It’s the week of “Pesma za Evroviziju 23”. The semi-finals of the show are scheduled for Wednesday 1st and Thursday 2nd of March while the final is set to take place this Saturday, 4th of March. Eight acts will advance from each semi-final and ahead of those we had a chance to talk with Ivona who will be competing as 11th act of the second semi-final. Ivona is a singer who already took part at last years edition of “Pesma za Evroviziju” with the song “Znam” she ended on 12th place in the final of the show. You can find out what she told us about her entry “U noćima” below.

Hello Ivona, first of all I would like to congratulate you for being selected for Pesma za Evroviziju 2023. How does that feel and what made you decide to return to  the show?
Thank you! I feel excited, this year is also very unpredictable!

I just felt like I have a right song for Eurovision and UK stage. Techno and house, fresh sound, song that requires strong speakers and big crowd. I just followed my intuition so we’ll see.

Last year you took part with the song “Znam” and ended on 12th place in the final. What have you learned through your participation at the show and in which way will the previous experience help you achieve the best possible result at this year’s PzE?
Well definitely to enjoy the process and have fun! I mean last year I did the same but there is always little bit of tension and stress while working but the most important part is to stay grounded and share good vibes.

How did “U noćima” came to life and what does it mean to you?
I always wanted to create a song that I can hear at night clubs and festivals since I listen to this genre mostly when I go out and also techno and house dj’s like Zhu or Peggy Gou. I created this song almost two years ago and I felt that this the right time for her. Also, summer is near, we need a banger!

Your last year’s entry “Znam” you firstly wrote in English as “Tell Me You Love Me” do you plan to make an English version of “U noćima” or to sing any of your future songs in English?
Hell yeah!

What can we expect from your performance? Can you give us a hint?
Moods, colors, night hunting me and me behaving sensual and free

Where do you find inspiration for the music you create?
I find inspiration every time when I am alone in my bedroom. That the magic place that opens my soul and studio ofc but I am creative when I am alone so I need a lot of “ my time “. I guess that’s the main reason why I go to sleep so late and desperately try to fix my sleep schedule.

Do you have any music role models?
My role model is not a musician, it’s Novak Djokovic. I believe it is clear enough why.

Do you watch Eurovision regularly, if so would you like to share a memory which you have of it or a favourite song from the contest?
Oh yes I do, I am the huuuuge fan! I actually discovered that I can sing when Marija Serifovic won the Eurovison back in 2007. That’s the moment my journey started. One of the favourite songs from ESC is Loreen from Sweeden with Euphoria!

If you had a chance to make a duet with any Pesma za Evroviziju /Eurovision participant, who would you choose?
My loving friend Boris Subotic and from this years PZE also Dzipsi

What are the three things you never leave your house without?
Car keys; Wallet; Earpods

What do you do when you are not singing or creating music? Any hobbies?
I cook! I love food so much hahaha it’s art! And I always discover new restaurants! My dream job is to travel and try every food that exists! Lol! I love to dance, I love horse riding too!

What are your plans after Pesma za Evroviziju 2023?
I will release song that was in option also for this years PZE sooo stay tuned! #Moltobello

You can listen to “U noćima”  by Ivona below:

If Ivona is one of your favorites at Pesma za Evroviziju 23, make sure to vote for them and your other favorites in our poll right here:

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