London Greek Radio

Cyprus Returns to Junior Eurovision with ‘Crystal Waters’ by 11-Year-Old Maria Pissarides

Cyprus is thrilled to announce its exciting return to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest after seven years, represented by 11-year-old Maria Pissarides and her dynamic, rhythmic pop song ‘Crystal Waters’. Written and composed by singer-songwriter Sophia Patsalides (Cyprus’ Junior Eurovision 2014 representative), alongside Swedish producer Armin Highmøre Gilani and Maria Pissarides herself.

‘Crystal Waters’ is an energetic, feel-good song that highlights the beauty of nature and the power of friendship. ‘Crystal Waters’ blends upbeat rhythms with a catchy dance tune. With imagery of the sun, clear blue seas, and a strong sense of unity, the song encourages listeners to cherish both their friendships and the world around them. ‘Crystal Waters’ is a celebration of harmony, joy, and the strength found in togetherness. Its vibrant energy and rhythmic pop sound are certain to resonate with young audiences across Europe.

Maria Pissarides, with her bright and lively vocals, brings this rhythmic song to life, making it an unforgettable track. The song marks Cyprus’ 10th entry in the Junior Eurovision, and it has already surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube, winning the hearts of young and mature across Europe with its irresistible beat.

“We invite you to support Maria Pissarides’ participation and Cyprus’ return to Junior Eurovision.” (CyBC)

The competition will take place on Saturday, 16 November 2024 and the Cyprus entry is song #5. The Live Show starts at 17:00 GMT or 18:00 CET. You can watch the live show on the #JESC YouTube channel.

All viewers in participating and non-participating countries alike can vote using the official Eurovision App or go directly to JESC.tv. Both App and website will provide the correct voting method for all eligible countries automatically.

There will be two rounds of voting for you to take part in:

Vote 1: Online Voting will open at 20:00 GMT on Friday, 15 November 2024 and close on Saturday 16 November 2024 at 16:59 GMT, just before the live show starts. In order to be able to vote, voters need to watch a recap compilation from the rehearsal, and also have the possibility to watch preview videos of the participating songs.

Vote 2: Online Voting will open after the last song has been performed during the live show. Voting will close approximately 15 minutes after. Voters will vote on the basis of the songs as performed during the live show.

London Greek Radio wishes Cyprus and Maria Pissarides the best of luck at the competition.

Article written by London Greek Radio

Cyprus Returns to Junior Eurovision with ‘Crystal Waters’ by 11-Year-Old Maria Pissarides

Cyprus is thrilled to announce its exciting return to the Junior Eurovision Song Contest after seven years, represented by 11-year-old Maria Pissarides and her dynamic, rhythmic pop song ‘Crystal Waters’. Written and composed by singer-songwriter Sophia Patsalides (Cyprus’ Junior Eurovision 2014 representative), alongside Swedish producer Armin Highmøre Gilani and Maria Pissarides herself.

‘Crystal Waters’ is an energetic, feel-good song that highlights the beauty of nature and the power of friendship. ‘Crystal Waters’ blends upbeat rhythms with a catchy dance tune. With imagery of the sun, clear blue seas, and a strong sense of unity, the song encourages listeners to cherish both their friendships and the world around them. ‘Crystal Waters’ is a celebration of harmony, joy, and the strength found in togetherness. Its vibrant energy and rhythmic pop sound are certain to resonate with young audiences across Europe.

Maria Pissarides, with her bright and lively vocals, brings this rhythmic song to life, making it an unforgettable track. The song marks Cyprus’ 10th entry in the Junior Eurovision, and it has already surpassed 100,000 views on YouTube, winning the hearts of young and mature across Europe with its irresistible beat.

“We invite you to support Maria Pissarides’ participation and Cyprus’ return to Junior Eurovision.” (CyBC)

The competition will take place on Saturday, 16 November 2024 and the Cyprus entry is song #5. The Live Show starts at 17:00 GMT or 18:00 CET. You can watch the live show on the #JESC YouTube channel.

All viewers in participating and non-participating countries alike can vote using the official Eurovision App or go directly to JESC.tv. Both App and website will provide the correct voting method for all eligible countries automatically.

There will be two rounds of voting for you to take part in:

Vote 1: Online Voting will open at 20:00 GMT on Friday, 15 November 2024 and close on Saturday 16 November 2024 at 16:59 GMT, just before the live show starts. In order to be able to vote, voters need to watch a recap compilation from the rehearsal, and also have the possibility to watch preview videos of the participating songs.

Vote 2: Online Voting will open after the last song has been performed during the live show. Voting will close approximately 15 minutes after. Voters will vote on the basis of the songs as performed during the live show.

London Greek Radio wishes Cyprus and Maria Pissarides the best of luck at the competition.

Article written by London Greek Radio

Helena Paparizou will announce Greece’s 12 points! 

Greece’s Eurovision winner Helena Paparizou will be the spokesperson announcing the Greek jury’s 12 points on Saturday night at the Eurovision Song Contest Finale live at Malmö Arena.

Helena appeared on Thursday nights second semi-final and wowed the arena with a live rendition of “My Number One” during the sing-along medley. We admit to feeling teary eyed with the victorious Eurovision song still sounding as fresh and exciting as ever.

Born and raised in Sweden, Paparizou commanded the stage with her solo act, busting a few Greek dance steps and yelling “Opa!” to the crowd’s delight.

The interval act also featured former Eurovision winners Sertab Erener (Turkey 2004) and Charlotte Perrelli (Sweden 1999).

Greece’s Eurovision entrant Marina Satti with the ethno-banger “ZARI” (Greek word for = dice) went through on the night. Both Helena and Marina at the semis, lady luck, rolling out a couple 6’s at the Greek’s bequest.

Fun fact also, the “My Number One” co-writer is the iconic Christos Dantis, who’ll be headlining our Greekology event in July alongside former Cypriot Eurovision star Konstantinos Christoforou.

Helena has an inextricably close bond to Eurovision: in 2001 she was one-half of Antique with “Die For You”, finishing third in Copenhagen.  In 2005, she won the contest in Kyiv and welcomed the world to Athens in 2006. In 2021, Paparizou participated at the “Rock The Roof” party in Rotterdam, in The Netherlands.

Helena who celebrates a 25-year milestone in the music industry, recently released the ultimate “club banger of 2024”. The single “Mavra Gialia” is now on the LGR playlist and fast-tracked to become a mega hit this summer.

She is also soon set to release her eleventh-studio album later this year, mixing pop, dance-floor-rhythms, R&B and the ethnic motif.

Pic (credit): Tryfonas Nakis

Marina Satti unleashes infectious vibes with “ZARI”, Greece’s 2024 Eurovision Entry

Article written by Tony Neophytou

“The Greek instrument of the zournas standing out in the mix. It makes “ZARI” powerful and exciting”.

As Eurovision excitement heats up, Marina Satti’s “ZARI” (Greek word for = dice) is set to take the stage at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Sweden at the Malmö Arena.

Satti will perform in the second semi-final tonight batting for a place at the final on Saturday.

The Eurovision hit song “ZARI” mixes traditional Greek melodies with a modern template. The up-tempo Greek banger feels current and on-trend with Greek music and local charts. It is a unique and original song with a mix of avant-garde and mainstream sounds. It blends ethno-pop with pop-laika, tsifeteli and hip-hop which is very modern and current.

The Greek delegation at Eurovision is setting out to rejuvenate the nation’s fortunes with this entry with a hopeful top 10 finish like classic 00s and 10s’ entries: Songs that were always catchy, super-fun and felt like genuine Greek songs.

Instantly triggering recognition as a Greek song, with the tabla percussion and the zournas standing out in the mix, “ZARI” is both powerful and exciting. It is catchy, contagious and addictive, claims our Eurovision man. It is a production with a strong bassline that reverberates when the volume is turned up full notch with the Ta-Ta-Ta vibrating through the floor at the LGR studio.

Tony Neophytou LGR’s ‘Eurovision fanatic’ says, “Satti is the experimental singer-songwriter and ZARI is a weird and wonderful song. It is brimming with Satti’s personality a little on the ‘brave, bold and brilliant’ side, is the eclectic Eurovision song and not too unlike her hit song “Tucutum” from last year.”

“ZARI” has an elevated ethno female bop with the eclectic Satti style we know, distinctive as a Greek-language song with a true cultural identity, Mr Neophytou views.

“The multiple hooks and a super lush, sumptuous bass are driving a strong song, with the syncopated rhythm demanding your attention. The woah moments and the most unexpected twists and turns have a captivating feel and it’s like a smack or a hit in the gut.” Tony adds. The hook is the useful asset a Eurovision song requires to create a strong impression.

Her closest allies whittled down through 150 songs before landing on this “competitive song” that stands on its feet, as a stage and TV-alluring package. “ZARI” is a hot-take of a Eurovision-engineered song, Satti says.

It is gutsy like lady luck with a dice roll and a fresh track shaking things up. A risky song, it’s like different sides of a zari, or dice, with layers and parts each congruent to each other. This sounds much better on repeat noticing the intricate details in the song. It’s the sort of song “to marinate on all the aspects it stitches together as a studio cut, it’s like a Greek spice with seasoning and feeds our appetite” our LGR ‘man’ says.

“ZARI” mixes up-beat and melancholic vibes – the quieter parts feel introspective. A creeping bass line and subtle drums provide a backdrop for Satti’s head-voice intro that quickly builds up to a fast tumba beat with a climax that feels exhilarating.

Satti blends groovy feels and airy vocals with its crowd-pleasing song. It is mostly sung in Greek, with the “put your hands up” verse switching up with a sweet urban spot.

The studio song is a club and radio-friendly hit for sure. The staging of the performance will be elevated with unique urban visuals and aesthetics with on-point vocals.

A 30-second teaser of the Greek staging is presenting a cohesive stage concept. The long, continuous shot focusses on Satti and the dancers whilst she looks into the camera to connect with the audience. The staging is bright, well-lit with neon colour palette, graffiti graphics and the floor alternates to blue with a nod to the Greek flag. They then pull-out handkerchiefs for a routine to the syrto and kalamatianos, which feels very Greek.

The official music to “Zari” had the quick cuts through the streets of Athens to add to the up-beat vibe to this song. “I am curious at the staging for this and how it channels the infectious vibe to the stage.” Mr Neophytou adds.

Satti’s team is made up of Creative Director Fokas Evangelinos, Mecnun Giasar (Majnoon) is the choreographer, and art direction by NMR.

Satti will perform with four dancers – Huso Cetintas, Vassilis Karagiannis, Yasin AO and Eirini Damianidou. Her backing-vocalist is Erasmia Markidi.

“Zari” was composed by Satti, OGΕ, Nick Kodonas, Kay Be, Jay Stolar, Gino The Ghost, and Jordan Palmer, with lyrics penned by VLOSPA, OGΕ, Satti, and Solmeister.

The official music video had taken a rather quirky slant poking fun at the perceived stereotypes of Greek people and its aesthetics are TikTok-inspired.

“Zari” since its release has smashed stream numbers and gone super-viral. Marina is only the with second female artist ever since Eleni Foureira to top the Greek Spotify chart.

The track released on digital and streaming services hit 10.000.000 streams on Spotify, gaining double platinum one month after its release. The music video surpassed 11 million views, a record-breaking statistic for a Greek Eurovision entry.

Fun trivia also, Greece have a lucky streak at Eurovision in Malmo, with Top 5th and Top 6th finishes, i.e. Koza Mostra featuring Agathonas “Alcohol is Free” (2013), and Cleopatra “Olou Tou Kosmou I Elpida” (1995), to be exact.

Luck, be a lady at the Eurovision semi-final tonight. Satti is rolling a couple of 6’s smashes the tele-vote and qualifies. Satti performs #3 in the running order of 16.

London Greek Radio wishes Greece and Marina Satti the best of luck at the competition.

Article written by Tony Neophytou

Tonight Cyprus compete at the Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Final 1, which airs at 8pm BST. The song, which will be performed by 17-year-old Australian born Cypriot-Greek rising star Silia Kapsis, will be flying the flag high at Malmö with “Liar”.

Cyprus have a couple of acts, one from 2018, namely Eleni Foureira she will sing a minute-version to “Fuego” opening the semi-finals this year. The current Cypriot act Silia will be immediately on next, song #1!

CyBC made the official announcement last September with Kapsis’ song written by Greek songwriter, composer, and producer Dimitris Kontopoulos, well-known in Eurovision circles. He also collaborates on the track with lyricist Elke Tiel.

The up-tempo Cypriot entry “Liar” is a dance-pop banger, addressing themes of misplaced trust, deception, self-worth, and truth in a world of fake news and lies.

A well-made, radio-friendly and catchy Eurovision number, it is a bombastic production with nice brass elements; the song’s intro siren captures the attention. It ebbs and flows with the punchier bass and a climatic dance break is a strong dynamic to the track.

Silia is a super-talented singer, dancer, and actress, making up a solid Eurovision entrant and will be very promising for Cyprus’ chances. The CyBC hierarchy believe that the singer is the perfect entrant for this year’s contest.

Cyprus has big ambitions for this year’s contest, bringing on board renowned choreographers Kelly Sweeney and Guy Groove including Cypriot creative Charis Savvas.

Cyprus’ official music video “Liar”, the country’s Eurovision promo for this year’s contest, was released on 29th February. Silia is the star of the music video directed by Kostas Karydas, filmed at the City of Dreams Mediterranean hotel in Limassol. It teases her strength as a skillful mover, for the much more elaborate stage routine later at the contest for this song.

The self-aware nods to Silia and her “Liar”, through lyrics “Shoulda known that you are a liar, but I looked the other way”, is coupled with a fearless look, she’s got the sass and power to live her truth.

The CyBC Eurovision page explains the concept. “In the said video… we see through the eyes of Silia Kapsis a series of oppressive situations that a fake world and the negative side of social media often impose. In the second part of the music video, we see Silia Kapsis reacting to these situations, rocking the boat and daring to live her truth while at the same time inspiring others to follow her in a celebration of liberating oneself from such lies.”

LGR’s ‘Eurovision fanatic’ Tony Neo said: “Silia is a likeable soul and a promising act. She is a youthful, exuberant, exciting, and emphatic lively dancer. She’s skillful at urban street dance which is current and now. The hints from her music video to Liar suggest she possesses the skills-set and assets which an energetic Eurovision song requires. Her stage presence and charisma which no doubt help to elevate this song. We’ve been following Silia since last year and we are excited to finally hear the song!”

Silia is simultaneously singing and dancing and her four dancers are all Danish with Theo B. Koefoed, Thomas Hegnet, Sebastian Laurentius Nielsen and Martin Daugaard. The stage concept is imagined by Guy Groove and Kelly Sweeney, while Charis Savvas is in charge of the rehearsal in Athens. Her vocal coach is Victoria Chalkitis, known to work with artists for the big occasion.

Cyprus‘s staging is of well-known Eurovision Creative Director Dan Shipman of Black Skull Creative working alongside Martin Dietmann.

“I have my fingers crossed for the song’s chances. It feels as though a visually captivating treat is on-the cards,” Mr. Neophytou says.

Cyprus competes in Semi-Final 1 at Malmö Arena on Tuesday night the 7th of May at 8pm on BBC 1. Silia performs in slot #1 in the running order of 15.

The Eurovision Final takes place on Saturday 11th May, on BBC 1 and London Greek Radio wishes Silia and Cyprus the very best of luck in the competition.

Btw, UK is tele-voting nudge, nudge, wink, wink… not that we’re hinting don’t you know

Follow Silia Kapsis on instagram at: @silia_kapsis.

Article written by Tony Neophytou

As Eurovision season gears up, Cyprus have finally revealed the song title for their upcoming entry at this year’s contest. The song, which will be performed by 17-year-old Australian born rising star Silia Kapsis, will be flying the flag high at Malmö with “Liar”.

Vasiliki ‘Silia’ Kapsis was born in Sydney to Cypriot singer Giorgos Kapsis and Greek lawyer and former dancer Despina “Rebecca” Saivanidis from Thessaloniki.

CyBC made the official announcement on 25th September 2023 by stipulating Silia Kapsis’ song is written by Dimitris Kontopoulos, a Greek songwriter, composer, and producer, well-known in Eurovision circles. He also collaborates on the track with lyricist Elke Tiel.

The up-tempo Cypriot entry “Liar” is being teased as a dance-pop banger, addressing themes of misplaced trust, deception, self-worth, and truth in a world of fake news and lies.

Silia is a super-talented singer, dancer, and actress, making up a solid Eurovision entrant and will be very promising for Cyprus’ chances. The CyBC hierarchy believe that the singer is the perfect entrant for this years contest.

Cypriot chiefs confirmed choreographers Kelly Sweeney and Guy Groove shall be crafting the lively choreography. The involvement of the Los Angeles creatives highlights their ambition to impress at the competition.

Kelly Sweeney is a professional dancer and choreographer with an impressive track record of collaborations. She was lead choreographer for NBC’s Dancing with Myself with Shakira, Nick Jonas, and Liza Koshy, Fox’s So You Think You Can Dance and ABC’s Dancing With the Stars, and for the Troll Movie by Dreamworks.

Guy Groove is a professional choreographer, dancer, teacher and creative director whose acclaimed career includes TV shows such as The Middle, The Goldbergs and Crazy Ex-Girlfriend. He has also choreographed for Nickelodeon’s JoJo Siwa, and worked on The Kids Choice Awards, Slime Fest, Halo Awards, Live with Kelly and Ryan, and many other major performances for major shows.

Meanwhile, Silia has recently flown to Los Angeles for the first rehearsals. This month, she arrived in Cyprus to shoot the video clip for her official Eurovision “Liar” song. The music video, directed by Kostas Karydas, was filmed in Limassol during her location at the City of Dreams Mediterranean hotel. Elsewhere, SIlia will be back in Athens to step up the rehearsals, with vocal coach Victoria Halkiti.

Adding to the excitement, Silia has recorded the final version of her Eurovision song. The date for the release of the song has not yet been specified for listeners, but it leaves fans in eager anticipation.

LGR’s ‘Eurovision fanatic’ Tony Neophytou said: “In Silia we have a likeable soul and a promising act. Without knowing the song just yet, we know that Silia is a youthful, exuberant, energetic, emphatic, lively dancer, these traits which help the upbeat song. Her Tik Tok videos are next level, she’s skilful at the urban street dance which is current and very now. Silia impresses with the skills-set and assets which a Eurovision song requires. It’s all positive vibes, we’ve been following the young Silia since last year, and are excited to hear the song!”

“The all singing-dancing combo, Silia has the potential to bring her x-factor stage craft to this act.

“I have my fingers crossed it will be a strong pop tune, that is dynamic and edgy enough to do very well. Eurovision competitive song-wise. It feels as though a visually captivating treat is on-the cards,” Mr. Neophytou says.

I’d like to say on-air: Silvia Kapsis’ super-slick staging helps to elevate our Cypriot “Liar” on the Eurovision stage.”

Cyprus has a lot of potential with the creative package they’ve got which bodes well for Cypriot chances for sure.

Follow Silia Kapsis on instagram at: @silia_kapsis.

Cyprus competes in Eurovision Semi-Final 1, on Tuesday 9th May at 8pm GMT. The Top 10 are tele-voted through to the Final on Saturday 14th May at the Malmö Arena in Sweden.

London Greek Radio wish Silia Kapsis and Cyprus the very best of luck in the competition.

Picture: @monseeworld

February 2024

Cyprus confirms Silia Kapsis as Eurovision 2024 Singer (ARTICLE)

Article written by Tony Neophytou

Marina Satti, renowned Greek singer/songwriter, is set to represent Greece at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Sweden at the Malmö Arena. The 36-year-old Greek artist, born and raised in Heraklion, is the daughter of a Cretan mother and a Sudanese father.

ERT bosses announced the artist on 25th October that Satti will be their next act at the 68th Eurovision Song Contest, marking the 50th anniversary of Greece’s first participant in 1974.

The song has not yet been chosen as the final song is yet to be chosen, but will be distributed by ERT and Marina’s record label, Golden Records and Minos EMI (a Universal Music Company). From 25th October, writers were invited to submit songs (in accordance with Eurovision Song Contest rules) for Satti by email with the deadline just passing on December 1st.

Satti is a singer/songwriter with roots in alternative ethnic, merging Greek, Balkan, and Middle Eastern influences. She mixes traditional and ethnic elements with pop and urban, hip-hop rhythms and electronic and is one of Greece’s most exciting artists today.

In terms of a Eurovision song Marina is favouring an ethnic modern song that is very relevant and cultural. She hinted that it will be an effective and intuitively catchy song for the Eurovision fan-base and wishes it to resonate with both young Greeks and peers of her generation.

Satti told Greek TV, “I believe a Eurovision entry should champion the culture of the country it represents” (translated). Furthermore, Satti wishes to smash through stereotypes about Greek music by illustrating Greek music can be both diverse and alternative yet still appeal to a wider audience. Her statement reveals that it will be an innovative Eurovision song with cultural and ethnic traits.

The OGAE Greece website, the official Greek fan-site for Eurovision on the selection of Marina, stated that Greece is reinventing its Eurovision identity by reverting back to the ethnic formulae of past years. Ogae said: “Greece re-defines its Eurovision identity by reverting back to its ethnicity roots and heritage.” Furthermore they stated: “On the 50th year of Greece’s Eurovision participation at the contest, the country is precipitating a change in momentum and recreating the Greek and ethnic formula which served them well in the contest for many years.” (translated).

Interestingly, Greece have always gained strong results whenever the contest was held in Malmö, particularly when sending ethnic-conscious songs: with a Top 5th and Top 6th finish for Kleopatra (1992), and Koza Mostra feat. Agathonas (2013).

Satti’s biggest hit so far in her career is undoubtedly ‘Mantissa’, a radio friendly super hit on LGR back in 2017, exceeding with over 50 million youtube hits. Other hits have included ‘Spirto ke Vinzini’ and ‘Koupes’, to name a few.

Her successful debut album, ‘YENNA’, was released in 2022. She also released the short documentary ‘FLABOURO’ as well as ‘TOCUTUM’, a song-commentary on Balkan trap, which became viral in the summer of 2023.

Satti holds a scholarship at the Berklee College of Music, with a creative and diverse background in music. She founded Fones, a female vocal group, as well as Chores, a choir of about 200 young talented women.

She also represented Greece in the EBU’s Euroradio Jazz Orchestra with works by Peter Herbolzheimer; singing at the John F. Kennedy Center, in Washington with the World Jazz Nonet; and participating in the a cappella vocal group The Singing Tribe in collaboration with Bobby McFerrin.

The Eurovision Final will take place at the Malmö Arena on Saturday 11th May with Semi-Finals on Tuesday 7th and Thursday 9th May.

London Greek Radio wish Marina Satti and Greece the very best of luck in the competition.

December 2023

Article written by London Greek Radio

Cyprus has confirmed that rising star 16-year-old Australian Cypriot singer Silia Kapsis will be the Cypriot representative for the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest held in Sweden.

Cypriot broadcaster CyBC made the official announcement on 25th September by stipulating Silia Kapsis’ song is written by Dimitris Kontopoulos, a Greek songwriter, composer and producer, well-known in Eurovision circles.

Australia’s Cypriot diaspora will be responsible for the talent for two years in a row, following in the footsteps of Andrew Lambrou, whose entry, ‘Don’t Break a Broken Heart‘ finished 12th at the contest this year.

Silvia is a multi-talented singer, dancer, actress and TV presenter. Her CV looks impressive.

The Eurovision song has been described as an ‘up-tempo dance banger’.

CyBC chiefs felt that the Australian-born Greek and Cypriot singer was right for next year’s contest as the up-tempo song compliments Silia’s full skills-set as stage-performance person.

Cypriot bosses having firmly nailed their colours to the mast, are confident about their chances and believe she is the complete package as a Eurovision entrant.

Silia, who will be 17 by the time of the contest in May, is fresh, youthful, contemporary and her multi-talented skills have the potential to do well for Cyprus at the contest next year.

Next year will mark 20 years since a British Cypriot diaspora act, 16-year-old Lisa Andreas who performed the ballad ‘Stronger Every Minute‘ at Eurovision, finished 5th for Cyprus. With Cyprus’ successful history with diaspora acts, we at LGR think that this could be a good omen as Silvia embarks on her Eurovision journey.

Vasiliki ‘Silia’ Kapsis was born in Sydney to Cypriot singer Giorgos Kapsis and Greek lawyer and former dancer Despina “Rebecca” Saivanidis from Thessaloniki.

Details about her song will be released at a later date.

“Silia is a singer of Cypriot and Greek descent, born and raised in Sydney, Australia. She has been performing since the age of 4, and has had extensive training with elite artists at the top of their respective fields.”

“Silia has been awarded numerous accolades, including the Bobby McCloughan Creative Arts Award (130 Anniversary Award) at Claremont College, The St Vincent’s College Madame Christian Scholarship for Singing and more recently, been a recipient of the Village Nation Performing Arts College Scholarship for an all-round triple threat performer.”

“As a singer. Silia has been the lead singer for the Australian Youth Performing Arts Company (AYPAC) and recurrent lead singer at numerous high-profile events worldwide, including being the solo performer for Hollywood Star, Alex Russell at his exclusive 30th Birthday Event in Los Angeles.”

“Performing however, was just the beginning. Her love for music flourished into releasing her debut song, Who Am I?, which she primarily wrote and composed at the age of 12. Silia then went on to release her second song, ‘No Boys Allowed‘ in March 2023 with her latest song, ‘Disco Dancer‘ being released in May 2023. Her next single ‘Night Out’ is set to release on November 2023.”

“As a dancer. Silia has danced with world-renowned choreographers, performing in their global dance showcases in Australia and the USA, was selected for the ImmaBeast Dance Company in Los Angeles, danced with Stephen tWitch Boss on the Jennifer Hudson Show and was featured in a dance documentary produced by Taboo from the Black-Eyed Peas. Throughout her dance career, Silia has also been awarded numerous awards and scholarships including the prestigious BuildaBeast 2019 Sydney Scholarship.”

“As an Actor. Silia was cast as the lead role, Zoe, in her debut short film, Pearly Gates, has worked on various television projects for Nickelodeon. More recently, Silia has been one of Nickelodeon’s regular Nick News Hosts, which saw her team get nominated for a Nickelodeon Kid’s Choice Award in 2023.”

The Eurovision Final will take place at the Malmö Arena on Saturday 11th May with Semi-Finals on Tuesday 7th and Thursday 9th May.

London Greek Radio wish Silia Kapsis and Cyprus the very best of luck in the competition.

Picture: @monseeworld

October 2023

Article written by London Greek Radio

Well done Andrew Lambrou came a highly respectable 12th out of 26 countries at the Eurovision Song Conest final at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, on Saturday night, the 13th of May 2023.

The Cypriot artist has written himself into Eurovision immortality, with one of the best Cypriot results in the event.

Cyprus broadcaster CyBC confirmed that up-and-coming Cypriot Australian star Andrew Lambrou would fly the flag at the Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool last year.

After weeks of teasing the world with only the singer and a snippet, “Break a Broken Heart”, the Cyprus Eurovision entry by Mr Lambrou was finally released.

We were promised a strong mid-tempo song and Andrew has certainly lived up to that script, releasing his Eurovision music video for “Break a Broken Heart” in March.

The Cypriot song is certainly catchy and a radio friendly number, which has already entered London Greek Radio playlists.

Born in Sydney to Greek Cypriot parents, Andrew learnt piano, and at 5-years-of age he won 1st place in a school competition. He originally sung his way to relative stardom, covering the likes of Evanescence, Harry Styles, Camilla Cabello and Sam Smith.

In 2015, when Andrew was just 17 years old, he finished in the top 20 in The X Factor Australia. This included a stopover in London at the five-seat challenge with his mentor, singing legend, Chris Isaak where he performed in front of music mogul Simon Cowell and pop star Rita Ora.

That same year, he was noticed by Sony ATV and was signed by Maree Hamblion. Since then, he has released a string of singles, “Throne”, “Lemonade”, “Confidence” and “Electrify”.

Next stop, Liverpool. Tony Neophytou caught up with Andrew Lambrou while in between soundchecks and tours of the press circuit at the arena.

Q. You’ve finally made it to Liverpool, and you’ve been rehearsing on the stage, it must be a special feeling, right?

A. Yeah, it really is. It’s so special, to be finally on the stage and to see what it all looks like has been mind-blowing for me. And there is so much anticipation when it comes to Eurovision. Such a build-up and so to finally get up on stage… I could picture it; I could picture all the people in the crowd. And I could picture what I will all feel like special and mind-blowing.

Cyprus will be staged with the help of Austrian artistic director Marvin Dietmann and Ross Nicholson from London’s world-renowned directors Black Skull. The involvement of the Austrian and British creatives highlights the Cypriot ambition to impress at this competition.

A. Yeah, sure did, Marvin and Russ are absolutely amazing at what they do, and I really feel like I’m working with the best in the world and that’s something really encouraging for me for an artist to feel that support, to feel that level of expertise on the team. I can’t fault a single thing that Marvin and Russ they know what they’re doing and for me that’s extremely special because I know I am in great hands.

Q. The Cypriot entry ebbs and flows constantly with a built-up, excitement throughout the song. The visuals are matching the growth and dynamics and elevates the song’s strengths and it culminates with fire-lit stage!…

A. Yeah for sure, I really wanted to build when it comes to the song, I want the end to have built up to a point where it is just the big explosion at the end you know, and I’m really proud of the song and I’m excited to get on stage and deliver that for everybody. The most important things for me are the ability to connect to the song. I want people to feel what I am singing. I want people to feel the lyrics, the passion coming out of my body through the tv screens, to the people in the arena. And if I can execute that plan than I’m over the moon.

Q. “Break a Broken Heart”, why was this the song which spoke to you?

A. It is a big decision when it comes to a Eurovision song, I wanted it to be something authentic. I wanted it to be something I could relate to personally. Because I feel that really shines through on stage and I want people to connect to it. And the song has such a great impact for me it did anyway. When I first heard it and I heard that big Ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh-ooh… note at the start, it just captivated me. And I said ok, what is this song, and then I just wanted to listen to it more and more after that. So when it comes to Eurovision there are so many fans who keep up to date with what’s happening in the Eurovision world, but there are many people who tune in and don’t actually listen to the songs beforehand. They are just ready to watch the show. So, for me I wanted it to grab you quickly and I feel that this song did that for me, so the goal was to do that for the people at home.

The song was written to suit Andrew’s vocal and is a rather vocally demanding song, requiring his full skills as a singer to be on-point.

Q. Impressive vocals Andrew, did you want a song that would actually stretch you vocally?

A. Yes, I did. I wanted a song’s that gonna be impactful and to show what I am capable of on the biggest stage on the world. Although it might be a bit daunting with such a big vocal. I have really worked as hard as I can to make this song really comfortable myself and I feel comfortable at this point, which is great.

Andrew Lambrou delivers an impassioned vocal performance that gives voice to anyone who has felt like at the lowest point. Because of a break-up and lyrics speak of perseverance and strength developed through strength.

The vocals are on-point and sung with emotional intensity and sincerity.

A. Yeah, thank you so much that’s probably one of the greatest compliments I have gotten so far, and people are really loving my vocals, and that all comes down to how hard I’ve been working and practicing this song and feeling as comfortable as I possibly can. It’s just trying to compliment the visuals with the audio.

Q. What is the ambition, Andrew? It’s your 25th birthday in May, what would be a lovely birthday gift, qualification, I am guessing reaching the final? I am sure you will do just fine; you won’t be breaking Cyprus hearts (to coin a phrase).

A. (Laughs) 100% correct that would be the ultimate birthday gifts for me, I don’t think anyone has to get me birthday gifts for the rest of my life after that (laughs).

Q. I’ve been following your Eurovision journey for quite some time, with Australia Decides 2022, looking back on it, do you think that gives you much needed Eurovision experience?

A. Yeah, I believe everything happens for a reason and to introduce me to the Eurovision world and going on to the stage it gave me some experience and it also taught me a few lessons too and now that I am fortunate enough to be in this position now, I am using all the knowledge I’ve got from the past into play now.

Q. There is a minor tradition with diaspora artists in Eurovision, such as Lisa Andreas and Andy Paul, former UK Cypriot acts of past Eurovision editions. What was the reaction from fellow Australians and Aussie Cypriot diaspora to your act?

A. It’s been fantastic, I can’t really complain at all. The love and support I’ve been getting over in Australia from the Greek Cypriot community has been something giving me so much motivation, so I am a very happy man with a big smile on my face. I can’t wait to make as many people as proud as I can.

Q. Was time taken aside for Greek Easter, amidst the rehearsals…

A. I had a typical Greek Orthodox Easter making flaounes and pafkia which is a version of flaouna with meat inside it that only comes from Paphos where my grandparents come from in Cyprus. So, we kept with the traditions, and we went and saw some family and it was really great just to unwind and to forget about things for a minute, and just to spend time with loved ones.

I can see from Instagram you were ‘baking’ flaounas, in terms of keeping up with tradition and culture I heard you love modern Greek music, Laika and zeimbekika…?

A. That’s for sure, at any event you can see me dancing the kalamatiano to all the classics and I’m not as good as my dad at doing the zeimbekiko that’s for sure. My dad is the professional but I’m trying to follow in his footsteps.

Q. What do you think about before a performance?

A. For me it’s about staying calm. To stay calm I think about what is important to me. I think about things outside the Eurovision world, I think about my family, my loved ones, my passion for music, and grateful I am to be here right now. I’d like to take a deep breath and understand I’m here to do what I like to do. So that’s my goal, my little ritual beforehand. It’s all about staying calm for me.

Q. Post-Eurovision, any thoughts…

A. I want to travel, and I want to release more music…

Thank you, Andrew Lambrou and the best of luck, to you and the Cypriot delegation.

The Cypriot star absolutely smashed that performance, absolutely fair play to him!

You can follow Andrew on Instagram @andrew_lambrou, where he already boasts almost 500k followers. Andrew was doing impressive TikTok numbers before announcing Eurovision, now at 700k followers and climbing.

May 2023

Article written by Tony Neophytou

Article written by Tony Neophytou