Encyclopedia

Yuval Raphael

About Quick Facts NameYuval Raphael Born5 November 2000 Nationality🇮🇱 Israeli National SelectionHaKokhav Haba 2025 In Eurovision2025 Basel SongTBA (2025) Biography Yuval Raphael (born November 5, 2000) is an Israeli singer, performer, and a symbol of resilience. Best known as the winner of the 11th season of HaKochav Haba (“The Next Star”), Yuval is set to represent Israel at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland. Born and raised in Ra’anana, Israel, Yuval Raphael grew up in a creative and ambitious household. She is the daughter of Liat and Tzvika Raphael and the niece of businesswoman Ronit Raphael. At the age of six, her family relocated to Switzerland, where they lived for three years before returning to Ra’anana. During her school years, Yuval pursued theater and Arabic studies, reflecting her diverse interests and dedication to learning. After completing high school, Yuval served in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) as a checkpoint combat soldier in the Jerusalem area, showcasing both her strength and commitment to her country. On October 7, 2023, Yuval Raphael survived the tragic massacre at the Nova Festival. Amid the chaos, she hid in a protected shelter near Kibbutz Be’eri, lying beneath the bodies of victims and pretending to be dead for hours. Despite sustaining shrapnel injuries, she displayed incredible bravery and resilience. Her testimony of the massacre, shared during a speech before the United Nations Human Rights Committee, brought international attention to her harrowing experience. Yuval also reported feeling hostility at the UN headquarters while wearing a yellow awareness ribbon, further highlighting the challenges she faced. Yuval’s musical journey reached new heights in November 2024 when she auditioned for HaKochav Haba Le’Eurovizion 2025 (“The Next Star for Eurovision 2025”). Her performance of Demi Lovato’s “Anyone” earned her an impressive 98% score, advancing her to the next stage. Throughout the competition, Yuval delivered powerful renditions of songs such as “Tzipor Midbar” (“Desert Bird”) and “Mon amour”, captivating both judges and audiences. In the semi-finals, she secured her place in the grand finale with a stunning performance of Demi Lovato’s “Warrior”. The grand finale aired on January 22, 2025, where Yuval performed ABBA’s iconic “Dancing Queen” and Sam Smith’s emotional ballad “Writing’s on the Wall”. Her exceptional talent and stage presence earned her first place, making her Israel’s representative for Eurovision 2025. Entries TBA Country🇮🇱 Israel Year2025 LanguageTBA LyricsTBA MusicTBA Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/NSIolFvLwXQ?si=mky15m1SRcKCDnSz

Vlad Miriță

About Quick Facts NameVlad Miriță Born02 August 1981 Nationality🇷🇴 Romania National SelectionSelecția Națională 2008 In Eurovision2008 Belgrade SongPe-o margine de lume (& Nico) Biography Vlad Miriță, born on August 2, 1981, in Târgoviște, Romania, is a renowned Romanian pop and opera singer. He began formal music training at 16, studying canto at the “Octav Enigărescu” School of Arts in his hometown. Early in his career, he performed with the Armonia Valahă Choir, participating in various national and international events. In 2008, Miriță gained international recognition by representing Romania at the Eurovision Song Contest in Belgrade, Serbia. He performed the duet “Pe-o margine de lume” with fellow Romanian singer Nico, achieving 20th place in the competition. Beyond his musical endeavors, Miriță has diversified his career. In 2015, he was chosen by Walt Disney Pictures to provide the Romanian voice for the character Hugo in an animated film adaptation of “The Hunchback of Notre-Dame.” In recent years, Miriță has embraced a more personal role as a family man. He married Maria Natură in 2016, and the couple celebrated their seventh wedding anniversary in 2023 with a special trip to Bulgaria. They have a son named Iustin, born in 2018, who, at the age of four, appeared in the music video for Miriță’s Christmas song “E Frumos de Crăciun,” released in December 2022. Additionally, Miriță has ventured into agriculture, managing a farm in Târgoviște where he raises animals such as pigs and turkeys. This endeavor reflects his appreciation for nature and a desire to provide high-quality, eco-friendly products. Entries Pe-o margine de lume (& Nico) Country🇷🇴 Romania Year2008 LanguageRomanian LyricsAndreea AndreiAdina Şuteu MusicAndrei Tudor BackingsAndrei Tudor (piano) Results Semi Points: 94Position: 7Running order: 17 Results Finals Points: 45Position: 20Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/o_mvrGKbbqU?si=fe7MBSXrVJt1j8A3

Shkodra Elektronike

About Quick Facts MembersKolë LacaBeatriçe Gjergji Founded2019 Nationality🇦🇱 Albania National SelectionFestivali i Këngës 2025 In Eurovision2025 Basel SongZjerm (2025) Biography Shkodra Elektronike is an Albanian duo. The music project was founded in 2019 by Albanian immigrants Kolë Laca and Beatriçe Gjergji, who grew up in Italy, away from their native city of Shkodër. That is a city in the northern part of Albania. The duo defines their genre as “Post Immigrant Pop,” focusing on reinterpreting traditional songs from Shkodër with a contemporary electronic approach. Their debut original song, “Ku e gjeta vedin,” released in 2020, won the Special Prize at the annual Shkodra Festival “Luleborë.” This was followed by tracks like “Synin si qershia” and “Turtulleshë,” the latter released under the Alt Orient label in January 2022. They also composed “E jemja nuse,” performed by Rezarta Smaja, which secured third prize at the 60th edition of “Festivali i Këngës.” Shkodra Elektronike has performed at significant events, including the opening of the Albania/Kosovo Pavilion at the 2019 Venice Biennale, the inauguration of Autostrada Biennale Hangar in Prizren, Kosovo, and Zā Fest IV. Their performances have been well-received by diverse audiences. In 2022, the project was selected by the Balkan music export initiative “MOST,” and they are currently managed by Alt Orient, a company founded in 2016 to support alternative Eastern and African electronic music. Their participation in “Festivali i Këngës 63” with the song “Zjerm” garnered significant public attention, leading to their victory and the opportunity to represent Albania in the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. Through their innovative fusion of traditional Shkodër music with electronic elements, Shkodra Elektronike continues to bridge cultural heritage with modern sounds, resonating with audiences both in Albania and internationally. Entries Zjerm Country🇦🇱 Albania Year2025 LanguageAlbanian LyricsBeatriçe GjergjiLekë Gjeloshi MusicBeatriçe Gjergji Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/RNT1SmmxuIk?si=KWxaXOc1k_qAcLpj

Nico

About Quick Facts NameNico Matei Born1 February 1970 Nationality🇷🇴 Romanian National SelectionSelecția Națională 2009Selecția Națională 2008Selecția Națională 2007Selecția Națională 2006Selecția Națională 2005Selecția Națională 2004Selecția Națională 2003 In Eurovision2008 Belgrade SongPe-o margine de lune (&Vlad, 2008) Biography Nico, whose full name is Nicoleta Matei, is a Romanian singer and songwriter born on February 1, 1970, in Ploiești, Romania. Known for her powerful voice, she performs pop, soul, and jazz music. She has been an influential figure in the Romanian music scene for decades. Nico’s music journey began in the 1990s after graduating from the Școala Populară de Artă (Popular School of Art) in Ploiești. She became the lead singer of the Estradă section at the Toma Caragiu Theater in Ploiești and also completed her studies at the George Enescu Conservatory in Bucharest. Early in her career, Nico gained popularity by collaborating with Romanian hip hop artists like B.U.G. Mafia and Puya, blending pop with urban sounds. These collaborations helped her gain recognition in the Romanian music industry. In 2003, she released her debut album, Gând pentru ei (“A Thought for Them”), showcasing her emotional voice and versatile style. Between 2003 and 2008, Nico established herself as a household name, releasing hits like “Nu pot să mai suport” and participating in music festivals. Her performance at the Golden Stag Festival in Brașov further boosted her fame. Seven times in a row (2003-2009), she participated in Selecția Națională, the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest. She won the contest in 2008. In 2008, Nico represented Romania at the Eurovision Song Contest with Vlad Miriță. Their duet, “Pe-o margine de lume,” was praised for its operatic and emotional style. It reached the Eurovision final and remains one of her most iconic songs. After Eurovision, Nico continued releasing music and performing at festivals. Between 2008 and 2020, she collaborated with artists like Cabron and Directia 5, exploring various music styles. In 2010, her hit “Poate Undeva” became a fan favorite. Ten years later, in 2020, she reunited with Cabron for “Oscar în doi,” a highly anticipated comeback collaboration. Nico is married to composer Laurențiu Matei, and they own a recording studio together. Balancing her career and family life, she remains a beloved artist in Romania, known for her talent, humility, and dedication to music. Entries Pe-o margine de lune (& Vlad) Country🇷🇴 Romania Year2008 LanguageRomanian LyricsAndreea AndreiAdina Şuteu MusicAndrei Tudor BackingsAndrei Tudor (piano) Results Semi Points: 94Position: 7Running order: 17 Results Finals Points: 45Position: 20Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/o_mvrGKbbqU?si=667haJAC01uY8QhA

Martina Majerle

About Quick Facts NameMartina Majerle Born02 May 1980 Nationality🇭🇷 Croatian National SelectionEMA 2015EMA 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLove Symphony (& Quartissimo, 2009) Biography Martina Majerle, born on May 2, 1980, in Rijeka, Croatia, is a Croatian singer of mixed Croatian and Slovenian descent. She began her music career as the lead singer of the Rijeka band Putokazi and later became a soloist in the ambient-electro-pop band Atmospheric. Majerle is best known for her multiple participations in the Eurovision Song Contest. She represented Slovenia in 2009 as the lead vocalist for the string quartet Quartissimo with the song “Love Symphony.” Although they competed in the second semi-final, they did not advance to the final. In addition to her 2009 appearance, Majerle has performed as a backing vocalist in the Eurovision Song Contest on several occasions: for Croatia in 2003, Slovenia in 2007, Montenegro in 2008, Slovenia in 2011 and 2012, Montenegro in 2014, and Croatia in 2016. Throughout her career, Majerle has collaborated with numerous renowned artists and participated in various music festivals. She made her debut at the Splitski Festival in 2011 with the song “Neka se dogodi čudo.” In 2013, she released a cover of Tony Esposito’s song “Kalimba de Luna” together with Mr. B and Chrisma Project. At the Melodije Istre i Kvarnera Festival in 2017, she won third place by the audience with the song “Teče teče Rečina,” and in 2018, she performed “Na Trsatu,” which won the second audience award. She also received the award for best interpretation in 2018 for the song “Međimurska voda sveta” at the MEF – Međimurski Festival. Majerle has been a member of the Croatian RTV orchestra and has been involved in major projects with the Croatian national broadcaster, including “The Voice,” “A strana,” “Singing with the Stars,” “Dora,” and “Porin.” She has performed as a backing vocalist for many famous musicians, such as Oliver Dragojević, Tereza Kesovija, Zdravko Čolić, Severina, Massimo Savić, Nina Badrić, and Toni Cetinski. In recent years, Majerle has continued to release new music. In 2020, she performed at the Večeri dalmatinske šansone festival in Šibenik, Croatia, where she achieved third place by the professional jury with her single “Volin Kad Si Tu.” She also released the single “Dajen ti besedu” in collaboration with Klapa Tić, which won third place by the audience at the Melodije Istre i Kvarnera Festival 2020. Both singles were released through her own record label, Majerle Music. In May 2021, Majerle represented Croatia at the annual Albanian music competition Kënga Magjike, performing her song “Vrijeme je na našoj strani.” Entries Love Symphony (& Quartissimo) Country🇸🇮 Slovenia Year2009 LanguageEnglishSlovenian LyricsAndrej BabićSaša Lendero MusicAndrej Babić BackingsSandra Feketija Results Semi Points: 14Position: 16Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/VQpE5hlLbJg?si=Nxx6p-61y0Zpn9Pt

Quartissimo

About Quick Facts MembersŽiga CerarMatjaž BogatajLuka DukarićSamo Dervišić Active2009 – 2011 Nationality🇸🇮 Slovenian National SelectionEMA 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLove Symphony (& Martina, 2009) Biography Quartissimo is a Slovenian violin quartet formed in 2007. The group consists of four classically trained musicians: Žiga Cerar, Matjaž Bogataj, Luka Dukarić, and Samo Dervišić. They are known for blending classical and modern music styles. In 2009, Quartissimo represented Slovenia in the Eurovision Song Contest with their song Love Symphony, featuring vocalist Martina Majerle. The song combined orchestral sounds with contemporary pop elements. While they delivered a unique performance in the second semi-final, they did not qualify for the grand final. The group’s name, Quartissimo, reflects their passion for string quartet music. Each member has a strong background in classical music and has performed with renowned Slovenian orchestras. Quartissimo has also performed in various international music festivals, promoting classical crossover music. Entries Love Symphony (featuring Martina) Country🇸🇮 Slovenia Year2009 LanguageEnglishSlovenian LyricsAndrej BabićSaša Lendero MusicAndrej Babić BackingsSandra Feketija Results Semi Points: 14Position: 16Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/VQpE5hlLbJg?si=Wjh592tITKy38geY

Nela Pocisková

About Quick Facts NameNela Pocisková Born04 October 1990 Nationality🇸🇰 Slovak National SelectionEurosong 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLeť tmou (& Kamil Mikulčík, 2009) Biography Nela Pocisková, born on October 4, 1990, in Bratislava, Slovakia, is a renowned Slovak singer and actress. She began singing at the age of eight and, by fourteen, secured the role of Katka in the musical Neberte nám princeznú, directed by Ján Ďurovčík. Pocisková’s early career featured performances in various productions, including the dance drama Labuťko, the musical West Side Story as Maria, and Fidlikant na streche under Jozef Bednárik’s direction. In 2009, she represented Slovakia in the Eurovision Song Contest alongside Kamil Mikulčík with the song Leť tmou. Despite their efforts, they did not advance to the final. The following year, Pocisková showcased her versatility by winning the fourth season of Let’s Dance, the Slovak version of Dancing with the Stars, partnered with Peter Modrovský. Her television career includes significant roles in popular Slovak series. She portrayed Nela Petrovičová in Ordinácia v ružovej záhrade (2007–2012) and starred as Nina Dolinská in Búrlivé víno (2013–2016). Since then, she has continued her success with roles in Nemocnica (2021–2023), Pán profesor (2021), Svätý Max (2022), Ranč (2025) and Vina (2025). In 2013, Pocisková released her debut album War, featuring the hit single So in Love, which topped the Slovak charts. Beyond her artistic endeavors, Pocisková’s personal life includes a partnership with actor Filip Tůma. Together, they have two children: a son named Hektor (2016) and a daughter named Liana (2018). Throughout her career, Nela Pocisková has received several accolades, including the OTO Award for Best Female Singer in 2011. As of 2025, she remains a prominent figure in Slovak entertainment, contributing to music and television while engaging in new artistic projects. Entries Leť tmou (& Kamil Mikulčik) Country🇸🇰 Slovakia Year2009 LanguageSlovak LyricsPetronela KolevskáAda Žigová MusicRastislav Dubovský BackingsRastislav Dubovský (piano)Jan Pospíšil (cello) Results Semi Points: 8Position: 18Running order: 8 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a-1x4CyQPtQ

Kamil Mikulčík

About Quick Facts NameKamil Mikulčík Born18 November 1977 Nationality🇸🇰 Slovak National SelectionEurosong 2009 In Eurovision2009 Modvoe SongLeť tmou (& Nela Pocisková, 2009) Biography Kamil Mikulčík, born on November 18, 1977, in Trnava, Slovakia, is a versatile artist known for his work as a singer, actor, and composer. He studied acting at the Academy of Performing Arts in Bratislava and also attended the University of Economics. In 2001, Mikulčík began his career with the Radošinské Naive Theatre, performing in productions such as “Jááánošííík,” “Generál,” and “Hra o láske.” He also appeared in the American film “Behind Enemy Lines” (2001). In 2004, he co-founded the a cappella group Fragile, contributing as a singer and arranger. The group released several albums, including “Voice Mail” (2007) and “Next Level” (2010). In 2009, Mikulčík represented Slovakia at the Eurovision Song Contest alongside Nela Pocisková with the song “Leť tmou.” They performed in the second semifinal but did not advance to the final. Beyond music, Mikulčík has an extensive acting portfolio. He starred in Slovak TV series such as “Ordinácia v ružovej záhrade” (2008–2009) and “Druhý dych” (2012). His film credits include “Muzika” (2008) and “Legenda o lietajúcom Cypriánovi” (2010). In his personal life, Mikulčík married actress Kristína Farkašová in 2009; they divorced in 2010. After 2012, Mikulčík continued to expand his artistic endeavors. He appeared in the TV series “Kolonáda” (2014) and “1890” (2017). In 2015, he featured in the children’s musical film “Spievankovo 5: O povolaniach.” In addition to acting, Mikulčík remained active in theater, performing in various productions across Slovakia and the Czech Republic. He also contributed as a composer for several theater performances, showcasing his musical versatility. Entries Leť tmou (& Nela Pocisková) Country🇸🇰 Slovakia Year2009 LanguageSlovak LyricsPetronela KolevskáAda Žigová MusicRastislav Dubovský BackingsRastislav Dubovský (piano)Jan Pospíšil (cello) Results Semi Points: 8Position: 18Running order: 8 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/a-1x4CyQPtQ?si=yVlXyhxGHcq5aKSD

Claude

About Quick Facts NameClaude Kiambe Born16 September 2003 Nationality🇳🇱 Dutch National SelectionInternal Selection 2025 In Eurovision2025 Basel SongTBA (2025) Biography Claude Kiambe, known simply as Claude, is a Dutch singer-songwriter with roots in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Born on September 16, 2003, he moved to the Netherlands in 2013 with his mother and six siblings, seeking refuge from the conflicts in their homeland. The family initially stayed in an asylum seekers’ center in Alkmaar before settling in Enkhuizen. Claude’s musical journey began in his teenage years. In 2017, he won a local talent show in Enkhuizen, performing “Uit elkaar” by Yes-R. Two years later, he participated in the eighth season of The Voice Kids, impressing judges with “Papaoutai” by Stromae, though he exited during the battle rounds. His breakthrough came in 2022 with the release of “Ladada (Mon dernier mot),” a bilingual Dutch-French pop song. The track resonated widely, reaching the number one position on the Dutch Top 40 and earning double platinum status in the Netherlands. Following this success, Claude released several singles, including “Layla” in 2023, which achieved platinum certification, and “Vas-y (Ga maar),” a collaboration with Dutch duo Suzan & Freek. His music is characterized by catchy melodies and a blend of Dutch and French lyrics, drawing inspiration from artists like Stromae. In 2024, Claude’s rising prominence led to his participation in the popular Dutch TV program Beste Zangers, where he shared his life story and musical talents. Later that year, he released his debut album, “Parler français,” which showcases his versatility and multicultural influences. In December 2024, Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS announced Claude as the Netherlands’ representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, set to take place in Basel, Switzerland. Expressing his excitement, Claude stated, “I feel enormously honored to represent the Netherlands in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest and can hardly believe it. I am very much looking forward to it and can’t wait to share the song with Europe.” Beyond his musical achievements, Claude is known for his advocacy for inclusivity and his efforts to bridge cultural divides through his art. Entries TBA Country🇳🇱 The Netherlands Year2025 LanguageTBA LyricsTBA MusicTBA Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/NSIolFvLwXQ?si=ETvg7MthKycd-_A7

Adonxs

About Quick Facts NameAdam Pavlovčin Born13 September 1995 Nationality🇸🇰 Slovak National SelectionInternal Selection 2025 In Eurovision2025 Basel SongTBA (2025) Biography Adam Pavlovčin, known professionally as Adonxs, is a Slovak singer-songwriter, dancer, model, and LGBTQ+ activist. Born on September 13, 1995, in Myjava, Slovakia, he was inspired by his older sister to pursue singing and dancing from an early age. He later moved to Bratislava to attend C.S. Lewis Bilingual High School and took acting classes at the New Scene theater. At 16, he signed with a modeling agency. Adonxs initially focused on dance, becoming a five-time Slovak champion in IDO street dance disciplines. He later rediscovered his passion for singing and moved to Prague for classical training under opera singer Hana Peckova. He then relocated to London, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Songwriting and Creative Musicianship from the British and Irish Modern Music Institute, graduating with first-class honors. In London, Adonxs co-founded the alternative band Pace, serving as the lead singer. The band released their debut EP, “Keeper,” in early 2018, followed by singles “Hunt Me Down” in 2019 and “Fallen” in 2020. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he returned to Prague in 2021 to pursue a solo career. Adonxs gained prominence by winning the seventh season of SuperStar, the Czech-Slovak version of Idols, in 2021. He is the first openly queer winner of the competition and has been an advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, using his platform to promote inclusivity and challenge traditional gender norms. In 2022, he released his debut solo single “Moving On,” followed by his album “Age of Adonxs,” which earned him numerous accolades, including Album of the Year and Best Male Artist in Slovakia. His music blends baroque pop, avant-pop, and alternative pop, showcasing his deep vocal range and artistic versatility. In December 2024, it was announced that Adonxs would represent Czechia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, to be held in Basel, Switzerland. He expressed that participating in Eurovision has always been a big dream and feels a great responsibility to represent a country with a strong recent history in the competition. Beyond his musical endeavors, Adonxs is known for his distinctive visual presentation and advocacy for LGBTQ+ rights, striving to foster inclusivity and equal rights through his art and public appearances Entries TBA Country🇨🇿 Czechia Year2025 LanguageTBA LyricsTBA MusicTBA Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/NSIolFvLwXQ?si=TCdmIUO-86lBTL6N