So So Gay
As reported by So So Gay earlier this week, preparations for this year’s Eurovision Song Contest are now well and truly under way, with each participating nation now having had their first rehearsal on the immense stage at the Crystal Hall in Baku, Azerbaijan. We were lucky enough to catch up for a chat with 2012′s Albanian representative, Rona Nishliu. Born in Kosovo with a penchant for jazz, Rona is making waves with her emotional song ‘Suus’ and astonishing vocal ability. This is what she had to say:
So So Gay: Hi Rona. How are your preparations in Baku going?
Rona Nishliu: It is a fantastic experience. The days are very intense. Since the all-important first rehearsal and press conference, I’m continuously taking part in different media presentations and meeting with fans of ‘Suus’. This makes me feel very good in Baku though, unfortunately, I haven’t had much time to see the city.
Your song is beautiful. What is it about?
‘Suus’ has apparently affected the most sensitive sentiment of the human spirit and this is pain. When people feel and understand each other’s pain more, they realise that they need to support other more in moments of pain, of sadness and in their weakness. To understand the pain of another means to love him or her more.
What are your favourite songs among the other entries?
I appreciate and respect all participants in the Eurovision Song Contest. There is no doubt that each of them brings their own values to the contest.
Are you a fan of the Eurovision Song Contest in general?
Each edition of Eurosong has brought something new and beautiful. Unique works have consistently attracted my attention.
Will ‘Suus’ feature on a new album?
‘Suus’ will be part of a compilation of the songs with which I began my path in music. The first album will be a conceptual work.
Why do you think so many Eurovision fans have connected so deeply with your song?
I am very happy with this very strong emotional connection numerous fans of Eurovision have with my song. However, only they can explain their affection for the song. Anyway, I think that through my song, as stated in the title ‘Suus’, which means something very personal, they have received and understood not only my story, but they have also found their own personal story. Everyone has their own unique world. Through respecting the right of everyone to be themselves, even if someone does not like it, we will give the world a chance for more understanding, diversity, humanism and love for each other.
Your voice is really powerful. What kind of training did you have?
Thank you for your compliments. Life and everything that surrounds me have trained me in the best possible way. I continue to blindly believe in this training.
Rona Nishliu will perform ‘Suus’ live in the first semi-final of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest on Tuesday 22 May.
http://youtu.be/v9zIP4FA-1Y
