Ellen Benediktson “Songbird” . Photo : Ellen Benediktson Facebook

We had the chance to speak with Melodifestivalen finalist Ellen Benediktson today. The young singer is one of the favourites to win the contest this Saturday with her entry “Songbird”. How did she become involved in Melodifestivalen to her plans for the future – we spoke with Ellen.

How did you become involved in Melodifestivalen this year Ellen?

Last year I was one of the stand in’s in Eurovision in Malmo. Students from my school got the opportunity to try out for this and I was one of the students who got to perform in the arena. I sang the french song L’enfer et moi and I did it so well that Christer Björkman called me in October and said he had a song to me, And here I am now.

We all loved your performance last year of the French Eurovision entry. How did it feel performing on the Malmo stage?

Well, I’ve now sung in the Malmo Arena twice. Once with audience and one time without. Both times was amazing experiences in different ways. This is what I have always wanted to do. It’s an indescribable feeling.

Ellen Benediktson Melodifestivalen Details. Photo : Ellen Benediktson Facebook

What was your initial reaction when you heard “Songbird” for the first time?

For me it was very important that the song felt right and I would have said no – no matter how great the opportunity was. But I felt immediately that “Songbird” was a song I could do my way and make something special out of. It has definetly grown on me and I now feel like a part of it.

Has the song changed since the first recording?

Not really. The unique thing is the simplicity of the song. That is what makes it so special and we didn’t want to change that by trying too hard. The song felt quite finished already in the early stages of it and the right feeling was there.

What does the song mean to you?

For me Songbird is about finding strength in difficult times. When you feel confused and you have to relay on yourself, listen to your inner voice, to make the right decisions.

Ellen Benediktson at Melodifestivalen. Photo: Olle Kirchmeier / SVT

Were you surprised at the huge response to you and your song?

Yes and no. I always believed in my ability to come through to people and I knew I was good at what I do. Though you can never know how things go in competitions like these and I never took anything for granted. Amazing feeling to know that so many people liked my performance and believed in me. That really means a lot!

Are you planning on changing anything for your performance in the Melodifestivalen Final?

No, the performance will basically be the same. I’ve only changed some small details. Otherwise I’m happy with my performance as it is.

Have you had any messages of support or advice from any other Swedish Eurovision and Melodifestivalen singers?

Everyone has been very nice and it’s a very friendly atmosphere. I’m looking forward to get to know them all a bit better, I haven’t met all of the competitors yet.

What is your favourite Melodifestivalen song of all time?

When I was younger I was a huge fan of the Swedish band The Ark, so I ought to say “The Worrying Kind” for nostalgic reasons.

After Melodifestivalen and possibly Eurovision – do you hope to continue recording music and can we expect an album from you?

Of course! Music is my life and I wouldn’t wanna do anything else than working with music. Hopefully this is only the start of my career!

What advice would you give to any young singers that would like to break into the music business?

I think the most important thing is to believe in yourself and to not give up. If you have talent for something you should embrace it and make sure to continue to grow. Then you have to take your chances and hopefully it will be worth it!

Finally – What message would you like to give to your fans and readers of Eurovision Ireland.

Thank you so much for all of your support! Keep your fingers crossed for me and hopefully we see each other in Denmark! Love Ellen

We at Eurovision Ireland would like to thank Ellen for taking the time to speak to us during her rehearsals for the Grand Final of Melodifestivalen this Saturday. We have a feeling that we will be seeing a lot more of this talented singer.

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Author/Editor in Chief Garrett Mulhall

Source : Eurovision Ireland