Last year’s return of Spain’s national Eurovision selection Benidorm Fest was an undeniably well-pitched move – helping Spain receive their first top three finish at the Song Contest since 1995. Hoping to match and surpass the success of last year’s entrant Chanel and her Spanish pop banger Slo Mo are eighteen entrants with a variety of pop treats. We have picked out our highlights of the class of 2023 who bring an eclectic selection of Spanish musical gems.
Agoney – Quiero arder
Canary Islands heartthrob Agoney has impressed throughout his career since rising to fame since 2017. Agoney’s debut album Libertad reached #1 in the Spanish album charts and the openly-gay pop talent will be hoping for similar success with Quiero arder, his Benidorm Fest entry. Opening with lavish orchestral production, a powerful pop percussion soon slides into the fold as Agoney delivers passionate vocals and conjures up a delicious theatricality. Quiero arder later explores high energy electronic soundscapes that many have come to expect from Eurovision’s Eastern pop entries. This is a smash.
Aritz – Flamenco
Pop newcomer Aritz Arén delights with Flamenco, a seductive guitar-driven gem with a finger-snapping rhythm that blends English and Spanish lyrics. Flamenco has a distinctly Spanish sound in the traditional elements embedded into the slinky ultra modern production. As the pace and dramatics of the track build, Flamenco soars with a sexy swagger and Artitz’s charisma.
Famous Oberogo – La Lola
Famous conjures up a fast-paced party in the punchy introduction of La Lola before the track builds to euphoric highs in a big brash chorus brimming with sharp electronic production and rousing percussion. Smooth yet defiant delivery from Famous draws us into the high-octane soundscape of La Lola which is set to go off live.
Sharonne – Aire
Drag Race España winner Sharonne showcases her powerful vocal chops on Aire, a beautifully dramatic and passionate pop anthem packed with a power and finesse. Sharonne certainly has the star power to help this track shine in a live setting, so we have high hopes that this will be one to remember at Benidorm Fest 2023.
Meler – No Nos Moverán
It’s an anthemic pop number that shines through its male vocal harmonies and infectious chorus. No Nos Moverán packs the positivity and vigour of a track that could set an arena in motion. A big crowdpleasing sing-a-long number brimming with a euphoric power.
Siderland – Que esclati tot
Catalan language number Que esclati tot comes with a sense of high drama and addictive pop sensibilities whilst showcasing a variety of musical textures, with the pop three-piece telling us of the story of two people who love each other but who react in opposite ways to a collapsing world. It’s dramatic, energetic, and quite spellbinding.
Vicco – Nochentera
Catchy melodies and smooth vocals draw us into Vicco’s Nochentera, a breezy and uplifting ‘hymn to happiness and the desire to enjoy life’. With buoyant electropop production and addictive whistles and chants adorning the soundscape, Vicco shines on this delightful cut.
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