Düsseldorf

Musiqq

© Mysuka, Wikimedia Commons About Quick Facts MembersMarats OgļezņevsEmīls Balceris Born2009 Nationality🇱🇻 Latvian National SelectionEirodziesma 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongAngel In Disguise (2011) Biography Musiqq, a Latvian pop music duo from Liepāja, was formed in 2009 by Marats Ogļezņevs and Emīls Balceris. The formation process began when Marats Ogļezņevs left his previous group “Device” and invited Emīls Balceris to collaborate. They had first met in 2008 while participating in the TV show “Koru kari” (“Choir Wars”), where they both sang in the Liepājas red choir, led by singer Chilli. Following this, after seeing Balceris perform on a youth broadcast, Ogļezņevs reached out with an invitation to meet and work together, leading to their first meeting where they wrote four demo versions of songs. The duo first gained exposure in June 2009 with the release of their single “Klimata kontrole”(“Climate control”). This was followed by their second single “Abrakadabra” on October 1, 2009, which became a radio hit in Latvia and won the “SEB Musical Bank 2009.” Their debut album “Šī ir tikai mūzika”(“This is just music”) was released in March 2010, featuring tracks such as “Abrakadabra”, “Dzimšanas diena” (“Birthday”), and “Klimata kontrole” (“Climate control”). The duo received significant recognition for their contributions to music and their city, being awarded the “Gada Liepājnieks” (“Liepajnieks of the Year”) in the music category and receiving three Copyright infinity prizes for their frequently played songs on radio, television, and concerts. In 2011, Musiqq represented Latvia in the Eurovision Song Contest in Düsseldorf with the song “Angel in Disguise.” Following their participation in Eurovision, they continued their music career and in 2011 also formed a Latvian rap duo named “Bermudu Divstūris,” a play on the Bermuda Triangle, translating to “The Bermuda Digon.” As “Bermudu Divstūris,” they released three studio albums and won The Golden Microphone award in 2014 for “Best hip-hop or dance album.” Musiqq’s second album “Vēl viena mūzika”(“Another music”) was released in November 2014, marking the group’s fifth anniversary. This album featured several popular singles including “Sekundes”(“Seconds”) and “Cтрана без называния”(“Country without name”). Their largest live performance to date was their fifth birthday concert in Palladium in Riga on November 16, 2014, where they showcased this album. In 2015, Musiqq released their first acoustic album “Silta sirds”(“Warm heart”) in collaboration with various artists, marking a new phase in their musical journey. The album led to their first acoustic concert tour “Silta sirds,” visiting five cities in Latvia. Their album “10,” celebrating their 10th anniversary, was released in 2019. This album included 10 tracks and was commemorated with a grandiose concert in “Arena Riga” on April 27, 2019, showcasing the duo’s continued success and popularity over a decade. Hitsingles of this album were “Miljonārs” and “Bozies”. A new single, “Garīgais arī”, was released in August 2020 and “Mēs viena koka zari” in November of the same year. A year later, they came up with the song “Varu bez tevis”. After COVID19, they were able to perform on festivals again in the summer of 2022. In October of that year, Musiqq started a tour, “Bijis, ir un būs”, followed by a series of concerts with the same name. In December, they released a new single, “Ar tevi kopā”. The mini album, “Bijis, ir un būs”, was released on all streaming platforms only in January 2023. In January 2024, Musiqq released their new single “Mākslas darbs”. Entries Angel In Disguise Country🇱🇻 Latvia Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsMarats Ogļezņevs MusicMarats Ogļezņevs BackingsRuta DudumaLība Ēce-KalniņaKristaps ŠēnbergsGatis Supe Results Semi Points: 25Position: 17Running order: 17 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/W083yQOluq4?si=9y_ekGDChNXiJrX_

Dana International

About Quick Facts NameSharon Cohen Born02 February 1969 Nationality🇮🇱 Israeli National SelectionKdam Eurovision 2011Internal selection 1998Kdam Eurovision 1995 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf1998 Birmingham SongDing Dong (2011)Diva (1998) Biography Sharon Cohen, known professionally as Dana International, was born on February 2, 1969, in Tel Aviv, Israel. Emerging from a Yemenite-Jewish family, she is the youngest of three siblings. Dana International, who was assigned male at birth, identified as female from an early age, aspiring to be a singer after being inspired by Ofra Haza’s performance in the 1983 Eurovision Song Contest. Despite the family’s financial constraints, her mother supported her musical ambitions, and Dana came out as transgender at the age of 13. Before her transition, Cohen performed as a drag queen, imitating female singers. Her career took a significant turn when Israeli DJ Offer Nissim discovered her, producing her debut single “Saida Sultana,” a satirical take on Whitney Houston’s “My Name Is Not Susan.” This exposure was pivotal in launching her professional music career. In 1993, after undergoing male-to-female sex reassignment surgery and legally changing her name to Sharon Cohen, she released her debut album “Danna International,” which achieved gold record status in Israel. Dana’s career saw a swift rise with the release of her albums “Umpatampa” (1994) and “Maganuna” (1996), which solidified her commercial success. She participated in Kdam Eurovision 1995 with the song “Layla Tov Europa”. Her breakthrough came in 1998 when she represented Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest with “Diva,” securing first place and catapulting her to international fame. Despite facing opposition from conservative factions within Israel, her victory was celebrated across Europe, and she became a symbol of reconciliation and acceptance. Following her Eurovision win, Dana released several successful albums, including “Free” (1999), “Yoter VeYoter” (2001), “HaHalom HaEfshari” (2002), and “Hakol Ze Letova” (2007). In 2011, she returned to Eurovision with “Ding Dong,” although she did not advance to the final. That same year, she joined the judging panel of the Israeli television music talent contest “Kokhav Nolad.” Throughout her career, Dana International has been a trailblazer and a significant figure in the LGBTQ+ community. Her music and public presence have contributed to the broader conversation around gender identity and acceptance. Despite the challenges she faced, including a brief setback with Sony BMG and a period of reduced public visibility, she remained an influential voice in music and LGBTQ+ rights. In recent years, Dana continued to release new music, including singles “Ma La’asot” (2013), “Loca” (2013), and “Ir Shlema” (2013). She also ventured into television, searching for Israel’s next girl group on “Yeshnan Banot,” and participated in various pride events, reinforcing her message of love and tolerance. In 2018, she celebrated the 20th anniversary of her Eurovision win with a new version of “Diva” and performed at significant events, including the 2018 Israeli LGBT’s strike and the Jerusalem Pride and Tolerance Parade. Dana International’s legacy extends beyond her music; she is a cultural icon who embodies the spirit of perseverance and the fight for acceptance in the face of adversity. In October 2020, Dana participated in the “Call of the Hour” project, in which contemporary artists revived Hebrew songs, and she performed, alongside comedian Shahar Hasson and producer Omri Segal, a renewed version of the song “Makhelet Aliza” by Chava Alberstein. In October 2022, an evening in honor of Dana International was held, titled “A Tribute to Dana International,” where a large number of Israeli female artists performed her songs, including Ilanit, Gali Atari, Zehava Ben, and Dafna Dekel. The event was attended by the fourteenth Prime Minister of Israel, Yair Lapid, making it the first official LGBTQ+ event in the history of the State of Israel to be attended by a Prime Minister. Read more about Dana International in After the Eurovision Fame. Entries Ding Dong Country🇮🇱 Israel Year2011 LanguageEnglishHebrew LyricsDana International MusicDana International Backings5 backings, names unknown Results Semi Points: 38Position: 15Running order: 12 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/bWVuuvqEArE?si=eWSzhIeoYHMAwtqc Diva Country🇮🇱 Israel Year1998 LanguageHebrew LyricsYoav Ginai MusicTzvika Pik Conductor– BackingsShirley TzapriGalit DahanLilach KochTalia Adler Results Points: 172Position: 1Running order: 8 https://youtu.be/pJVnjTmt4eA?si=F4DNMTE6HqhgEuvD

Vlatko Ilievski

About Quick Facts NameVlatko Ilievski Born02 July 1985 Deceased06 July 2018 Nationality🇲🇰 Macedonian National SelectionSkopje Fest 2015Skopje Fest 2011Skopje Fest 2010Skopje Fest 2009Skopje Fest 2008 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongRusinka (2011) Biography Vlatko Ilievski was a Macedonian pop rock singer and actor. Born in the capital city of Skopje, then part of Yugoslavia and now in North Macedonia, Ilievski discovered his passion for music at the age of 12. He began his musical journey playing guitar and singing with local bands in his hometown. His talent was evident early on, leading to his performance at the Macedonian Rock-Fest in 2000 with “Made in Macedonia,” where he claimed two awards. In the year 2000, Ilievski was approached by the rock ensemble Moral to become a member. This collaboration led to the creation of their album “Koga Patuvam” by 2003, featuring tracks like “Panichno te sakam” (I Panic Love You), “Skopje,” “Ti si” (You Are), “Ova e Makedonija” (This is Macedonia), and “A ti me ubivash” (And You Kill Me). The band gained significant recognition, even opening for Deep Purple during their Skopje concert in 2005. Ilievski embarked on a solo career in 2007, producing hits such as “Nebo” (Sky), “Ushte si mi ti” (You Are Still Mine), and “So Drugi Zborovi” (In Other Words). Notable performances included his appearances at Ohrid Fest 2008, Skopje Fest 2008 (the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest) and Makfest 2008, amongst others. His songs like “Najbogat na svet” (Richest in the World) and “Gushni me” (Hug Me, with Tamara) further solidified his place in the Macedonian music scene. He also participated in Skopje Fest 2009 and 2010. His debut solo concert took place on June 5, 2010, at the Boris Trajkovski Hall, drawing a crowd of 10,000. This event highlighted his popularity, featuring duets with Tamara and support from local bands. In 2011, he won Skopje Fest with the song “Rusinka” and represented North Macedonia with his song. Unfortunately, he didn’t manage to reach the final. His continued participation in music festivals, including Skopje Fest 2015, demonstrated his enduring appeal in the industry. Ilievski released two albums, “So drugi zborovi” (In Other Words) and “Najbogat na svet” (Richest in the World), each containing ten tracks that range from love ballads to unplugged versions, illustrating his dynamic as an artist. Tragically, Ilievski passed away on July 6, 2018. He was found deceased in his car in Skopje, with the cause of death attributed to combined drug intoxication, marking a sorrowful end to the career of a promising Macedonian talent. Entries Rusinka Country🇲🇰 North Macedonia Year2011 LanguageMacedonianEnglish LyricsMarko Marinković-SlatkaristikaJovan Jovanov MusicGrigor KoprovVladimir Dojcinovski Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/LBgSn2rsGAA?si=3l-5gay75hw0sh8z

Christos Mylordos

About Quick Facts NameChristos Mylordos Born30 April 1991 Nationality🇨🇾 Cypriot National SelectionPerformance 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongSan aggelos s’agapisa (2011) Biography Christos Mylordos (Greek: Χρίστος Μυλόρδος) (Nicosia, April 30, 1991) is a Cypriot singer. On September 10, 2010, he won the talent show Performance, the Cypriot version of X Factor, with the song ‘Love Supreme’ by Robbie Williams. With 11,004 votes, he comfortably beat Louis Panagiotou (5,924 points), who represented Cyprus at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest in 2006. As a result, he was chosen to represent his country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 in Germany with the song ‘San aggelos s’agapisas’. However, he did not manage to qualify for the final. The song “Giates mafineis mono” was the follow up of this song in 2012. Christos started working at the Asmation Live Stage in Nicosia in 2013, as one of the permanent performers there. With 5 other Cypriot artists, he formed a team and worked together until May 2014. A new collaboration started in February 2015, with the VSeven Live Club in Paphos. In May of that year, Christos’ new single “Na pou girises” was released. He later became member of the Venue Club team in Larnaka. That lasted until May 2016. He left the Venue Club for a short time to return in October. Since 2017, Mylordos performs in several clubs. He especially sang in the Baraki club in Nicosia. That stopped in March 2020, due to the COVID19 crisis, but in June he left Baraki. However, in June 2021 he started to perform again at Baraki. In February 2022 he started performing in the Classico All Day Bar in Nicosia until it closed in December of the same year. Entries San Aggelos S’Agapisa Country🇨🇾 Cyprus Year2011 LanguageGreek LyricsMichalis Antoniou MusicAndreas Anastasiou BackingsChrissie Andreou MaroulliAgathaggelos AgathaggelouChristos NikolaouPavlos PolichrinisAntoniou Antonis Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://youtu.be/RxkBW0ey5BU?si=kGQqH-mZLDVaMMPV

TWiiNS

About Quick Facts MembersVeronika NízlováDaniela Nízlová Born15 May 1986 Nationality🇸🇰 Slovakia National SelectionInternal selection 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongI’m still alive (2011) Biography Twiins, formerly known as Tweens, is a Slovak musical duo formed by twin sisters Veronika and Daniela Nízlová, born on May 15, 1986, in Hronský Beňadik. The sisters pursued their education at the University of Economics and Public Administration in Bratislava. They first garnered attention in 1996 when they won a children’s song contest, Hviezdička, marking the beginning of their musical journey. Originally named Tweens, a name conceived by Daniel Hevier, they embarked on their musical career with their debut album “Tweens” in 2000. This was followed by “Máme čas…” in 2001, “Škrtni zápalkou” in 2003, and “Láska chce viac” in 2005, all under their initial band name. These albums helped establish their presence in the Slovak music scene. In 2008, the duo underwent a significant transformation, changing their name to Twiins. This change coincided with the release of their music video for the song “I Don’t Know,” which was filmed in the USA. This marked a new phase in their career, expanding their audience and artistic direction. The Twiins’ journey took an international turn on May 14, 2011, when they represented Slovakia at the 56th Eurovision Song Contest in Düsseldorf, Germany. Their participation in this event was a direct nomination by RTVS, the Slovak public broadcaster, due to budgetary constraints that year. Under their new name, Twiins, they released the album “Compromise” in 2009, showcasing their evolution as artists. They continued to release music, including “Singles Collection” in 2017, a compilation that highlighted their journey and success over the years. In 2021, they released “Zlatá Brána Dokorán,” further solidifying their place in the music industry. Entries I’m Still Alive Country🇸🇰 Slovakia Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsBryan ToddSandra Nordstrom MusicBryan ToddSandra NordstromBranislav Jančich Backings– Results Semi Points: 48Position: 13Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/Lmn1mvWQIOY?si=gtPZRC_NAczt2IBZ

Witloof Bay

About Quick Facts MembersSenjka Danhieux (RoxorLoops)Etienne DebaisieuxBenoît GiauxNicolas DorianFlorence HubyAlexia Saffery Active2005- Nationality🇧🇪 Belgium National SelectionEurovision 2011: Qui? A vous de choisir! In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongWith Love Baby (2011) Biography Witloof Bay is a Belgian a cappella group. In 2005, a group of six friends united by their passion for jazz, pop, a cappella, and beatboxing formed a musical ensemble. Drawing inspiration from influential groups like The Real Group, Take 6, The Swingle Singers, and The Singers Unlimited, they began performing together. The band showcases versatility by singing in both English and French, appealing to a diverse audience. The members of the band hail from various regions across Belgium – Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels – embodying a true representation of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. One of the members, RoxorLoops, was also a member of Beatoxic, who took part in the Belgian national final for the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest. Their debut, self-titled album was released in 2008, marking their official entry into the music scene. A significant milestone for the group came on February 12, 2011, when Witloof Bay was chosen to represent Belgium at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. Despite their unique performance, the group narrowly missed a spot in the final, falling short by just one point. Their song, “With love baby” reached the Wallon Ultratop. The group was also able to perform in Germany, Finland, Argentina, Luxembourg, Estonia and France. In 2012, the band was nominated for an award for best live performance at D6Bels. Performances continued, of course in Belgium but also in The Netherlands, Italy, France and Germany. In March 2013, the band was able to perform in Bogota, Bolivia. In June of that year, they released the video of a new song, “Elle s’en va”, written and composed by Nicolas Dorian. A month later, they performed in Canada and Taiwan. In October, they started a new show called “Show B”. It was in January 2015 when Witloof Bay made its debut in Poland. In May, Nicolas Dorian was a backing vocal in the Eurovision Song Contest with Loïc Nottet. After a 6 months break, they started performing again in January 2016, although just occasionally. The members of Witloof Bay started their own projects. RoxorLoops took part in Dansk Melodi Grand Prix 2020, the Danish national final for Eurovision, in collaboration with Jasmine Rose. They performed the song “Human”. Entries With Love Baby Country🇧🇪 Belgium Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsRoxorLoopsBenoît Giaux MusicRoxorLoopsBenoît Giaux Backings– Results Semi Points: 53Position: 11Running order: 4 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/22xexkRESXw?si=SeZEhVX3FihaQRBr

3JS

About Quick Facts MembersJan DullesJaap KwakmanJan de Witte Founded2002 Nationality🇳🇱 Dutch National SelectionNationaal Songfestival 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongNever Alone (2011) Biography Formed in 2002 in Volendam, Netherlands, 3JS is a Dutch band known for its melodious fusion of pop and rock with Dutch lyrics. The band originally consisted of Jan Dulles (vocals), Jaap Kwakman (guitar), and Jaap de Witte (guitar). The name ‘3JS’ was derived from the first initials of the three founding members. The journey of 3JS began in the bustling music scene of Volendam, a town with a rich musical heritage. Initially, they gained recognition for their live performances in local venues, where their combination of poetic lyrics and melodious music won them a dedicated following. Their music, deeply rooted in Dutch culture and language, resonated with a wide audience, contributing to their growing popularity. In 2007, the band signed a record deal with Warner Music Benelux, marking the beginning of their professional recording career. Their debut album, “Watermensen,” was released in the same year and received critical acclaim. The album’s honest and heartfelt lyrics, combined with the band’s distinct sound, established 3JS as a significant act in the Dutch music industry. Following their successful debut, 3JS continued to release a series of albums that cemented their status in the Dutch music scene. Albums like “Kamers van m’n Hart” (2008) and “Dromers en Dwazen” (2010) showcased the band’s versatility and ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. A significant milestone in their career was representing the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011 with the song “Je Vecht Nooit Alleen.” Although they did not win, their participation brought them international exposure and showcased their talent on a larger stage. The band underwent a significant change in 2013 when Jaap de Witte had to step down due to health issues. He was replaced by his son, Jan de Witte, marking a new chapter in the band’s history. This transition was seamless, and the band continued to produce music and perform with the same passion and energy. 3JS experimented with an acoustic sound for their album “7.” Preparations included a creative trip to Los Angeles, resulting in several new songs and significant musical inspiration. Most of the album was recorded in Volendam at Studio Arnold Mühren, featuring a live setting with producer Attie Bauw. Notable singles from “7” include “Grenzeloos,” “Samen door,” and “Pas dan laat ik je gaan.” The 2018 album “NU” marked a shift in sound and production, realized in collaboration with producer Oscar Holleman. The band embraced external influences, evidenced by the collaboration with Diggy Dex on the opening track “Misschien niet nu.” “NU” also featured the poignant “De betere jaren,” reflecting on Jan Dulles’ father’s battle with Alzheimer’s. This album was the last to feature Jan de Witte before his departure for a solo project. “De Aard Van Het Beest,” released in 2020, introduced the influence of new band member Robin Küller. The album, presenting an Americana sound, was uniquely launched via a live stream due to the pandemic. It included hits like “Dansen tot het over is” and “Het kind in mij,” and a collaboration on “De brug” with co-founder Jaap de Witte. 2021 saw a deluxe edition of the album, featuring new compositions like “Vreemde leegte,” a tribute to Dulles’ late daughter Donna-Maria. In 2023, 3JS fulfilled a dream with “Mooie Tijden,” recording in an American studio with local musicians and producer Bob Clearmountain. The album, enriched with Americana influences, featured session musicians like Sean Hurley and Victor Indrizzo, encapsulating the band’s evolving musical journey. Entries Never Alone Country🇳🇱 The Netherlands Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsJaap KwakmanJan DullesJaap de Witte MusicJaap KwakmanJan DullesJaap de Witte BackingsBrian ZalmijnLesley van der AaMichèle van der Aa Results Semi Points: 13Position: 19Running order: 3 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/m5uiD4BIcNk?si=lm2sTxfX1rDmMoZJ

Homens da luta

About Quick Facts MembersVasco DuarteNuno ‘Jel’ DuarteCelina da PiedadeTânia LopesRui RechenaHugo Osga Active2010 – 2013 Nationality🇵🇹 Portuguese National SelectionFestival RTP da Canção 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongA luta é alegria (2011) Biography Homens da Luta, a dynamic duo comprising brothers Vasco Duarte (Falâncio) and Nuno Duarte “Jel” (Neto), is a well-known Portuguese group blending improvisational comedy with musical street performances. Their creative works humorously mimic songs from the era following the 1974 Carnation Revolution. They skillfully craft their characters as exaggerated versions of revolutionary singers from that period, including Zeca Afonso and José Mário Branco. The term “struggle” frequently surfaces in their performances, echoing slogans popularized during the revolutionary times, such as “A Luta Continua” (The Struggle Goes On). In 2010, they released an mp3 album titled “A Canção é uma arma” (The song is a weapon), which features 14 tracks. Among these, “E o povo, pá?” (What about the people, man?) stands out as one of their most celebrated songs. Regarding the Eurovision Song Contest, Homens da Luta first participated in the RTP Song Festival 2010 with their song “Luta assim não dá” (The struggle can’t go on like this), but were disqualified for previously performing it, violating contest rules. They made a comeback in 2011 with “A luta é alegria” (The struggle is joy), a song penned by Nuno Duarte “Jel” and composed by Vasco Duarte. Initially in sixth place, public voting surged them to first place, earning them a spot in Düsseldorf. Representing Portugal at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 in Germany, they did not secure enough international votes to advance to the final. Notably, as the group primarily consists of comedians rather than traditional singers, and given their win was more a result of public favor than jury selection, their victory stirred some controversy within the contest community. Homens da Luta kept on performing and making protest songs in 2011 and 2012. After that, the group returned to a duo again. Mid 2013 the men went their own way. Entries Luta è alegria Country🇵🇹 Portugal Year2011 LanguagePortuguese LyricsNuno ‘Jel’ Duarte MusicVasco Duarte Backings– Results Semi Points: 22Position: 18Running order: 16 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/KIzdiAYd9IA?si=ezOx9OSmLpM4XdGJ

Daria Kinzer

About Quick Facts NameDaria Kinzer Born29 May 1988 Nationality🇭🇷 Croatian🇦🇹 Austrian National SelectionDORA 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongCelebrate (2011) Biography Daria Kinzer is a Croatian-Austrian singer, born in Aschaffenburg, Germany, on May 29, 1988. She grew up in Vienna, raised by a Croatian mother and a German father. Her musical journey saw a significant milestone in March 2011 when she emerged victorious in Croatia’s national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest on HRT’s television program, advancing to compete in the first semi-final with her dance track “Celebrate.” Despite a spirited performance, she did not advance to the contest’s final round. Beyond her endeavors in music, Kinzer has also made her mark as a talented musical theatre actress. Kinzer is not just known for her vocal abilities; she is also academically accomplished. She holds degrees in Business Management & Administration from FHWien and in Theatre, Film, and Media Studies from the University of Vienna. Her foray into the world of Schlager music materialized with the release of her debut album “Between Heaven and Earth” on July 12, 2013. She sang on the show “My Musicians,” and for the Croatian audience in the Vienna Concert Hall at the Croatian Tamburitza Rhapsody. In Austria, Daria released a pop album titled “2 Nice”. The singer also played leading roles in musicals such as Chicago, Cats, Hair, Little Shop of Horrors, Beauty and the Beast, and Mamma Mia. In December 2018 she formed Dolls & Guy with Pablo Grande and Tanja Petrasek, for Christmas concerts. She kept on performing with Dolls & Guys on other occasions. They did a show with songs from musicals, called Musical Zirkus, in 2019. At the end of the year, they had a new musical show. In 2021 Daria started performing at cruises with a band. In 2022 she continued with musical concerts. In both 2022 and 2023 Daria performed at the Oktoberfesten. Entries Celebrate Country🇭🇷 Croatia Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsBoris ĐurđevićMarina Mudrinić MusicBoris Đurđević BackingsKatarina JurićIrena KrižAna Jakšić Results Semi Points: 41Position: 15Running order: 13 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/Y0yt3fgPut8?si=G8nE_86BNnV0HAoh

Yüksek Sadakat

About Quick Facts NameKenan VuralSerkan ÖzgenKutlu ÖzmakinacıUğur OnatkutAlpay Şalt Founded1997 Nationality🇹🇷 Turkish National SelectionInternal selection 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongLive It Up (2011) Biography Yüksek Sadakat, founded in 2004, is a Turkish rock band initially formed by bass guitarist Kutlu Özmakinacı in Istanbul in 1997. Kutlu Özmakinacı, born in 1966 in İzmir, started his law education at Istanbul University in the 1980s. During his university years, he began playing the electric guitar and started his first musical endeavors with amateur university bands. After graduating, Özmakinacı played in various bars in Istanbul from 1986 to 1988. In 1988, he took a break from music to start a career in journalism with Sokak magazine in 1989. During his journalism career, Özmakinacı met members of the disbanded Turkish rock band Aqua. In 1991, he restarted his music career with these members, marking his first significant foray into the music industry. In 1997, after leaving Aqua members in 1995 and spending two years searching for a new group, Özmakinacı formed the band Filinta. This band is considered an early version of Yüksek Sadakat. However, the songs from this period are largely inaccessible, with some later released under Yüksek Sadakat. Following the disbandment of Filinta, Özmakinacı continued his pursuit of music. He began songwriting with Mutlu Çağlayan and reconnected with former Filinta members Uğur Onakut and Deniz Alemdar in 2003. Serkan Özgen, a veteran of the 1990s band Bulutsuzluk Özlemi, joined the group in 2003. In 2004, Özmakinacı officially formed Yüksek Sadakat. The band’s name translates to “High Fidelity.” The band’s debut album, “Yüksek Sadakat,” was released in January 2005. It featured Sufi-inspired lyrics and themes of love and spirituality. The band received significant attention for their music videos and won the 33rd Golden Butterfly Award for “Best Newcomer” alongside Grup Seksendört. After the success of their first album, the band faced member changes. Vocalist Cemil Demirbakan and drummer Deniz Alemdar left and were replaced by Kenan Vural and Alpay Şalt. Their second album, “Katil & Maktûl,” released in March 2008, continued to explore themes of love and Sufism. Yüksek Sadakat represented Turkey at the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Live It Up.” They did not advance to the finals, marking a significant moment in the band’s history. The “Renk Körü” album, released during this period, marked a significant evolution in the band’s style, featuring themes and sounds distinct from their previous albums. More lineup changes occurred in 2013, with the departure of Kenan Vural and Alpay Şalt. They were replaced by Selçuk Sami Cingi and former drummer Deniz Alemdar. The album “IV” represented another evolution in their music style, with a distinctly different sound from their previous albums. The band planned a new album in 2020, delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The album “Rengarenk” was announced for release on September 24, 2021. Throughout their career, Yüksek Sadakat has been known for their frequent changes in vocalists and drummers, and their music has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changes in lineup and artistic direction. Entries Live It Up Country🇹🇷 Turkey Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsErgün Arsal MusicKutlu Özmakinacı DancersLeilani Franco Results Semi Points: 47Position: 13Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/-6Ew5qYzo9k?si=oX4M2hpTXr6FhhlM