The third semi final of the Norwegian Melodi Grand Prix is taking place on Saturday, where six acts are going to compete for the three remaining spots that lead to the Grand Final. One of these six acts is MIIA, who is entering this competition for the very first time, and is trying to win over the hearts of the public with the song “Green Lights”.

We had a great pleasure to chat with MIIA about “Green Lights”, the meaning and importance behind the song, preparations for MGP and personal favorites in the competition, and a lot more. You can check out all of that in our interview right below:

Hi MIIA! First of all, thank you for taking your time out for chatting with us. For the very beginning, can you tell us a little bit about your music career so far?

I started out as an artist when I was 14, in my uncle’s studio in LA. When I was 16 I had my breakthrough with my song “Dynasty”, which premiered on Billboard and 5th place on New Music Friday. Since then my music has been heard in many big TV series like “The Kardashians” and “Love Is Blind”, in commercials like one for Samsung, a UNICEF campaign etc. These synch placements have been so amazing and made it possible for me to do music full time. Although, it is of course mostly thanks to my wonderful fans, who have listened to my music for so long, that I’m able to pursue music and really feel how meaningful it is🙏🏽 I was very happy to finally give them new music in 2023, with my self written debut EP “Inner Voices Speaking”, coming back after a long break from music. I finally felt ready, like, the artist I’ve always wanted to be. The journey wasn’t always easy, but I am thankful to myself that I never gave up. I’ve had to work (hard work) on my mental health, which I really took my time to do. And that was what led me back to music.

You mentioned in an Instagram post that your first thought when asked about participating in MGP was – fear. Why so?

Because it is something new! And big! Aaand something I really want to do and to «succeed» with🥹 You know, being an artist and constantly trying to bring out your message, it is a privilege, but also a lot of hard work. So a journey like MGP, I knew it would be huge, but also that I would face many challenges. But that is how we grow, and I never want to skip out on a chance of growing — and reaching out to more people with my message along the way.

What was your first reaction when you found out that your song has been selected for the show?

I was actually asked to participate, so the song was given to me, and I was asked if I wanted to sing it. That was of course an honor! I had to change the song to make it mine, but I am very glad I went for it.

What does “Green Lights” mean to you, and what is the story behind it?

To me it is about the relationship I’ve had (and have) with myself. We humans can tend to hold ourselves back, or let our fears and doubts get in our way. I’ve done that a lot in my life, and I’m trying to turn it around. This song helps me face my fears and find my strength, and trust in my truth. Cuz deep inside I know that I am on my path, and nothing is really right or wrong on that path. I just have to follow my intuition, and have faith in myself.

How are you getting ready for the show?

I’m trying to breathe deeply and take breaks, in between intense rehearsals and many interviews.

There are lots of different artists with different types of music in MGP this year competing against you. What do you think is your advantage over everyone else?

Well first of all, I am me, I am real, and real is good. It might not be an advantage over everyone else, but I do believe it is a strength to dare to just be one self. I need to stay true to who I am, and what I stand for. That is how I live my life. And I am here to spread love, and to hopefully make someone out there feel something!!

What can we expect in your performance on Saturday?

Strength and vulnerability. Just me telling my story with all my heart, body and soul.

Apart from your own entry, which other MGP entries this year do you enjoy in particular?

I think Gåte might be my favorite at the moment!

Which are the things that inspire you normally to do music?

Ahh so many things, but most importantly music in itself! I listen to music all. the. time. :’) movies, nature, people, relations, walks, fans and their stories, and so much more.

What would representing Norway in Eurovision in Malmö mean to you?

It would mean the world to me 🥹 I would be so honored!

Thank you for your time, we wish you the very best of luck in MGP, and we are looking forward to seeing you perform!

Thank you so much!!

Check out MIIA’s MGP entry “Green Lights” right here:

Let us know who YOUR personal favorites are in the third semi final of MGP by voting for them in our poll below:

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