Another week comes to an end and that means it’s New Music Friday! So it’s time to share the best new releases from the Eurovision world. Over the following pages is everything you need to know for your weekend playlists!
Manizha – ‘See-Line Woman’
First up on New Music Friday is Russia’s 2021 representative, Manizha. Since the contest she has continued to use her voice in music, as well as publicly, to campaign for social equality. Not only is she changing perceptions of every ‘Russian Woman’, but all women. In light of this, Spotify has made Manizha their EQUAL Ambassador of the Month. As well as this, Manizha becomes the first Russian artist ever to be included in a Spotify’s Singles release. This platform, which has over 5 billion streams, enables artists from around the world to record new versions of their songs and cover famous classics. Thus engaging with a wider global audience. With her own stamp on it, Manizha updates Nina Simone’s 1964 hit with rap and modern Eastern European flair.
“When they asked me whose song I would sing for the project, I didn’t really think about it: my beloved Nina Simon! For me, she is a goddess. And it is impossible to sing the goddess. Therefore, closing my eyes, I imagined that she was standing next to me, and we were singing together. And throughout the entire work process there was a feeling that it was she who was driving, and not me. Run to listen and dance. It seems to me that you won’t recognize me right away.”
Manizha, (Instagram)
Jeangu Macrooy – ‘Worship’
Next on the list is The Netherlands’ home participant for 2020 and 2021, Jeangu Macrooy. Already he shared his first post-Eurovision single, ‘A Little More‘. Now he’s giving us a lot more, with the personal track, ‘Worship’. There is no mistaking Jeangu’s rich, soul tone mixed within this vibrant jazz beat. All whilst expressing his desire for a physical connection through the metaphors of religion. Later in 2022, a new Jeangu album is on the way.
Tanxugueiras & Rayden – ‘Averno’
Some of you might have noticed this week, that RTVE have put Benidorm on the map for more than just being a popular holiday resort. So what better way to celebrate the success of the Benidorm Fest national final, than with two of its participants releasing a new single! Of course, Galician trio Tanxugueiras and Rayden have much to celebrate themselves, after qualifying to Saturday’s Grand Final. Both sides bring their unorthodox styles into harmony in this rage anthem that explores a dark emotion. Here Rayden becomes an honorary member of the Tanxugueiras sisterhood, as they embrace the diverse spectrums of music and language together.
Stefania – ‘Wait No More’
Nobody likes to be left waiting, especially not on New Music Friday. Which is why Greece’s Eurovision 2021 top 10 star, Stefania recently treated us to her first single of 2022. The Latin rhythm inspired anthem, ‘Wait No More’ is a cheeky take on all the classic first date nerves and tropes. Meanwhile she has recently suggested she would like to return to the contest in the future. But that is something that will have to wait, until Stefania has had more time to enjoy the success of her participation already.
