The 54th Festivali i Kenges, the long-running Albanian music competition which has served as the country’s national selection method since their debut at Eurovision in 2004 will take place in late December. Last week, the participants were revealed and on the list we can find many familiar names who will fight for the opportunity to represent Albania in Stockholm next year. There are also a few fresh newcomers, one of whom is Dilan Reka who will perform the entry called ‘Buzëqesh’.  Dilan spoke to ESC Bubble about his forthcoming participation.

What was your first reaction when you discovered that you will take part in the 54th Festivali i Kenges? 

When I learned that I will participate at Festivali I Kenges it was like “Ahah you’re kidding right?? No, you’re through!” Omg I can’t believe even now that it’s happening, I am so honoured!

As it’s your first time in this festival, Eurovision fans don’t know you very well. Can you tell us more about your career, music and X-Factor adventure?

I’m only 17 years old. It’s my first time in Festivali i Kenges. Well if I can start to speak about my career I can say that I started to sing when I was two and half years old at a festival in Tirana with two girls. The song was called ‘Eja Eja lulebore’. After that I took part in festivals in Albania, Skopje and abroad. When I was 12 I took part in a recital concert at the Theater of Opera and Dancing for our diva singer Vace Zela. It was such a big thing for me. After that I was on ‘X Factor Albania’ and it was the most super duper hyper mega experience in my life! I finished in 3rd place there.

Why did you decide to submit the song ‘Buzëqesh’ to Festivali i Kenges? Can you tell us more about that song? What can we expect?

The composer Endri Sina asked me to sing this song and I loved it from the first moment. I am sure that you will love it too! It is very fresh and modern and has a beautiful rhythm. For now I will try to do my best and I promise that the best is yet to come!

How are the preparations for FiK going? Do you have any ideas about stage performance, outfits etc.?

Currently I’m working very hard 24/7 . I have my team that is helping me and I’m blessed from God to have my team. The outfits, hairstyle and performance will be … a secret for now! You will find out soon enough!

If you win Festivali i Kenges, would you like to sing your song in Albanian or English during Eurovision Song Contest?

Wow, if I will win I will die so I won’t be at Eurovision! HAHAHA just kidding! I think I would sing in English and we are thinking about English version already.

Are you a Eurovision fan? What’s your favorite Eurovision song?>

I love Eurovision, my favourite songs are “A million voices” and “Grande amore”.

What do you think about previous Albanian Eurovision participants?

The previous Albanian singers in Eurovision were amazing, but my idols are Elhaida Dani and the amazing Rona Nishliu.

Finally, do you have any message for Eurovision fans who will watch Festivali i Kenges online?

Yes, dear Eurovision fans – if you like my performance, support on me on Social Network sites such as on my personal Instagram and Facebook, it’s very important for an artist. Big kisses and hugs! You’re the best!