Eurovision 2023: A diverse battle for the crown begins

On Tuesday, May 7, the 68th Eurovision Song Contest was officially underway, featuring performances from fifteen artists. As of Thursday, May 9, anticipation builds for another spectacular entertainment round with sixteen more representatives from various countries set to take the stage.

Representatives from Croatia—Baby Lasagna, Cyprus—Silia Kapsis, Finland—Windows95man, Ireland—Bambie Thug, Lithuania—Silvester Belt, Luxembourg—Tali, Portugal—Iolanda, Serbia—Teya Dora, Slovenia—Raiven, and Ukraine—Alyona Slyona and Jerry Heil found favour with voters at the first semi-final.

Sarah Bonnici has carved out a distinct presence. At 26, the economist gained recognition through training at "The X Factor Malta." With six singles to her name, her Eurovision entry "Loop" explores the theme of love.

Since its debut in 1971, Malta has yet to claim a victory at Eurovision. Could this year mark a change?

Besa Kokёdhima brings "Titan" to the competition, a song performed in English. After honing her piano skills at a music school in Albania, she ventured to the UK, showcasing her talent in the "UK International Talent Contest."

Marina Satti, set to perform "Zari" in Greek, brings a message of happiness and daring. The 38-year-old, an Athens Polytechnic architecture graduate and a Berklee College of Music alumna, juggles roles as a TV and voice actress.

"The Code" comes to life almost a year after its creation at a music creators' camp.

Marie-Sophie Kreissl, or Kaleen, proposes a rave anthem centred around a sanctuary for "outsiders and wounded souls." Beyond singing, her involvement as a creative director and choreographer for various Eurovision entries could pave her way to the final.

Representing Denmark, Anna Saba Lykke Oehlenschlager's multifaceted career spans acting, entrepreneurship, and modelling. Born in Ethiopia, she recently debuted as the lead in "Hair" in Copenhagen.

The French-Armenian duo Jaklin Baghdasarian and Louis Thomas introduce "Jako," a narrative about battling societal norms for women.

Latvia entrusts its representation to award-winning Artūrs Šingirejs, a seasoned artist with a prosperous 18-year career in music.

With an ambitious rock and metal performance, Megara ventures from Spain's national selection to represent San Marino, a participant since 2008.

Familiar with talent shows and "American Idol," Nutsa Buzaladze eyes the final following a near miss in Eurovision preselections in 2017.

Despite the controversy, Eden Golan represents Israel with "Hurricane," switching from the initially proposed "October rain.” With four wins to its name, Israel continues its Eurovision legacy.