In a much-anticipated press conference at TV-huset in Stockholm, SVT, the Swedish national broadcaster, recently unveiled the impressive lineup for the 2024 edition of Melodifestivalen. The renowned music competition, which serves as Sweden’s selection process for the Eurovision Song Contest, promises an array of diverse talents vying for the chance to represent their country on the international stage.
The competition is set to kick off on February 3 in Malmö, with Lisa Ajax, Elisa Lindström, Samir & Viktor, Smash Into Pieces, Melina Borglowe, and Adam Woods taking the stage in Heat 1. The subsequent heats in Gothenburg, Växjö, Eskilstuna, and Karlstad will see equally formidable artists showcasing their musical prowess, including familiar names like C-Joe, Liamoo, Dotter, and Danny Saucedo.
Notably, Melodifestivalen 2024 marks a departure from previous editions, as it will be the first since 2009 not to feature any former Swedish Eurovision representatives. This shift in dynamics adds an element of unpredictability and excitement, allowing new talents to shine and possibly emerge as the next face of Swedish music on the global stage.
This year’s Melodifestivalen will introduce a significant format change, with a fifth heat replacing the traditional semifinal. The decision to alter the format aims to keep the competition fresh and engaging for both participants and viewers.
The event will unfold across six cities in Sweden, each hosting one of the five heats, leading up to the grand final. The final, scheduled for March 9, will take place at the iconic Friends Arena in Stockholm. Carina Berg and Björn Gustafsson are set to host the festivities, adding their charm and wit to the musical celebration.
Melodifestivalen 2024 holds particular significance as it will determine Sweden’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, which will be hosted on home soil in Malmö. The selected artist will have the honor of showcasing their talent in front of a global audience, with the potential to bring the Eurovision trophy back to Sweden.
The 30 competing artists are:
Heat 1: Malmö – February 3
Lisa Ajax – “Awful Liar”
Elisa Lindström – “Forever Yours”
Samir & Viktor – “Hela världen väntar” (The whole world is waiting)
Smash Into Pieces – “Heroes Are Calling”
Melina Borglowe – “Min melodi” (My Melody)
Adam Woods – “Supernatural”
Heat 2: Gothenburg – February 10
C-Joe – “Ahumma”
Liamoo – “Dragon”
Engmans Kapell – “Norrland”
Fröken Snusk – “Unga & fria” (Young and free)
Maria Sur – “When I’m Gone”
Dear Sara – “The Silence After You”
Heat 3: Växjö – February 17
Clara Klingenström – “Aldrig mer” (Never again)
Jacquline – “Effortless”
Klaudy – “För dig” (For you)
Cazzi Opeia – “Give My Heart a Break”
Gunilla Persson – “I Won’t Shake (La La Gunilla)”
Kim Cesarion – “Take My Breath Away”
Heat 4: Eskilstuna – February 24
Lia Larsson – “30 km/h”
SCARLET – “Circus X”
Albin Tingwall – “Done Getting Over You”
Lasse Stefanz – “En sång om sommaren” (A song about summer)
Danny Saucedo – “Happy That You Found Me”
Dotter – “It’s Not Easy to Write You a Love Song”
Heat 5: Karlstad – March 2
Jay Smith – “Back to My Roots”
Elektra – “Banna maj” (Ban me)
Chelsea Muco – “Controlla”
Annika Wickihalder – “Light”
Medina – “Que Sera” (What will be)
Marcus & Martinus – “Unforgettable”
Final: March 9 – Friends Arena, Stockholm
As the stage is set for Melodifestivalen 2024, anticipation and excitement are building among fans and artists alike. The diverse lineup, venue choices, and format changes promise a thrilling musical journey that will not only determine Sweden’s Eurovision representative but also contribute to the country’s rich musical legacy. With an eye on the future, Melodifestivalen continues to be a platform where new talents can rise, and established artists can reinvent themselves, ensuring that the magic of Swedish music captivates audiences worldwide.
Source: SVT