Esctoday.com caught up with Ukrainian representative Ani Lorak, and spoke about her past and future Eurovision Song Contest participations. You can read the interview below:
You have come so close to representing your country in the Eurovision Song Contest before, how does it feel to actually be doing it at last?
In 2005, I took part in the Ukrainian National Selection. However, three days before the contest, another band was nominated to participate over the political considerations. Nevertheless, time put everythingin place. Each year I was getting invitations, but I declined them. Last year the First National Channel offered me a chance to participate, and I asked for a week to make up my mind and give an answer. I spent time thinking and analysing the pros and cons. At the end I tosseda coin three times, and each time the answer was “yes”. So I said to myself that this is the fate decree. In this life, we are messengers and God guides us. My answer was “yes” and I feel confident about it. I believe that the decision was made for me by God and that’s why I am going to Eurovision. I know that this was meant to be and now I will do my best to represent my country.
What does it mean to you to represent Ukraine at Eurovision?
It’s my fate. My friends, my audience kept on getting back to me with the question whether I will take part in the contest or not. I guess this is the step I have to take. And I want to make it remarkable. Not only am I going to participate in the great music contest but also bring a message. As a UN Goodwill Ambassador on HIV AIDS in Ukraine in 2004, I consider Eurovision to be a strong platform to address people and bring their attention to the problem that exists not only in Ukraine but worldwide. I want to share my own experience, my word on this subject, tell people that AIDS is not transmitted through friendship. That’s why I find my participation this year important and worthwhile.
NTU decided to choose you to represent the country at Eurovision, they must have a lot of faith in you, do you think you could win in Belgrade?
I think every participant who comes to Eurovision wants to win. However, for me music has never been like sports. It’s not a competition. It’s magic. I have been singing since I was four years old. I live to sing and sing to live. During Eurovision 2008 I want to bring joy and happiness to people. I want the audience to enjoy the contest, feel the music and have fun. The best will win.
Do you have a promotional tour planned? If so, where will you travel to?
Currently my team and I are working hard to get ready for the contest. I visited the National Selection in Russia which I really enjoyed. Now I am in the Baltic countries as a special guest on a concert tour of the famous Russian singer Phillip Kirkorov who is the composer of the music to my song “Shady Lady”. During my trips I meet new people and what’s even more important to me I get to feel the audience which is different from Ukrainians. It’s very important for me to understand how things are going to be in Belgrade. And that’s why I think it’s important for the artist to visit several places to get the idea of what it’s going to be.
How do you feel about the 2 Semi Final idea? Do you think it will be a positive thing?
As there are more and more countries who join this grand music contest, I think it’s a good idea. More countries become a part of the big Eurovision family and the new rules are going to help everyone get the necessary attention.
Have you heard any of the other 2008 Eurovision songs? If so what do you think of them?
I didn’t really listen to other participants because of the lack of time that I spent in preparations But I am sure that Eurovision 2008 is going to be a lot of fun and a big holiday for all.
Out of the 5 songs in your National Selection, did you have a favourite?
Out of the five songs I liked “Shady Lady” and “A Dream For Brighter Day”. Both are strong songs but the audience made their choice and I respect it. So we are keeping our fingers crossed.
Is there a story behind Shady Lady? How did you get the song and what can you tell us about the song writers?
Shady Lady is a woman who always changes the history of the humankind. She is seductive, magic. A real femme fatale. She drives men crazy. At the same time she cares about humanity. Evita Peron, Lady D, Marilyn Monroe. These are only few of examples of such women. I like my song and I like the image.
Do you have anything special planned for your performance in Eurovision?
We are currently working on our stage performance. Sure, it’s going to be something unique. But let me keep a bit of the intrigue for now J
What would it mean to you, to win Eurovision?
For me the victory would mean that the audience felt my sincerity and desire to make them enjoy the three minutes of my song. I know that if they feel me, feel my heart and my message, they will vote for me. But again, for me music is not a competition. It’s the reason why I live.
Do you have a message for the esctoday.com readers?
Yes, of course. I want them to come to the show and really enjoy it. Enjoy the energy, sincere appeal and just have fun. I am sure the contest will be fantastic. I am looking forward to meeting you soon
