Estonian national final “Eesti Laul 2016” will be held in March, and the broadcaster ETV decided to publish the participants list as early as possible to let them promote themselves and also to encourage viewers to watch the show. ESCBubble met Mick Pedaja who had a bit of free time to answer our questions! This singer will perform his song “Seis” (“Standing”) in the first semifinal of Eesti Laul on 13th February.

What was your first reaction when you discovered that you will take part in the Eesti Laul 2016?

Actually we were in a sauna with friends when I heard about it. It was a big surprise for me because I didn’t have any expectations about this contest. I was positively surprised.

Can you tell us more about your career and music?

My first solo performance was at the kindergarten. That’s where it started. I became interested in the guitar and studied it for a while at the local music school. During my school years I sang in different vocal ensembles, choirs and also as a solo artist. For the last few years I`ve been doing more instrumental music in a band called Micucu. But in future I will sing more again. We’ll see, what the future brings. Last year I released my first album „Ärgake“ (Awakening) and in spring there will be the next from a trilogy EP called „Hingake“ (Breathe!).

Why did you decide to submit your song to Eesti Laul? What this competition means to you personally?

“Seis“ (Standing) was not specifically written for the Estonian Song Contest. It was just a song about my feelings. The idea to send it to the contest came later. Personally I think that the Eesti Laul is a good way to introduce my music.

What’s the story behind your entry “Seis”?

Some time ago I found a poem written by an unknown author. The feeling and the spirit of those words inspired me to write a song and later also words. The song describes my feeling over some months. It is quite a personal song. The song was published on 12th December and can be found on Spotify, iTunes, Soundcloud and Youtube.

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

Our team is working on the stage performance, with a lot of ideas but at the moment it is a little secret, what I will do.

If you win Eesti Laul, would you like to sing your song in Estonian or English during Eurovision Song Contest?

I like the Estonian language and I’m sure I will do it in Estonian. It is the most beautiful language I know.

Are you the Eurovision fans? What’s your favourite Eurovision song and why?

I’m not a big fan of the Eurovision Song Contest. I think my favourite song over the years is Lena’s „Satellite“. Because it has simple and warm emotions. Makes me feel light and breezy.

Do you think Estonia is ready to host Eurovision Song Contest once again?

Yes, why not!

Finally, do you have any message for Eurovision fans who will watch Eesti Laul online?

I hope my song touches people’s soul and make them feel good

We would like to thank Mick for his time, and also to wish him the best of luck at Eesti Laul 2016!

You can learn more about Mick Pedaja via his official Facebook profile – HERE, check his YouTube channel HERE and listen to his songs on SoundCloud HERE. Mick’s Eesti Laul entry “Seis” can be found below: