We continue our series of Moldavian interviews with Viola Julea. After performing her song “Light Up” in the Live Auditions of Etapa Nationala 2024, Viola managed to qualify to the Grand Final in 6th place with 43 points.

We had the chance to catch up with Viola, during her preparations for the live performance this Saturday.

Hello Viola and thank you so much for taking the time to answer a few of our questions!

Hello, Sebastian, I’ll be delighted to answer your questions!

What should the readers, who are not familiar with you yet, know about you?
I’ve been involved in music since the age of 7 and it feels in a blink of an eye I went from a childhood dream to pursuing music seriously on stage and off the stage. I started as many musicians do at the National Music Academy. Yet, I could not stop there. I was fascinated by all aspects of music and pursued a master’s in conducting choirs, something I now pursue professionally with a leading choir in the capital. And because a master’s wasn’t enough I took this research adventure further and this year will be defending my doctoral dissertation, in and amongst of course singing on stage.

Who are your musical influences and inspirations?
Oh, where to start… I love artists like Ella Fitzgerald, Sarah Vaughan, Michael Jackson, Whitney Houston. I equally admire Pink, and am enchanted by Billie Eilish. I’m glad you didn’t ask for 1 name only! I could not pick just one.

What has been your best achievement with music so far?
In honesty, I value every success and achievement. The song “Light Up” is currently inspiring me to reinvent myself as I find myself at new cross roads in life.

What was your motivation to enter Etapa Nationala?
The song “Light Up” somehow motivated me to participate in the national selection! We could not help but play with the deliberate
disco style, melody and harmony – they all came together so effortlessly. I believe this song can represent our country this year.

How did you feel when you found out that you made it to the final?
I was genuinely thrilled, although subconsciously, I sensed I might make it to the final.

How was the song “Light Up” created?

There is a story about the effortless nature of how this song came to light. Last autumn (you’re not misreading this – just 3 months ago!), my friend from London (Vica Demici, a well-known poet and author of Century of Love and other lyrics that made it into the Eurovision) wrote to me and said she had just the lyrics for my next song. Her friend, Cat Harling, had just written a poem and she was convinced it is fitting for a song. After listening, I immediately connected to the lyrics, to their harmony. It didn’t take me long to put together the melody – and there you go! The lyrics of this song are so close to me; it’s like I wrote them. However, the meaning varies significantly from what Cat intended.
Interesting, isn’t it? Everyone can find their understanding of the lyrics – that’s its universality! I wonder what your readers and dear listeners might find upon hearing the lyrics.

Do you consider yourself a Eurovision fan?
Of course, I always follow the contest in which my country participates and always support our performers. I was amazed by Salvador Sobral’s song “Amar Pelos Dois” – a magnificent performance!

Finally, do you have a message for all the Eurovision fans out there?
I know that music is salvation! I love music, live by it, and want to convey that to everyone!

Thank you so much, Viola! We wish you the best of luck for the final and hope to see you in Malmö!
It’s been a pleasure to answer your questions and connect with your audience. I wish them all Light Up moments. Thank you for your support!

Check out the newly released music video of “Light Up”: