Interview: Hersi Matmuja talks to ESCDaily

Albania was one of the first countries to choose its Eurovision entry. Later, the song was translated to English. ESC Daily spoke to Hersi Matmuja about her road to Copenhagen.

1. How do it feel to be the Albanian representative in Eurovision for 2014?

It has first been the most emotional moment of my life by far, then, a big responsibility and trust invested in me as a singer. I am working on all the details of this performance, everything that is in my hands to give the best performance I can, because I want to represent my country worthily. It is a big chance for every singer to sing on the big stage of Eurovision Song Contest.

2. You have entered in Festivali i Këngës for many years, what is your motivation to continue entering?

I have wanted to participate on Festivali i Këngës every year, because singing live on a big stage like that is the best way to improve professionally and prove to myself and everybody else that I could deserve to be given bigger chances. Last year, I participated with Genti Lako & Jorgo Papingji with the song “Kush ta dha kete emer”, and we finished third. This encouraged us to participate again, and with the song “One night’s anger”, which we won.

3. Have you ever watched Eurovision before, if so – what has been your favourite singers / entries?

I have started watching it every year since 2004- when Albania first entered the contest. I have a lot of songs I have liked by the years, because I like every song that is authentic of the country that it represents, not only the winners of the contest.

4. The final version of your song has been changed to English. What was the reasoning for this change?

I wanted more people to understand the lyrics, to get the meaning of the song, that’s why we decided to sing it in English. The other reason is that it is a pop / r’n’b ballad, and English fits very well with this kind of music.

5. Can you reveal any staging plans for your performance in Copenhagen?

I would like to, but this phase of the performance is still to be finalised. I want to have a simple performance though, something that would allow the sound to stand out more than the visual part. In the end, it is all about the music, isn’t it?

6. Finally, what would you like to say to your fans & readers from ESCDaily.com?

Thank you for your attention. I would like to thank from the bottom of my heart everyone for being supportive, for the positivity and beautiful words. Hugs!

Hersi Matmuja will perform 6th for Albania in
the 1st semi-final with the song: One Night’s Anger.

ESCDaily would like to thank Hersi Matmuja
for providing us with this Interview.