Meet the ESCXTRA team! Part 19 – ALESIA MICHELLE

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]This summer, we are running a series of feature articles that is slightly different to the norm. We think this is the perfect time for you (and us!) to find out more about the ESCXTRA team! What is our personal Eurovision story? Why did we want to be a part of this website? What are our favourite Eurovision songs of all-time? How can you get in touch with us on social media? Read on to find out! 

Alesia Michelle

So you may or may not have come across my YouTube channel. I am the “rare” American Eurovision fan. Yes! We do exist. I hail and reside in Washington, D.C. and have been in LOVe with the song contest since 2010. After discovering the contest in 2006— Thank you Lordi, I was hooked. What was this? Why is it so amazing? I am self-proclaimed musical theater survivor so it was inevitable that I’d be attracted to something so amazing.

I am a communication professional who loves to party. A digital strategist, radio personality, party host, and podcast producer I wear many hats. Eurovision fan is a hat I am proud to wear atop my head.
Follow me on Twitter @AlesiaMichelle

Your first Eurovision memory?

I was channel surfing and came across a documentary focusing on metal music and its influence. In this documentary I was introduced to Lordi and their triumphant Eurovision win with “Hard Rock Hallelujah.”

Your Eurovision journey?

My Eurovision journey began thanks to the internet. Streams (both legal and illegal) allowed me to build my knowledge and fascination of the song contest. The only thing lacking was that true sense of community. I was watching. I was following, but I wasn’t talking to other fans like me. Outside of your trite “reaction” video there wasn’t an in depth look into the contest on YouTube. The video bloggers I loved to watch weren’t going to cover Eurovision… I began thinking about whether I should turn my YouTube channel into something a little different.

Why is Eurovision special to you?

After a stint at the US State Department, my love for Eurovision was solidified. Eurovision is by far one of the best diplomatic experiences EVER devised. The fact that countries can come together and compete with the universal langue of music is a beautiful thing. Call me an idealist, but I believe the Eurovision rises above the Olympics when it comes to actually uniting people.

What attracted you to ESCXTRA?

I’ve been blogging about Eurovision for years at this point, but was seeking a home where I could work with a team. I love the way the ESCXTRA is laid out and how they cover the song contest. I am excited to contribute and add my unique perspective to the site.

And finally, your top 5 Eurovision songs…

1. Turkey, Mor ve Ötesi —Deli
   https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A__hliu_9UE
2. Bulgaria, Beautiful Mess— Kristian Kostov
   
   3. Armenia, Jan Jan—Inga and Anush
   
   2. Sweden, Euphoria—Loreen
   
   1. Netherlands, Calm After The Storm—The Common Linnets
   
   The Netherlands really surprised me that year. The simplicity of the staging and tight vocal harmonies has propelled this song to a staple in my car and every ESC playlist I create. Politics was sure to crown Conchita the victor that year and although I cheered her win, The Common Linnets were my personal winner. The lyrics detail a love gone wrong, but a love that remains in spite of the pain.

Stay tuned for the next part in our Meet the ESCXTRA team series. On Tuesday we will meet Matteo! Remember you can share your Eurovision stories with us in the comments section below or via the comments sections on our Facebook page @ESCXTRA. We would love to hear them!