Danica Krstic. Serbian Eurovision 2015 National Finalists. Photo : Danica Krstic

Serbia : Exclusive Interview With Danica Krstić before Eurovision 2015 Selection

“Music’s energy and passion can reach the hearts and minds of all persons stronger than any text can,” – Danica Krstić

This week has been a real Balkan week here at Eurovision Ireland! Not only did we catch up with the charming Aleksa Jelić, but also chatted with another Serbian hopeful, the lovely Danica Krstić, to discuss her Eurovision plans. Here’s what she had to say!

Hey Danica, thank you for agreeing to be interviewed by us here at Eurovision Ireland!

Dear James, I am honoured to be interviewed by Eurovision Ireland! You represent the country with the biggest number of wins in the whole history of the Eurovision Song Contest, so the pleasure is mine!

Well thanks very much Danica! Serbia hasn’t done so badly either! They won the contest on their very first try and have also finished in the Top 10 twice – does the thought of following in these impressive footsteps make you nervous at all?

I would say it’s a big task in front of me, Bojana and Aleksa (the other hopefuls wanting to sing for Serbia). Our older colleagues, who are famous musicians and artists with impressive careers, have set the standards that we now need to achieve. It is a difficult and challenging goal, but it motivates us to give our best. The authors and composers of our songs, Vladimir Grajić and Leontina Vukomanović, are great artists and we will try to perform their music on the best way.

Danica Krstic. Serbian Eurovision 2015 National Finalists. Photo : Danica Krstic

What was it that inspired you to start singing?

It’s hard to say that a child at the age of 5 can be inspired to start singing. My parents were members of the Cultural and Artistic society “Abrašević” in Kragujevac, my birth place. I spent a lot of time watching them folk dance and singing traditional Serbian songs. As a very musical person, I began to sing with them. At first, it was a child’s game, but later I began to take it more and more seriously. I finished studying violin at a music secondary school in Kragujevac and this year I’m hoping to start my studies at the Musical Academy, studying ethnomusicology.

Sounds awesome! Now, we all know performing live doesn’t always go according to plan. What’s the most embarrassing thing that has ever happened to you live on stage?

Once I forgot the lyrics of the song. I repeated the same text three times… it was nightmare!

Danica Krstic. Serbian Eurovision 2015 National Finalists. Photo : Danica Krstic

Oh dear! Never mind, it happens to the best of us! If you weren’t a singer, what do you think you would have liked to do instead?

I always wanted to be veterinarian. I adore animals like cats and dogs! However I ended up singing which is my passion

Awwww! We’ll we’re sure glad you decided to sing! Serbia has sent a range of musical styles to Eurovision over the years, from ethno-ballads to turbo-folk. What can we expect from your Eurovision entry?

It should be surprise 😉

Danica Krstic. Serbian Eurovision 2015 National Finalists. Photo : Danica Krstic

Oh, alright then! 😉 Can you at least tell us if you’ll sing in Serbian or English?

I will sing in Serbian. I think songs should be performed in one’s native language, as it represents your cultural identity. The song’s text is important because of the message it carries, but music speaks a universal language. I believe that music’s energy and passion can reach the hearts and minds of all persons stronger than any text can.

That’s an excellent point – and the true meaning of Eurovision! What would being chosen to represent your country at Eurovision in Vienna mean to you?

It’s an honour and also a big responsibility. Some of my biggest musical influences are Jelena Tomašević and Marija Šerifović, both of whom are well-known to the Eurovision audience. Jelena sang in “Abrašević” as well and in fact, my first performance was at her concert when I was only 5 or 6 years old. And if went on to win the contest? Well… I would be absolutely delighted!

I bet you would be! Speaking of Eurovision, what are your thoughts on previous winners? Do you have a favourite winning song from Eurovision?

My all-time favourite winning song from Eurovision is “Euphoria” by Sweden’s Loreen in 2012. It’s a fantastic song! I also love “Rock Me” by the Croatian group Riva. It won in 1989 and was Yugoslavia’s only win as a single state.

Both really great songs! Finally, do you have a message for your fans in Ireland and across Europe?

Yes! Be healthy, happy and beautiful, and of course, enjoy the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest!!

Well thank you Danica! It’s been an absolute pleasure talking to you! Best of luck with your preparation for the Serbian selection event and hope to see you in Vienna this May! 😀

Author : James Scanlan

Source : Eurovision Ireland