As we edge closer to the conclusion of Latvia’s Supernova selection, another 7 acts will compete on Saturday to grab the final 2 spots left in the Grand Final which will take place on February 24th.

One of those artists performing this Saturday is 23 year old Laura Rizzotto, and we were lucky enough to catch up with her to chat about her song “Funny Girl”

Hi Laura and welcome to Supernova! How does a 23 year old half Brazilian singer/songwriter, based in New York, end up in the Latvian selection for the Eurovision Song Contest?

I have dual citizenship, Brazilian and Latvian. My family and I had made plans to visit Latvia in 2018, for the centennial celebrations, the Song and Dance Festival and to visit our cousins who have moved from Brazil to Latvia. While doing research for our trip, I came across a piece of news about Supernova and decided to submit one of my latest original tunes. I am so glad “Funny Girl” has made it to the live shows. Guess it was serendipity!

Reading your bio, you have had incredible success back in Brazil including opening for Demi Lovato in 2012, you then decided to pursue your Bachelor’s Degree in Fine Arts in the USA, are you actually Superwoman?! What drives you?

Thank you! Since childhood, I have been passionate about music and started to take piano and ballet classes, in Rio de Janeiro. I won a scholarship to attend Berklee College of Music, in Boston, when I was 17, and that opportunity was a turning point in my life. I released my second album in Los Angeles and received a Bachelors of Fine Arts by California Institute of Arts. Afterwards, I moved to New York City, to pursue a Master of Music degree, in Columbia University, which was accomplished in 2017. I found my life purpose in Music and I am driven by this passion.

I’ve been listening to your back catalogue of songs and am slightly obsessed with “The High” right now, but we are here to talk about your entry into Supernova “Funny Girl”, it seems to be a harrowing tale of unrequited love. How did this song come about?

That’s awesome, thank you! My songs are inspired by my own personal experiences. I was playing around with my keyboard with a chord progression I really enjoyed and the “Funny Girl” concept just came to me at once, all of a sudden. The creative process was smooth, effortless and organic. It felt very special.

The song tells the story of a girl who falls in love with her best friend. She always makes him laugh and her feelings are her best-kept secret, until she decides to open up. Unfortunately, it was too late: he had already fallen for someone else. To him, she became only a friend, just a “funny girl”.

I hope the song “Funny Girl” inspires people to be brave and embrace vulnerability. Sometimes we let fear of rejection stop us from expressing ourselves and end up watching life happen from the sidelines. Taking risks is part of the art of living an accomplished life. So, be bold! Turn fear into courage and become the leading character of your own story.

Having lived much of your life in the Americas, do you have any history of following the Eurovision Song Contest?

I am a huge fan of Eurovision and enjoy discovering new acts every year. I love the unifying power of this contest. It brings so many different cultures together to share Music in peace, with only good intentions. Transcending politics and hostilities through Art is powerful, inspiring and much needed in the world nowadays.

It’s a strong selection in Supernova this year, have you had a chance to check out the competition yet?

I have listened to all entries that qualified for the live shows and was very impressed with the top notch level of the music production of many songs.

What are you looking forward to mostly about your appearance on the Supernova stage? Is there anything that you can tell us about how you plan to present the song?

My goal as an artist is bring light to people’s lives through my music. I am so thrilled with this opportunity to connect with the Latvian audience. The staging of my performance will have a retro feel and a mysterious touch.

If you ever get any downtime, how do you like to spend it?

I love spending time with my family and friends, preferably outside, in outdoor activities. I also enjoy reading and watching movies.

What are your plans after Supernova, are you planning on staying in Europe for a while and maybe a tour?

I am currently releasing my third project as an independent artist, which is a collection of EPs called “Precious Stones”, with gems themes. Each EP will showcase a different side of me as an artist. The first one, “RUBY”, was launched last year and has a pop vibe. After Supernova, I’ll be releasing the second EP, called “AMBER”, which will showcase a more soulful side of my music and includes the song “Funny Girl”. Amber is a pine tree resin fossilized through the ages, which is very important to the Baltic culture. My EP “Amber” will be a tribute to my Latvian roots. I plan to perform the new songs in Europe as well.

And finally, the quick fire questions!

What music are you listening to right now?
I’ve been listening to a lot of Latvian artists lately. I’m studying Latvian every day and music is definitely a fantastic learning tool.

What’s your favourite book?
The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak.

What’s your favourite food?
Pão de Queijo! It’s a small baked cheese roll, very popular in Brazil.

Who would you like to perform on stage with?
Bruno Mars and John Mayer

Thanks so much for your time Laura and we wish you the very best of luck on Saturday!

Watch the official video for “Funny Girl” here

Here at ESCBubble we will of course be live blogging the 3rd semi final on Saturday, stick with us for all the action!

Joe and Anne will be  in Riga on February 24th for live coverage from the studio as Latvia’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2018 is crowned

What do you think of Laura’s song? Vote in our poll for the two entries you think should qualify from this tough semi final!