Ira Losco
Ira Losco won the 2016 Maltese national selection and earned the right to represent the island nation at this year's Eurovision Song Contest.Since winning the competition in January she has worked with PBS to decide which song would go forward to the contest, and the result of these discussions was that Walk On Water would be the song she will perform in Stockholm.
Ira Losco is one of the biggest names in Maltese music, and her career spanning over 15 years has seen her win more than 20 music awards.
Ira has twice opened concerts for Sir Elton John and has performed alongside Katie Melua, Maroon 5, Akon, Enrique Iglesias, Ronan Keating, Tokio Hotel, Gigi D`Alessio and many more. She has also had a string of chart topping singles, including What I’d Give, The Person I Am, and Me Luv U Long Time. Her fifth album will be released this year
Ira is also no stranger to Eurovision, having come within 12 points of winning the Eurovision Song Contest in Tallinn in 2002. She returns to the Eurovision stage 14 years later in Stockholm with a powerful song, Walk on Water.
Beyond music, Ira is an advocate for LGBTI rights, supports anti-bullying initiatives and campaigns to help teenagers protect themselves from revenge porn. In 2008 she was awarded a Prestigious Medal by the President of Malta in recognition of her outstanding achievements.
Things you should know about Ira Losco
What are the three most interesting aspects about your entry?
- It has amazing energy.
- It's very different to the song I came second with in 2002.
- You can dance your socks off to it.
What are the three most impressive facts about you?
- I’ve performed in 15 countries and released four albums.
- I came second in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2002.
- I can’t say no to a burger.
Do you have a (lucky) routine before you go on stage?
I say a little prayer and have a drink of carob, honey and ginger.
Why is the Eurovision Song Contest important for you?
It’s a fantastic international stage. I loved every minute of it last time ,and know what an honour it is to be able to perform in front of 200 million people.
