Netherlands: Pearl Jozefzoon speaks to escXtra.com

escXtra.com had a little talk with Pearl Jozefzoon, one of the participants in the Dutch national final, Nationaal Songfestival 2012, which will take place this Sunday.

Read what she had to say below!

escXtra.com: Hello Pearl! First of all, we want to thank you for taking the time to speak with us. And of course, congratulations with your participation in Nationaal Songfestival 2012!
Could you tell us something about who you are for our worldwide readers?
Pearl Jozefzoon: 26 year old. Singer

X: Could you tell us about your career so far?
P: After finishing my studies at conservatory I started working in musicals for 3 years. After that I joined the talent show called The Voice of Holland. I came in 2^nd place and after that my solo carrier started. I started to perform and tour around the country and since December I’ve been working on my first album. Which is going to be a pop opera crossover album.

X: How did you find out you were one of the six participants in Nationaal Songfestival 2012?
P: They called. That’s what usually happens when you audition for something.

X: Your song is called ‘We Can Overcome’.  What’s the story behind this song (who composed/wrote it, was it written to enter Nationaal Songfestival 2012 or did you decide that after it was finished)?
P: This song was composed by Gordon Groothedde and written by Curtis Richardson. The song was written for the songfestival. I told Gordon I wanted an uplifting song. A song that reaches out to everyone, a message of hope. I also told him what kind of musical elements I wanted. I just gave him the ingredients and he created the song.

X: Could you tell us a bit more about what we can expect from you at Nationaal Songfestival 2012 (performance wise and the style of the song)?
P: The song is a ballad. I can’t really tell you about the act, that’s a surprise.

X: Do you watch the Eurovision Song Contest every year?
P: I used to watch every year, when I lived with my family. It was one most exciting things we watched together as a family.

X: Do you have a favourite all-time Eurovision song?
P: Love Shine a light. – Katrina and the waves , I really like that song because of the melody, it sticks in my head, puts a smile on my face. Also the theme of the song is so positive. I like that.

X: If you don’t win the ticket to Baku, will you continue singing and/or do you have (other) plans for the next year(s)?
P: I will never stop singing, it’s my passion and I’m just starting in my music carrier. I’m also working on my album that will be released in may. From that moment I just hope my carrier will continue to grow.

X: Finally, do you have a message for our readers?
P: Well I would just like to encourage people if there interested and curious about me and my music. To check out my website www.pearljozefzoon.com  You can find me on social media sites. Send me a message, I like to hear from you.