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As the Eurovision Song Contest approaches, more artists are being revealed, offering a glimpse of what to expect from the diverse range of talents set to perform.
Since 25 January, it has been confirmed that Laura Thorn will represent Luxembourg at the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in Basel, competing with the song La Poupée Monte Le Son against 36 other artists.
As the competition draws closer, more names are being revealed, showcasing the artists who will grace the grand ESC stage. What can be expected from the other participating countries, and who are these artists? Here's a look at the first few.
Albania with Shokdra Elektronike
Zjerm, meaning fire, is the song by the duo Shokdra Elektronike. They blend traditional sounds with contemporary music, merging the past with the present. The project is led by Kolë Laca and Beatriçe Gjergji, both born in Shkodër, Albania, and raised as immigrants in Italy. Their musical style is described as 'Post Immigrant Pop.'
Belgium with Red Sebastian
Strobe Lights is the song of Belgium’s representative, Red Sebastian, who triumphed against seven other competitors in the national final. Seppe Herreman, the artist's real name, is originally from Ostend and was already in the final of "Belgium’s Got Talent" at the age of 14.
Spain with Melody
Esa Diva is the winning song of Melody, who took first place at the Benidorm Festival. The singer previously attempted to represent Spain in 2009. Melody, a well-known figure in Spain, had her first hit at the age of 10. As part of the Big Five in the ESC, Spain is automatically guaranteed a spot in the final.
Slovenia with Klemen
How much time do we have left? is a heartfelt ballad in which Klemen Slakonja explores his partner's cancer diagnosis. Best known in Slovenia for his work as a presenter and parodist, Klemen shows a different side with this emotional song, which resonated with the public in Slovenia’s pre-selection, securing his place at the ESC.
Montenegro with Nina Žižić
Dobrodošli is the song representing Montenegro this year. Nina Žižić previously appeared at the ESC in 2013. In the national pre-selection this year, she came second, but due to a rule violation by the band that originally won, she now takes their place. The band's song had been released before September, which goes against ESC regulations.
Greece with Klavdia
Asteromata, meaning 'Starry Eyed' in English, is the song that won Greece's national pre-selection. In the ballad, Klavdia addresses themes such as forced migration and the hardships faced by refugees. Drawing inspiration from her grandmother’s story of fleeing her homeland, Klavdia comes from a Pontic Greek minority.