Interview: Manel Navarro

For a singer with a chilled out summer anthem as his entry, Manel Navarro is surprisingly one of this year's Eurovision controversies. While he was the winner of jury's vote in the Spanish selection competition, the public voted in their droves for two of his competitors, with Navarro ending in third position with the public vote. However, with the jury and public scores combined, a tie-break situation with Mirela was created. While Mirela won the public vote by a country mile, Navarro was selected by the jury and proceeded to victory. With the selection process behind him, he is focusing his positive energies on Kiev and his hopes of glory.

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

I'm a Spanish young guy, music lover, guitar player... who loves to write music and share my songs with the world.

What appealed to you about entering Eurovision?

My team gave me the opportunity and I said yes immediately. Singing my own material in front of millions of viewers? How could I refuse?

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

It's such an honour, but also a big responsibility. I felt a bit overwhelmed that night, the night when I found out I was going to be representing Spain. But I couldn't be happier. I hope I can make everyone proud.

Your song is called Do It For Your Lover, tell us about it...

It's an anthem to universal love. I think we need more love nowadays, don't you think so? It doesn't talk about romantic relationships. It's about the love of life. Your friends, your country, your family... sometimes we need that extra push of love to go on. I hope this song can help many people realise that's what we need in the world.

What is the best feedback you have received as yet?

I've had so many good comments so far, I'm in a bubble. Ed Sheeran praised my song and my voice. He is an idol to me! So when I heard him talking about me doing well at the contest, I thought I was dreaming.

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

Of course. There is so much talent this year! I love Sweden, UK, Ireland, Belgium... There are many good songs this year, they are all great.

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

Yes! I've had the opportunity to talk to Conchita Wurst, Jamala... they've all given me the same advice: enjoy! Whatever happens, enjoy the moment. And that's what I intend to do.

What is your favourite Eurovision entry of all time?

Wow! Choosing one is tough. I'd say Heroes by Mans Zelmerlow.

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

I hope to make everybody feel Spanish love, warmth and easiness. I hope everyone enjoys the performance!

What is success for you in the contest?

Being able to sing in that big stage, with millions of viewers is already a success for me.

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

Mans Zelmerlow.