Eurovision Song Contest: Interview with top favourite, Alessandra

Alessandra, your ESC song “Queen of Kings” is about female empowerment. What does it mean to you
too much. Because on the one hand you can hear it and let yourself go, on the other hand it has a deep meaning. I sing about a queen who is not perfect but totally comfortable. Thanks to my song, people should find their strength, self-confidence and security again.

Do you want to be a role model?
I am who I am. If people like it, I would love to be a role model, but I don’t aspire to be one.

Were there situations when you also felt like a queen among men?
Of course, but not only among men. I am open to any kind of love. I don’t believe in labels because for me love has no gender. Where I come from, people live very conservative stereotypes and are closed off to those who think differently. I haven’t been able to live on this side freely for a long time. I am so glad this has changed.

You grew up in Italy but you compete for Norway. Why?
I am half Norwegian and half Italian. In Norway I was asked if I wanted to take part in a contest. But both countries are very important to me and my home. I love Marco Mengoni’s song. But I must admit I liked him a lot before that.

You are in your first semi-final with our Swiss candidate Remo Fourier, what do you think of him?
he reminds me of something To Imagine Dragons, which is a huge compliment to me because I’m a huge fan. Remo and I have become friends and have been producing content for Tiktok. It’s incredibly cute.

Your song has always been considered the big favorite of ESC 2023. But in the meantime, it has fallen out of favor. What happened?
My nickname came very early. Meanwhile, people can still Listen to other ESC songs, who also deserves to be at the top. I’m honored that my song is still doing so well.

Bookmakers are currently predicting the third place in the first round. Do you have a strategy to move up?
No, I work out, stay true to myself and do the best I can. To keep my voice healthy, I drink a lot of water – very simple.

This looks very confident. Are there still moments of uncertainty?
Rarely, but yes, I also have bad days when I feel sad and insecure. With that said, I have a lot of self-confidence. I know this song was a real hit. I like it very much and so do many others. I know I’m bringing something completely new to ESC.

What can people expect from your performance?
It’s going to be big, with lots of lights and cool dancers. It will also be modern, but at the same time inspired by Queen Elizabeth I – a trip to the past. I am very proud of that, let yourself be surprised.

Who accompanies you to Liverpool?
My parents, my brother, some friends, and noni are flying in for the show from Italy.

What’s next for ESC?
There are a lot of new songs coming. A new song has already been completed, which will be released after ESC. But I won’t tell you what it’s about.