search
date/time
Yorkshire Times
A Voice of the Free Press
frontpagebusinessartscarslifestylefamilytravelsportsscitechnaturefictionCartoons
Jeremy Williams-Chalmers
Arts Correspondent
@jeremydwilliams
7:30 PM 27th April 2017
arts

Interview: Imri

 
Imri
Imri
Israel's Imri Ziv may be a new name to many Eurovision fans, but those who played close attention will have spotted him at the last two contests - for he was a backing singer and dancer for both Hovi Star and Nadav Guedj, who both finished respectfully high for Israel. Now getting the chance to shine in his own spotlight, we caught up with our personal tip for the top at the 2017 contest...

For those not in the know, tell us a little about yourself...

So my name is Imri and I'm 25 years old, I grew up in a city outside of Tel Aviv and I've been singing my whole life. I was in the school band in high school and worked for an event company as a singer. My big break was when I won a TV talent show called "Rising star for Eurovision" which was a few months ago and got me the honour to represent my country in the contest.

What appealed to you about entering Eurovision?

Eurovision is the biggest music festival in the world and it's an amazing opportunity for young singers who want to start their music career . I've been watching Eurovision since a young age and feel grateful to be part of it.

How did you feel when you found out you would be representing Israel?

I was overwhelmed! The other singers were very good and the competition was close but I kept on believing in myself. The moment I realized that I'm gonna represent my country was epic and it's one of those moments that stay with you forever.

Your song is called I Feel Alive, tell us about it...

My song is about rising up to challenges and achieving one's goals and basically talks about my journey and how I never gave up trying to follow my dream. I feel very connected to it and to the lyrics.

What is the best feedback you have received as yet?

Someone told me after performing in the pre-party in Amsterdam that it looks like I've been doing this for years and I look like I was born to be on the stage . I was flattered .

Have you listened to your competitors yet? If so, which is your current favourite?

I have a few favourites. The Danish, the Dutch and the Swiss entries are my top 3.

Have you spoken to any past entrants? If so, what advice have they had?

I did especially with Hovi Star who is a good friend of mine.

He told me that the most important thing is to try to have fun and enjoy this experience as much as I can.

What is your favourite Eurovision entry of all time?

I loved the Italian entry Grand Amore by Il Volo from 2015 ESC.

What do you hope to achieve with your appearance at Eurovision?

First I want to make my country proud. I hope that after Eurovision I'll start my music career and not only in Israel.

What is success for you in the contest?

To bring honour to my country, no matter what place we will be.

Lastly, if you could duet with one past entrant, who would it be?

Guy Sebastian who sang for Australia in 2015.