Passed: “Driftin’ is a contradictory song with joyful beat and desperate lyrics” (Hungarian candidates – Exclusive Interview)

ESC+Plus has talked to Passed, finalist band of “A Dal” 2015 also participating at this year’s Hungarian national selection for Eurovision.

They will perform “Driftin'” composed by Levente Szabó, Dorottya Nizalowski, Fanni Nizalowski and Bálint Áron Farkas at the second heat of “A Dal” 2016 to take place on Saturday.

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

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

We are a young harp-pop band based in Budapest. We became well-known last year, when we entered A Dal 2015, in which we got into the finals. We were lucky enough to play before such musicians like Bonobo, Matisyahu and Parov Stelar only in the one-year existence of the band.

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

After last year’s A Dal we knew that we wanted to take part in it again, but we weren’t sure until we had the idea of the song called Driftin’. We made a sketch of it, and immediately knew that we wanted to send it in. We really thought and still think it’s a very “eurovisionish” song.

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

We were so excited! We really didn’t know if it would qualify or not, it’s just so unpredictable. We surely were the happiest in the world that day.

E+: What it would mean for you to represent Hungary? 

Our main goal is to increase the good reputation of Hungary. We love this country, Budapest is a magical place and we really want to show the world that great things are happening here!

E+: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?

Driftin’ is a contradictory song with joyful beat and desperate lyrics. It’s about being in love with someone who can’t decide if they wanted to be with you.

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

We are exceptionally young and our mission is to spread the good vibes. We want to show the world that everyone should strive to be happy and productive even if their circumstances are not the best. Keep up the good flow!

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

Yes, but we want to keep the details a secret until the show.

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

We watched Eurovision in the past few years. Our favourite is a recent one. It’s ‘Rhythm Inside’ from last year’s Belgian entry, Loïc Nottet. But we also really like the former Hungarian participants including András Kállay-Saunders and ByeAlex.

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

Definitely Loïc Nottet! He’s an amazing singer and dancer also.

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

Usual stuff. Touring, making videos… Most importantly we want to learn and work more, and enjoy our time together.

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

Stay cool, we love you, and hope to see you soon in your country!

E+: Thanks for your time and good luck!