escNorge har fått noen vanlige spørsmål og svar tilsendt fra Dami Im, som i år representerer Australia med låten «Sound of Silence». Les «intervjuet», og se videohilsenen fra Im nederst i saken.

Im kommer med noen avsløringer rundt sin musikk. Og finn ut hvilke bidrag hun har troen på i år, og hvem som er hennes absolutte Eurovision-favoritt gjennom tidene. 

What does it mean for you to represent your country at the Eurovision Song Contest?

– I am so thrilled and honoured to be representing Australia at Eurovision this year in Stockholm. I am really excited to be following in the footsteps of Guy Sebastian and Jessica Mauboy who have both graced the Eurovision stage before me on behalf of Australia. I have always had such respect and admiration for the Eurovision Song Contest and to be representing my country is such an honour for me. This is by far the biggest experience of my life and I am going to give it my very best shot and enjoy it!

What is the message behind Sound of Silence? Tell us about the writing process for the song.

– ‘Sound of Silence’ is about the loneliness you feel being away from someone you love. It’s also about feeling disconnected because these days we live in a world where it is easy to be connected every minute of the day but along with this connection you can feel alone and isolated.

–The first time I heard Sound of Silence I knew it was the perfect song for me to perform at the Eurovision Song Contest and I can’t wait to showcase it live in Stockholm!

Sound of Silence was written by Australian hit makers DNA Songs (David Musumeci and Anthony Egizii) who have written for some of the biggest names in pop music, including Ricky Martin, Jessica Mauboy, Nathaniel, Delta Goodrem and The Veronicas.

Tell us about the inspiration behind the official music clip for Sound Of Silence.

– We really tried to communicate the core message in the song, with the irony in how chasing your dreams can sweep you up in a wild rollercoaster ride and take you away from those closest to you. It is quite an emotional song, so working on the treatment for the video was an interesting process with lots of different ideas. In the end we decided to focus on movement, lighting and camera angles to create more impact. I really loved working on the styling for it, especially since we used Australian designers!

What can we expect to see on stage for the Eurovision performance?

– I want my performance to be interesting and spectacular to watch for the viewers, but also want to ensure I connect with the audience in an intimate way. I am working with a team of amazing people to help me create that through stage design, movements and costume. Stay tuned!

Can you tell us a bit about the outfit you’ll be wearing on stage?

– I absolutely love fashion so I’m very much looking forward to showcasing my outfit! I can’t give too much away yet, but I am in discussions with some incredible Australian designers and I know it will be beautiful and unique.

What are you most looking forward to when visiting Sweden for Eurovision?

– I’m looking forward to being in the amazing city of Stockholm during a warmer climate. Last time I was there for a song writing trip and it was in the middle of winter – absolutely freezing!! So it will be interesting to see it in a different climate and be able to spend some more time outside 😉 I’m also looking forward to some traditional meatballs!

Foto: Giles Park

What are some of your favourite acts in this year’s Eurovision?

– There are some incredible contestants this year, a few of my favourites that I have come across so far…. Spain’s ‘Say Yay’ by Barei. It’s such a cool song that makes me want to dance! I love the video clip with all the dancers on the street. 

– Russia’s ‘You Are The Only One’ by Sergey Lazarev. It’s such a cool electro track and the clip is amazing. It has got fire, wind, smoke and dancers and I think it will be amazing to see this on stage! Israel’s Made of Stars by Hovi Star. It’s a big epic ballad which I love and his voice sounds amazing. I can’t wait to see him perform live.

Have you been following Eurovision in the past? What was your reaction when Australia was invited to compete in it last year?

– I have always loved watching Eurovision with my school friends. I was so excited when Australia was invited last year to compete for the first time! We always wanted to join the fun so we’re super thrilled that we were invited.

Who is your favourite all time Eurovision act?

– Conchita Wurst! Her voice is just incredible and is such a lovely person. I could never forget the day she invited me to perform at her concert at the Opera House in Australia. I also love ABBA and their songs, especially ‘Waterloo’.

When did you start singing? What are some of the highlights of your musical career so far?

– I began my musical journey playing classical piano when I was young, then started singing in my bedroom when I was 13! My biggest break came as a singer when I won The X Factor Australia 2013, and another highlight was touring Australia with John Legend as his support act… that was incredible.

Who are your musical inspirations?

– The beautiful songs of The Carpenters, Joni Mitchell, Carole King, the amazing voices of Mariah Carey, Celine Dion, Whitney Houston, Adele to name a few.

Musically, what are your future projects?

– I’m releasing a tribute album this year in April full of The Carpenter’s songs. I’ve always loved their music which is timeless and so beautiful, this is a very special project for me. I will then commence my first national Australia tour in July which I am so excited about! If you are in Australia you must come and say hello!

If people outside Australia have never heard of you before – what should they know about you?

– I want them to know that I’m an ordinary girl who is so passionate about singing, playing piano and connecting with my audience and I can’t wait to perform for them!

Besides singing, can you tell us a little about your hobbies in Australia?

– I love to eat! Haha

– I really like to cook in my spare time, especially Korean food. I love baking, but I’m not very good at it! Really enjoy spending time with my husband and exploring some of Queensland’s beautiful beaches.

What would you like to say to your fans/fans of Eurovision?

– I cannot wait to meet fans and all of the other contestants very soon! You are all incredibly inspiring. I hope that I can bring you some excitement and amazement from Down Under!!

For første gang må Australia delta i en semifinale. Landet har fått startnummer 10 i den andre semifinalen 12. mai, samme semifinale som Norge deltar i.