As the countdown to Eurovision 2025 continues, excitement is building around the annual music contest, particularly for Spain's representative, Melody. Scheduled to perform her song "Esa Diva" on May 13 during the first semi-final at the St. Jakobshalle in Basel, Switzerland, Melody is already making headlines with her vibrant stage presence and intricate costumes.
According to Spotify, Melody's song is a fan favorite in Spain, but she is currently projected to finish in thirteenth place overall. The top contender for the coveted crystal microphone is Switzerland’s KAJ, whose song "Bara Bada Bastu" has garnered significant attention, boasting more than double the plays of its closest rival, Italy's "Volevo essere un duro" by Lucio Corsi. The competition is fierce, with other favorites including the Netherlands' "C'est La Vie" by Claude and San Marino's "Tutta L'Italia" by Gabry Ponte.
The Eurovision festival will officially kick off on May 13, with the final set for May 17. RTVE, Spain's public broadcaster, has announced a special programming lineup to celebrate the event, including a documentary on Melody's career that will air on May 16. The first semi-final will be broadcast on La 1, starting at 21:00 hours, while the second semi-final will follow on La 2 on May 15.
During her first rehearsal on May 9, Melody impressed the audience and her team with her performance. "The sensations on stage have been incredible; it looks super beautiful," she expressed, reflecting on her positive experience. Accompanied by a talented dance crew, Melody aims to embody the essence of a "brave and powerful diva" through her performance, showcasing her vocal prowess and stage charisma.
Her costume, designed by Gustavo Adolfo Tarí, is a visual spectacle that combines traditional Spanish elements with a modern twist. The outfit includes a black dress with ruffles that reinterprets the traditional Andalusian "bata de cola," complemented by a wide-brimmed Cordoba hat. The second look features a black dress adorned with sharp shoulder pads and black gemstones, while her final outfit is a silver bodysuit embellished with over 15,000 crystals, representing the contemporary diva ready to shine on international stages.
Raúl Amor, RTVE's costume designer, emphasized the importance of representing Spanish fashion at such a high-profile event. "This is not industrial or fast fashion; it is handmade, with dedication and detail," he noted, highlighting the craftsmanship that goes into each piece. The costumes are not only visually stunning but also designed to allow Melody to move freely and perform her choreography seamlessly.
As the first semi-final approaches, Melody is scheduled to perform alongside competitors from various countries, including Iceland, Poland, Slovenia, Estonia, and others. While Spain, as part of the Big 5, automatically qualifies for the final, Melody's performance in the semi-final allows Spanish fans to participate in the voting process.
In Spain, "Esa Diva" has resonated with listeners across generations, making it a beloved track among millennials, Generation Z, and baby boomers alike. Despite its thirteenth-place prediction, the song's popularity in Spain indicates a strong local support base.
As the Eurovision excitement builds, Spotify has released rankings of the most listened-to songs in the contest. Apart from "Esa Diva," other top tracks in Spain include Norway's "Lighter" by Kyle Alessandro and San Marino's "Tutta L'Italia." Globally, the top five songs are led by Switzerland's "Bara Bada Bastu," followed by Italy's "Volevo essere un duro" and the Netherlands' "C'est La Vie." The rankings reflect the diverse musical styles and talents represented at Eurovision this year.
Melody's journey to Eurovision has been marked by dedication and hard work, culminating in a performance that promises to be a highlight of the festival. "We have been very focused on the positions, so in the next rehearsal, we will enjoy it even more," she mentioned, looking forward to perfecting her act.
As the date of the contest draws near, anticipation is palpable among fans and participants alike. Melody's commitment to her craft and her visually striking performance are sure to captivate audiences both in the venue and at home. With the stage set for a memorable Eurovision 2025, all eyes will be on the talented artists vying for the prestigious title.
With the first semi-final just days away, Melody's preparations are in full swing. Her performance is not only a representation of her artistry but also a celebration of Spanish culture on an international platform. As she steps onto the stage in Basel, she carries the hopes of her country and the spirit of Eurovision, ready to make her mark in music history.
