Just like the lyrics of his 2023 entry “DGT (Off and On)”, Romania’s Theodor Andrei has been flickering on and off of our news feed screens since his performance in May. Crashing out of the competition with a disappointing 0 points in the first semi-final, the 18 year-old singer was sadly unable to advance to the grand final stage. In recent weeks he has placed Romanian broadcaster TVR under fire, suggesting that their lack of support impacted his ability to execute the creative vision he had for his entry. He has not allowed these events to shake his artistic drive, however – a message that strongly comes across in his new single, “Artist”.
Reminiscent of 90s ballad pop, the soft piano track reveals a new genre within Andrei’s musical repertoire. Where “DGT” is abrasive and hard-hitting, “Artist” is pulled back and vulnerable. Sung entirely in Romanian, it is a heartfelt reflection of the young star’s Eurovision journey from start to finish. The accompanying music video matches the contemplative feel of the song, cutting between black and white news footage and sweeping shots of Andrei at the piano, engaged in the music.
Among the youngest entries of 2023, (second only to Greece’s 16-year old Victor Vernicos), there is no doubting that Andrei still has plenty more to offer to the world of music. “Artist” proves that he is here to stay.
Listen to the track and watch the music video below: