Claude, a 21-year-old singer, expressed disbelief over his selection for the Eurovision Song Contest during the talk show Eva. He had not told anyone about his candidacy, not even his mother.
Claude, who grew up in a musical family with three brothers and three sisters, was often left at home to look after his younger sister. Despite struggling with vocal control in the past, he now feels ready to perform for an audience of 200 million people.
With guidance from a coach hired by AVROTROS, Claude has prepared for the mental pressure of the event. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) has introduced new measures following last year’s events in Malmö, ensuring more artist welfare.
These include not filming artists immediately off-stage and appointing a safety manager. Cornald Maas, a Eurovision expert and selection committee member, believes the measures will provide a safer environment for participants.
Claude’s song, completed on November 6, remains under wraps but is bilingual. Committee members were moved by the song, with Carolien Borgers and Sander Lantinga praising its potential impact.
Source: NOS