Author: MÁDI Sándor
Switzerland missed the Grand Final in the previous 2 years. The last time they won the contest was in 1988, when Celine Dion represented the country. They are still waiting for the right person to bring back the Eurovision Song Contest to Switzerland. This year Sebalter won the right to get on the stage under the Swiss flag. We still need to wait some more days to know the results, until this read my interview.
How did your music career start?
I have been playing violin since age 6. I played classical music for many years, then I shifted to rock music (playing both electric bass and guitar) until I discovered the Irish folk music, which I fell in love with.
This year you were selected to represent Switzerland at Eurovision Song Contest 2014 in Copenhagen. What does it mean for you?
On one hand I feel positively overwhelmed and satisfied by a musical achievement I have been longing for long time. On the other hand there is a feeling of responsibility and serious commitment that is present: I am going to represent my country,which is very important.
How was your song created? What’s the message of your song?
Last summer I made a trip in the USA all by myself. This is when „Hunter of Stars“ took shape. Back in Switzerland, I recorded it. The song has basically a main key of interpretation: There is always a clash between confidence and non-confidence in myself when it comes to flirt and love.
Do you follow Eurovision Song Contest? If yes, since when?
My interest for ESC grew in the past years. I personally appreciate the glamour and the good vibe the Eurovision Song Contest transmits. Above all, it is a show where a songwriter like me has the possibility to show his work. It is a very important stage.
Who is your favourite Swiss representative from previous years and why?
I really liked Peter, Sue & Mark with „Io senza te”. Though I was not born yet (ESC 1981) I remember my parents listening to that song when I was a child.
Who are your favourite singers? (In the world, not only Eurovision singers.)
I like folk rock singers such as Cat Stevens, Bob Dylan, Donovan, Bruce Springsteen. But also pop folk singers like Simon and Garfunkel or James Blunt. But actually, I consider myself to be quite curious about music, and therefore I am interested in listening to all different kind of music.
This year there will be 37 countries in the contest. Do you have your favourites?
I did listen to many entries. There are definitely some very talented artists at the ESC 2014. For instance I love the songs by Malta and Norway. „Silent Storm“, the Norwegian entry by Carl Espen, is really sad and emotional. I am fond of that kind of music. In contrast, the Maltese entry „Coming Home“ is a very energetic song that makes you feel good. And I must say that also the Hungarian entry „Running“ is a very strong song!
What are your expectations, your main aims at Eurovision?
For me it`s important to give a good stage performance and to excite the audience. My concrete goal is to reach the final for my country. From a more personal perspective, I will try to promote my music, hoping that European people will like it.
What are your plans after Eurovision? Will you relax?
Well, I am currently recording my first solo album. And in summer, I want to do an official tour. So I won`t have that much time for relaxing, actually.
What would you like to send to the Hungarian readers and fans of Sebalter?
Thank you very much for supporting me! I am happy to be part of the ESC this year!
Thanks Sebalter for this interview and special thanks to Simone Bächler.
We wish all the best for you in Copenhagen!
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