Eurovision 2025 is gearing up to be a memorable event as Spain's representative, Melody, prepares to take the stage in Basel this May with her entry "Esa diva." This performance is not just a solo act; it is steeped in nostalgia, as it pays homage to Anabel Conde, who captured the hearts of audiences and secured a second-place finish for Spain in 1995 with her powerful ballad "Vuelve conmigo."
Melody's homage comes as part of the Eurovision organization's initiative called "A Little Bit More," which encourages artists to reinterpret classic Eurovision songs. On April 17, 2025, she unveiled her new version of "Vuelve conmigo," celebrating the 30th anniversary of Conde's remarkable achievement. The event was not just a performance; it was a heartfelt tribute to one of the most iconic moments in Spain's Eurovision history.
Despite the rich history and emotional weight behind her performance, the odds from betting houses do not favor Spain's chances this year. Changes to the musical style of Melody's entry, which diverged from the original winning formula of the Benidorm Fest, have raised eyebrows and led to discussions about potential alterations in choreography and staging to enhance her presentation.
Melody is no stranger to covering "Vuelve conmigo." She previously performed the song in 2016 on the program "Levántate All Stars," showcasing her admiration for Conde's legacy. In 1995, Anabel Conde's performance was lauded for its emotional depth, leading her to finish just 27 points behind Norway, the eventual winner. Her success remains a benchmark for Spanish entries, and Melody's rendition aims to rekindle that spirit.
Spain's Eurovision history is a rollercoaster of triumphs and near misses. The last time Spain took home the trophy was in 1969, when Salomé won with "Vivo cantando," sharing the victory with the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, and France. Salomé's win, with 18 points, marked a significant moment in Eurovision history, but it was Massiel's earlier triumph in 1968 with "La, la, la..." that set the stage for Spain's early successes, achieving a remarkable 29 points.
However, since then, Spain has experienced its fair share of disappointments. Anabel Conde's second place in 1995 is often celebrated by fans, as is Karina's commendable second place in 1971. The wait for another podium finish stretched nearly two decades until Chanel Terrero brought Spain back into the limelight in 2022, finishing third with "Slomo." Her performance was particularly poignant, given the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, which saw audiences rally behind her as a symbol of resilience.
As the PrePartyEs concerts kick off in Madrid's La Riviera, the excitement is palpable. Held on April 18 and 19, these concerts feature a significant number of participants from the Benidorm Fest 2025, with Melody headlining the event. Out of the 16 candidates, 12 are set to perform, alongside special guests like Las Supremas de Móstoles, who expressed their desire to represent Spain in Eurovision back in 2005.
During the concerts, Melody is expected to perform both "Esa diva" and possibly her homage to "Vuelve conmigo," creating an atmosphere charged with anticipation and nostalgia. As the host of the event, she will share the stage with other Eurovision hopefuls, making it a vibrant celebration of music and culture.
Eurovision fans eagerly await the outcome of this year's competition. Will Melody be able to channel the spirit of Anabel Conde and achieve a historic result for Spain? The stakes are high, and the excitement surrounding her performance is undeniable. The legacy of past performers looms large, and as Melody prepares to step into the spotlight, she carries with her the hopes of a nation yearning for a return to Eurovision glory.
The upcoming performances and the homage to Anabel Conde are more than just a nod to history; they represent a bridge between past and present, reminding audiences of the emotional power of music and the shared experiences that Eurovision fosters among nations. As the countdown to the grand finale in Basel continues, one thing is clear: Melody's journey is just beginning, and the echoes of Spain's Eurovision legacy will resonate strongly in her performance.
