Austria is bringing the energy to Eurovision 2024 with Kaleen, a dynamic performer whose journey is as captivating as her upcoming performance of “We Will Rave.” But beyond the infectious beat and powerful vocals, there’s a layer to Kaleen that Eurovision fans are eager to see unleashed on the Malmö stage: her background as an accomplished Austrian break dancer. This isn’t just a singer stepping into the spotlight; it’s a seasoned dancer ready to electrify Europe.
Kaleen’s Eurovision story is one of dedication and passion. Many may not know that her connection to the contest stretches back to 2018 when she participated as a stand-in rehearsal artist for Cyprus’ “Fuego.” This early immersion gave her a unique perspective, fueling her own Eurovision dreams.
– I also did the stand-in for Saara Aalto and there was this moment right before the high note and before I got into the prop that I thought “this is so much fun, I have to try!” she shared, reflecting on her experience with Finland’s 2018 entry.
This experience wasn’t just about standing in; it was a pivotal moment that solidified her artistic ambitions. From that point, Kaleen focused on songwriting and building the confidence to step into the artist role herself. Her journey highlights the perseverance needed in the competitive music world, especially within the Eurovision sphere.
Her initial attempt to represent Austria at Eurovision happened the following year, but ORF, the Austrian broadcaster, chose Teya & Salena’s “Who The Hell Is Edgar?” for 2023. Interestingly, Kaleen’s Eurovision journey took another unexpected turn as she ended up coaching Teya & Salena, showcasing her commitment to Austrian Eurovision even when not in the performer role.
From Rejection to Rave: Kaleen’s Path to Eurovision 2024
Returning with renewed determination this year, Kaleen secured her spot as Austria’s representative. She openly discussed the sting of the previous year’s rejection, emphasizing the resilience required in pursuing artistic dreams.
– Last year’s “no” was a pretty hard one for me, Kaleen admits. – You never know how it can go and obviously it doesn’t mean you’re not a good artist or that your song isn’t good. As one of my friends said: “it’s not a decision against you, but for someone else.”
This candid reflection offers encouragement to aspiring artists facing setbacks. Kaleen’s advice is to embrace the disappointment, learn from it, and emerge stronger.
It’s not a decision against you, but for someone else
This “no” ultimately spurred her to release her debut studio album, “Stripping Feelings.” While musically distinct from “We Will Rave,” the album reveals another facet of Kaleen’s artistry, showcasing a softer pop sound. This contrast highlights her versatility and willingness to explore different musical styles.
– Both are still me. The music I made pre-Eurovision was mostly written and produced by me and now I am grateful to have people around me who will push me towards a direction I normally wouldn’t go, she explained.
This openness to collaboration and new directions is evident in “We Will Rave.” Initially unsure if the rave genre aligned with her artistic identity, Kaleen has fully embraced the song and its high-energy potential for Eurovision. She sees “We Will Rave” as a perfect fit for her current artistic expression and the Eurovision stage, promising more diverse musical explorations post-contest.
Kaleen’s Eurovision Journey: From stand-in rehearsal artist to Austria’s 2024 representative, showcasing her dedication and passion for the Eurovision Song Contest.
Reflecting on her current Eurovision journey, Kaleen still experiences moments of disbelief.
– It does feel like a dream come true, I still have some moments where I can’t believe I am in a meeting about Eurovision and it’s actually about me!
Despite her previous involvement with Eurovision and ORF, Kaleen emphasizes that she faced no preferential treatment in the selection process. She auditioned like every other artist, highlighting the fairness and competitive nature of Eurovision selection.
– There was no shortcut for me at all. I think it was quite the opposite. – I think because of my involvement with ORF and Eurovision, I had to work twice as hard because no one looked at me as the artist but a choreographer instead, Kaleen says, acknowledging the initial perceptions based on her behind-the-scenes roles.
This underscores her determination to be recognized as a performing artist in her own right, not just as a choreographer or creative director. The rigorous audition process and her eventual selection validate her artistic merit and potential on the Eurovision stage.
When she received the final confirmation, Kaleen’s reaction was a mix of elation and disbelief.
– I was extremely happy and I remember saying: “is this for real? Can I now be happy? Can I look forward?” Yes, I couldn’t believe it but then after half an hour of extreme emotions, I started assimilating what was happening and started booking hotel rooms for my family in Malmö just to be sure they’d have a place, she recounts, sharing the immediate joy and practical steps she took.
This genuine excitement and immediate planning highlight her grounded personality amidst the whirlwind of Eurovision preparations. The leaked audition of “We Will Rave,” showcasing her dynamic performance, further fueled fan anticipation. Kaleen’s positive response to the leak demonstrates her confident and unfazed attitude.
Choreography and Rave: Kaleen’s Eurovision Performance Vision
The leaked audition served as a glimpse into Kaleen’s performance style, hinting at the high-energy choreography to come. As a seasoned Austrian break dancer, movement is integral to her artistic expression.
– People often ask me if there will be a dance break. Well, I like to think that the whole performance will be a dance break. Yes, there’ll be a lot of dancing. I am saving it all for Malmö, she teases, confirming that dance will be a central element of her Eurovision performance.
This anticipation of a dance-heavy performance is particularly exciting given her background as a break dancer. Eurovision viewers can expect not just singing, but a full-fledged, visually captivating spectacle. Kaleen emphasizes that the music video only offers a taste of what’s planned for the live show.
– We held back in the music video so it could explode in the live show.
She clarifies that the Eurovision performance choreography will be distinct from both the audition and the music video, promising a unique and impactful stage presentation. Her experience as a creative director for other Eurovision performances gives her a comprehensive understanding of stagecraft and performance dynamics.
– I am extremely involved in everything related with my performance. I give the first inputs to everyone, from the songwriters to the choreographer to the stylist and everything is closely monitored by me, she states, highlighting her hands-on approach to every aspect of her Eurovision participation.
This level of involvement stems from her desire to create a perfect and memorable Eurovision experience, leveraging her expertise both as a performer and a creative mind.
“We Will Rave” boasts a strong songwriting team, including Jimmy “Joker” Thörnfeldt, Anderz Wrethov, and Thomas Stengaard, known for their Eurovision successes. This pedigree adds to the song’s potential and Kaleen’s prospects in the competition.
This is a lifetime experience, so obviously you want it to be perfect. Kaleen on Eurovision
While acknowledging the inherent uncertainty of Eurovision results, Kaleen focuses on the process and the team effort.
– In Eurovision, you never know what’s going to happen but I feel like if you’re happy with your team and if everyone is focused on getting the best possible outcome, you already won and your ride becomes much more enjoyable.
Her past experiences in dance competitions have shaped her perspective on competition outcomes, emphasizing the personal journey and performance fulfillment over solely focusing on results.
– When I was younger and did dancing competitions, I never wanted to stay for the ceremony, I wanted to go home as soon as it ended. I didn’t care if I won or not, it would bring somewhat of a negative energy around me so maybe that will be the hardest part for me in Eurovision, not exactly performing but sitting in the green room waiting, she jokes, revealing a relatable pre-result anxiety.
Despite the nerves, her ambition to win remains clear, driven by a competitive spirit and a desire to achieve the best possible outcome. Kaleen recognizes her Eurovision experience as an advantage, understanding the demands and checkpoints of the contest.
– I think knowing what to expect is a blessing because I just know all of the checkpoints. If you’ve never worked with Eurovision and you just watch the show casually, it can definitely be overwhelming as there’s so much to do, she observes, acknowledging the complex nature of Eurovision participation.
However, she also cautions against getting overly caught up in external pressures like reviews and odds, advising Eurovision newcomers to prioritize discipline and hard work.
– Be aware that this is not just fun, it’s work. Put discipline first.
Kaleen feels that this is her moment and “We Will Rave” is her perfect Eurovision song. While another song submission exists, her focus is entirely on maximizing the impact of “We Will Rave” and embracing the positive fan reception.
Kaleen electrifies the crowd at a Eurovision pre-party, showcasing her dynamic stage presence and high-energy performance style that combines her vocal talent with her break dancing background.
– This is to be said very loud, I am so grateful for the support, it makes this journey so much more fun. I can’t wait to rave with all the ravers, whether it is at a pre-party or in Malmö or even when I’m in your ear on Spotify. Isn’t it a rave? It makes you feel happy. It is a rave. Just enjoy it.
Kaleen, Austria’s break dancing Eurovision star, is set to compete in the second Semi-final on May 9th. With her dance background, vocal talent, and infectious energy, she is poised to deliver a memorable and rave-worthy performance in Malmö. Eurovision fans, get ready to rave with Kaleen!
