After using the X Factor Malta for the past few years as their Eurovision selection method, in 2022 Malta is going back to their longstanding national final show Malta Eurovision Song Contest or MESC for short. With that comes 22 hopefuls who will all be competing for the ticket to Turin! Over the next two weeks join us for our series of interviews with the artists in the lead up to the show.

Next up its MATT BLXCK, who is taking part with their song “Come Around”!

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David: Welcome back to MESC! You competed in 2018 and then have since appeared on the X Factor Malta. Why did you decide to return to MESC this year?

Matt: I’m a huge fan of Eurovision and it’s always been my dream to be part of the Eurovision world, so any opportunity I can get, I’ll take it haha. Apart from that I believe I have the right ingredients to represent my country in a competition such as Eurovision.

David: This year you’ll be performing “COME AROUND” at the contest. Tell us more about the song, working with the team behind it and why you chose this to be your entry?

Matt: I’ve been producing “COME AROUND” in my bedroom studio for almost two years now and had it mastered with David Grech from SUB Studios who really understands me as an artist. It’s a very personal song and includes live takes of my dog’s chain, sounds and risers I make with my voice and mouth, and a lot of organic elements hidden in the production. I believe “COME AROUND” is the perfect mix between Radio Pop and Eurovision Cheese and truly think that it will stand out in any running order. The song’s message is also very close to my heart as it’s a metaphor for self-empowerment and self-love. It’s reminding yourself, and other, that you are enough and that you are unique for a reason.

David: You now perform under the stage name MATT BLXCK. Tell us more about the story behind that stage name and also your background as a musician and performer. Who are your biggest influences and what inspired you to release music?

Matt: I felt that ‘Mathew Anthony’ was not unique enough and a lot a people were mixing it up with Mark Anthony. Therefore, during the first season of X Factor, Ira Losco along with myself decided to come up with a new flashy stage name that looks cool as much as it sounded. Black is one of my favourite colours and it is the colour of confidence which is why we felt is a good fit. The ‘X’ came in as brand identity, there are plenty of Matt Blacks but only one “MATT BLXCK”, plus the letters look good visually and there is a small tribute to my X Factor journey.

When it comes to influences, musically I follow the lines of Nicki Minaj, Doja Cat, Jason Derulo and Little Mix however, I think I am quite unique as a person and artist therefore I don’t limit myself to one particular style or genre of music, which is why I produce my own material and release my own music.

David: The snippet of your song has definitely made an impact amongst fans! Can you give us any teasers about what to expect from your upcoming performance on stage? Will you be bringing a party?

Without spoiling too much, you can all expect ENERGY, COLOUR and GOOD VIBES on stage for “COME AROUND” and I really can’t wait for all of you to join the buzz and dance along to my tune!

David: Eurovision is huge in Malta! What would it mean to you personally to represent your nation at the Eurovision Song Contest in Turin?

Matt: For me personally, being on the Eurovision Stage is the biggest dream I have ever had. There is literally nothing and no one that can make me as happy and as content. To represent your country in such a global competition is even more exhilarating and even thinking about it gives me the chills. Apart from all that it’s the perfect platform to present my music and my artistry to the world.

David: We like to throw a random question in the mix… if you could be performing any past Eurovision entry from any country, what would it be and why?

Matt: Oh no!!! Haha this is a very difficult question but funnily enough, it would have to be between TOY and Fuego. Both songs filled the arena with such good vibes and both game me chills from start to finish. Both are unique in their own way and I think my music relates to both styles.

David: Thanks for taking the time to answer our questions. Best of luck in the contest! Did you have any message for your fans?

Matt: Thank you for the opportunity and exposure you give us all! As for the fans, remember you are UNIQUE for a reason, and you should enhance your individuality and don’t let anyone mould you down. Always know your worth and stand your ground! Much love X

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The semi final for Malta Eurovision Song Contest 2022 will be taking place on Thursday 17th February 2022  with the top sixteen performances qualifying for the grand final, which will be taking place on Saturday 19th February 2022.

You can vote for your favourites in our poll here!

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