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Eurovision: the pride of Bashar Murad's family, Palestinian wanting to represent Iceland
Who will represent Iceland at Eurovision 2024?
The country organized the second semi-final of its selection competition on Saturday evening, in which a Palestinian singer participated: Bashar Murad.
This young artist from Jerusalem aims to represent the Nordic island during the competition which will take place next May.
If qualified, he would be the first Palestinian to participate.
Listen - 01:42
The semi-final of Söngvakeppnin, the Icelandic competition to select a candidate for Eurovision, in which Palestinian singer Bashar Murad participated, followed in Jerusalem by his relatives on Saturday February 24, 2024. © Guilhem Delteil / RFI
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With our special correspondents in Jerusalem,
Nicolas Benita and Guilhem Delteil
It is a traditional Palestinian house built of white stones
from Jerusalem
.
In the living room, around fifteen people gathered around the television.
But on screen, an Icelandic show.
The scene may seem unusual, but Said Murad wanted to follow the performance of his son,
Palestinian artist Bashar Murad
who is participating in the competition in Iceland to represent the country at Eurovision.
"
I'm very proud.
I like his song, the music video.
And I think this song will go far,
” he confides.
View this post on Instagram
A post shared by Söngvakeppnin (@songvakeppnin)
Everyone watches the show attentively, and is enthusiastic about Bashar Murad's performance.
But in this friendly and festive evening, feelings remain shared, as Noura, a family friend, indicates.
“
It’s a bright moment in a very, very, very dark time.
I think he's using this platform to get even more attention.
I apologize, if it seems like we’re partying or happy
,” she whispers.
Bashar Murad, qualified for the final to wear the colors of Iceland
Bashar Murad's adventure
is experienced collectively.
While waiting for the results, the suspense becomes heavy.
Fadi Murad inquired about his brother's chances in this competition.
But relief only comes when the singer finally qualifies for the final.
"
There were times when I was like, '
Oh, he's not going to make it
.'
And I was starting to become pessimistic.
So I'm very happy for him.
And I think it worked because he gave a very good performance.
Whether you liked him or not, he had a story.
» The story of a young man of 31, who wants to surpass his horizons.
Also read: Rima Hassan, jurist, denounces “this impulse which consists of harming Palestinian words”
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