ESC+Plus has talked to Kenny D’Ugo, guitarist of Crosswalk, finalist band of this year’s Maltese national selection for Eurovision. They will perform «So simple» in the final of MESC 2017 set to take place on February 18th.
ESC+Plus: Hello! First of all, thank you so much for your time and congratulations on having been selected to take part in the Maltese national selection for Eurovision 2017!
Can you tell us about you, your musical career and important achievements?
Crosswalk: Crosswalk is a band made up of Janice on vocals, Kenny on guitars, Boris on bass, and Steve on drums. The band was originally formed in 1999 between Steve and Kenny, and over the years has had different members and experimented with different styles. So Simple is our first release with this new line-up.
ESC+Plus: What impelled you to take part in “MESC 2017”?
Crosswalk: There are lots of different reasons why we decided to take part, but ultimately it came down to the song. We simply believed in the song and thought it would be a great tune to share on the MSFE stage.
ESC+Plus: How did you feel when you knew you had qualified for the final? Did you expect it?
Crosswalk: We were over the moon and it was a great relief to know we made it to the finals. It also meant we could finally tell our friends and family, because we had kept it a secret between the band. We definitely were not expecting it.
ESC+Plus: What would it mean to you to represent Malta?
Crosswalk: Two of us already have some experience of representing Malta in Eurovision. Kenny was part of Gianluca’s band in the 2013 finals in Malmo, while Boris co-wrote the representing song Tomorrow. So, from past experience we know it’s a great honour to be part of this huge competition. For us as a band it would mean a great deal. We’d get to share our song on an international stage, hopefully put a few smiles on people’s face, and no doubt have a great time throughout the whole process.
ESC+Plus: Can you tell us about your song? What is the story behind the lyrics?
Crosswalk: So Simple is a country-infused song. Musically, we tried to capture that famous Nashville sound that highlights the things we love about music most; live, organic instruments and authentic performances. We really hope the song will serve as a positive reminder that no matter how complicated and crazy the outside world becomes, the things that give life meaning are usually the simplest. Whether it’s a loved one, friend, child or a pet, we all need someone to give us hope and make us smile.
ESC+Plus: Why do you think your song has to be selected for Kiev? What are your strengths to reach the top in the competition?
Crosswalk: We think So Simple would just give the competition a happy positive entry that hopefully people of all ages and walks of life can relate too. Our strength is definitely that we are a band of four good friends and there’s never a dull moment with us around.
ESC+Plus: Do you usually watch Eurovision? What is your favourite song in the history of the competition?
Crosswalk: Yes, Eurovision is must-see TV for all of us. We have so many favourites between us, but from recent years we all love The Common Linnets’ Calm After the Storm.
ESC+Plus: If you could choose a Eurovision former participant to sing along with, who would it be?
Crosswalk: Locally we’d probably keep it between friends and choose Gianluca. From the international scene, we were all big fans of Netherlands’ entries in both 2014 and 2016. So, if we could team up with either The Common Linnets or Douwe Bob, that would be fantastic!
ESC+Plus: Finally, can you send a message for our readers and Eurovision fans?
Crosswalk: We’d like to say thanks for all the support we have received so far. You guys are great! And in the words of Ringo Starr, “Peace and Love!”