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

Hopefully, this year will be the beginning of more performances and more writing and recording. We are working on an album at the moment so I’m excited for people to finally hear it!

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

I listen to absolutely every type of music and I listen to music depending on my mood. I have always loved Stevie Nicks but there are so many varying artists that I listen to, I just couldn’t choose a style.

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

Just enjoy the upcoming events, I suppose! Have fun!

You can follow Molly Sterling on her Official Facebook Page.