Ireland is the record holder of the Eurovision Song Contest, winning the Contest 7 times. But the years starting with 2000 did not bring much luck to Ireland. Maybe because of this, this year a turkey puppet will represent Ireland at Eurovision. Dustin the turkey spoke to TRT, the Turkish broadcaster…
– First of all, would you please inform us about your music career?
Dustin: I’ve released six albums, had 12 number one singles and dueted with Chris De Burgh, Boyzone, Bob Geldof and Joe Dolan. I see my music as a message of hope for the world – once i started releasing records in Ireland peace arrived so hopefully now that i’m on an international stage my music can end international conflicts – or at least get me a few free overseas holidays.
– Before being competitor against Turkey, what was our country meaning to you? Have u ever been to Turkey? Can u remember any Turkish Eurovision song which u like?
Dustin: I’ve never been to Turkey but I am a turkey and I love Turkish Delight so I feel a huge kinship with the people of what I believe to be a great and proud nation – Johnny Logan told me it’s his fav place in all of Europe – and he should know.
– What are your favourite Irish Eurovision songs?
Dustin: “What’s Another Year?” by Johnny Logan – pure class!
– How much do you rely on your song?
Dustin: I rely on it a lot – I need the money.
– Allright then, do you believe that a success in Eurovisio will contribute to your career?
Dustin: I do believe that a success in Eurovision will contribute to my career, and hopefully my bank account. I’m a superstar in Ireland where I’m bigger then Bono (well, taller anyway) and I think Eurovision can bring me to similar heights internationally.
– How did you decide to participate in this contest?
Dustin: I believed it was up to an artist of my stature to step up to the plate and win the thing again for this once great Eurovision nation, that and the money.
– Can you give us brief information about the arrival process of this song?
Dustin: Can’t really remember, I know it took ten minutes though – including the coffee break of six minutes.
– How do you findEurovision in terms of format?
Dustin: I love it!
– Are there any specialities that you like or criticise?
Dustin: No, I love it all – it’s perfect.
– Do you have any favorite song in eurovision history?
Dustin: “What’s Another Year?”
– What are your favourites inEurovision 2008?
Dustin: Just mine and yours.
– Is the song going to be rearrengedfor theEurovision stage? Do you have any concept that you want to form? Can you give us a hint?
Dustin: Yes but the plans are top secret, they are locked up in a safe in my bank – think Riverdance meets 2 Unlimited and you’ll be in the right zone.
– Is it advantage or disadvantage to be a Turkey on stage?
Dustin: It’s an honour, to be the first animal (after Katriona) on the Eurovision stage is a huge honour not only for me but also for Ireland.
– Finally, thanks a lot for this interview. Have u got any messages to Turkish Eurovision lovers?
Dustin: Just that I love them too and really want the Turkish to get behind me, just think about it if I win the headline will be “Turkey Wins Eurovision!!!” yet you won’t have the hassle of having to stage the thing, win win!!! I’m gonna tell everyone in Ireland to vote for Turkey, because if you lot win the headline works for me in reverse. Viva Ireland! Viva Turkey! Viva Eurovision!!!
Interview by: Hakan Yalçınkaya
