After a break of four years, Claudia Faniello is back in the Malta Eurovision Song Contest, and is trying to win Malta’s ticket to Kiev with her song “Breathlessly”. Claudia’s best results in the Maltese finals came in 2008 with “Caravaggio” and in 2012 with “Pure” – both times she finished in second place, while her last attempt at representing Malta in Eurovision was back in 2013 with the song “When It’s Time”.

We had a small chat with Claudia Faniello, where we asked her about come-back to Malta Eurovision Song Contest with “Breathlessly” and the team behind it, the rule-change in the national final, as well as some more personal questions in order to get to know her a little better. Read everything she told us in this interview right here:

Hello Claudia! First of all, congratulations to making it to the MESC final! How do you feel being back in this competition once again?

It feels awesome to be back after four years, and I cant wait to be back on that stage. Especially this year with “Breathlessly”.

Can you tell us more about the story behind “Breathlessly”, and the team who worked on it?

“Breathlessly” was written by a Maltese power-team who have been to Eurovision five times and brought Malta it’s first 2nd place with “7th Wonder”. They have also written “Pure” which so many people loved some years ago, and got me the first runner up position in the local selection. When I heard “Breathlessly” I was extremely taken by this song, because apart from the beautiful lyrics and catchy melody, it has got the one thing that so many songs in the past could have lacked – emotion. It touched me so much, and I really believe this is what takes “Breathlessly” to the next level.

How are you getting ready for the night of the final?

Well I am blessed to have a team of people around me who work unanimously on the preparations of my performance, whether it’s the outfit, staging or interpretation. This is all so very hectic and fun!

What do you usually do when you are not singing?

I like to travel. It’s my greatest passion after music. Also, it’s imperative for me to spend time with my closest friends and loved ones. I am lucky to be surrounded by a number of genuine people who make my life so much prettier.

What do you think of the rule change in this year’s MESC, that only the public will pick the winner?

I’ve experienced this rule in previous years. We are representing our nation, so why not allow the same people to chose who they want to be represented by.

Why should you be the one to represent Malta in Kiev this year?

I’m someone who is seeking for inspiration and inspiring other people with my music. Being selected to represent Malta would be a great honour, also because I believe in my song very much.

We also have a couple of questions for you just to get to know you a little bit better. What would be your favorite book?

The Secret.

Favorite movie?

Dirty Dancing.

Your own signature dish?

Moussaka

What would you bring to a desert island?

My dog Leila

Your ideal duet-partner would be?

Dave Grohl

The last song you listened to was…?

“Breathlessly” – I was practicing hehe

Thank you very much for your time Claudia, and we wish you the very best of luck at the MESC Final!

If Claudia Faniello is your personal favorite in the Maltese selection this year, you can vote for her song in our poll here:

Give a listen to Claudia Faniello’s entry “Breathlessly” right here: