My Continuing Travels
What a wonderful week this has been! Singers from 15 European nations had gathered for the 20th edition of the International Song Contest in Çesme, Turkey. We were overwhelmed by the Turkish warm welcome and hospitality, and it was a friendly, non-competitive atmosphere from the beginning, especially since some of us artists had known each other. I represented Switzerland (I’m glad you asked…) and was accompanied by my friend, Swiss producer Matthias Heimlicher. Elif Cansu, a bright student from Izmir, was our faithful guide, who did a great job supporting us and translating for us. And she taught us some much-needed Turkish words. I speak a couple of languages, but man, Turkish is something else!
The contest itself was a blast: We performed in an outdoor amphitheatre, packed with around 5000 people, it was a great show that was watched by 10 million people on TV. And I’ll be honest with you: I initially didn’t even want to participate in the contest, but once there, I certainly wanted to reach the Final Four. I don’t know what happened, but I didn’t make it! 
It must have been my hairdo that the jury didnt approve of. Ah well, a bit disappointed, but not a big deal, really. I learnt some important lessons, though. One line in the song “Hide & Seek” that I performed says: “When I lose, You’re still my gain”, and that’s the truth! In addition, I didn’t lose anything as the purpose of this trip goes far beyond our performances. I made friends with so many wonderful people: Turkish locals as well as artists and managers from all over Europe. I learnt to let go of ambition and pride and enjoyed supporting others. I was reminded that sharing life and playing the part that I’m assigned to is important than being first. Not to mention the delicious food, phantastic weather, some beach time, swimming in the Mediterranean Sea and even playing football with locals. It was a week to remember and I truly look forward to going back to this part of the world soon. Maybe next year, representing Serbia? )
PS: the Ukrainian singer Valeriya won, followed by Kazakhstan and Finland.
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