After one year break, Armenia is once again organizing “Depi Evratesil” in order to choose the artists and songs for Eurovision 2020. Among the artists competing is Athena Manoukian – she was rumored to represent the country a few times in the past but these remained rumors. She also tried to represent Greece in the Junior Eurovision Song Contest and competed in the British X Factor.

We caught up with Athena for a little chat just a second before the national final, to find out more about her song, and her upcoming performance in Depi Evratesil. Check out everything she told us right here below:

Athena, this isn’t your first experience with Eurovision as you’ve already tried your luck back in 2008 in the Greek national selection for the Junior edition of the contest. How did that experience affect your decision to participate in this year’s Armenian selection?

I always found Eurovision interesting. It’s a competition that brings all countries closer. My decision was not only affected by my participation in Eurovision Junior, but also from all this love and support my fans gave me and still continue to give.

How would you describe yourself as a performer? Are you more of a big diva when you perform, or rather a more down to earth performer?

When I’m on stage, I’m just myself. I give my all, my 100% and my only goal is to transfer this energy to my audience as well.

You’ve been rumored to represent Armenia since 2015 and 2016. Why did you choose to go and try your luck only this year?

I want to make steps only when I’m 100% sure that I have what it takes to do the move. Almost every year since 2015, I discuss with people from delegation but this year all conditions seem to be more than satisfying.

With multiple achievements in the music industry already in hand, what should we expect from your entry for this year’s contest?

It’s gonna be me. I’m going to live the moment to the fullest and make Armenia proud.

You are known for having a lot of experience on stage as a performer. Does this mean we can expect a great choreography on stage for Depi Evratesil?

Let’s keep it a secret. It will be a big surprise for you all haha.

Who’s the team behind your song?

It’s a song written by me and my producer DJ Paco. We wrote the music together, and I wrote the lyrics. DJ Paco, is the number 1 producer in Greece and he truly believed in me, we worked really hard for this. He had the same vision as me and that’s really difficult to find.

What’s the message behind your song?

It’s a dynamic song talking about people’s diamonds, that most of the times are being taken by someone else but the only way for their diamonds to shine is on them. So the actual meaning is that whoever is trying to stop you in the end, the talent and worth you have will be recognized.

Thank you very much for your time Athena, and we wish you the best of luck in Depi Evratesil!

Give a listen to Athena Manoukian’s entry in Depi Evratesil – “Chains On You” right here:

If Athena is your personal favorite in Depi Evratesil, make sure you cast your vote for her in our poll right here: