🇦🇱 RTSH opens submissions window for Festivali i Këngës 61

Albania’s national broadcaster RTSH is wasting no time in beginning its preparations for Eurovision 2023. Interested artists are now able to submit their songs to participate in the 61st edition of Festivali i Këngës.

Festivali i Këngës 61 – the rules

Following a prompt confirmation of participation in 2023, RTSH are hastily preparing for their upcoming edition of Festivali i Këngës. On their official website, the rules for interested artists were published. Any Albanian artist can enter once all these criteria are met:

• The final version of the participating song (with a duration no longer than 4 minutes)
• The final version of the instrumental, both including and excluding backing vocals
• The full lyrics of the participating song
• Names of the participating artist, as well as the lyricists and composers of the song
• Additional information regarding the artist, including press photos, biography and any awards or achievements

RTSH stipulated that any artist that does not provide all the information required above will not be considered.

It comes off the back of their 2022 participation, which saw Ronela Hajati representing the nation with ‘Sekret’. Despite being a fan favourite going into rehearsals, Albania failed to qualify for the final for the first time since 2017. As a result, RTSH is keen to restore their success at the Contest and is hoping to do so at this year’s edition of Festivali i Këngës.

Albania’s Eurovision journey

In 2004, Albania made their debut into the Eurovision Song Contest with Anheza Shahini with “Image of You” which managed to place 7th in the final. Since their debut, Albania has participated 18 times, and made the final 10 times, with their best result in 2012 where Rona Nishliu placed 5th with “Suus”.

In 2022, Ronela Hajati represented Albania with “Sekret”. However, despite being a fan favourite, Albania did not manage to make the final, placing 12th with 58 points from both the juries and televoters.

What do you think of RTSH’s choice to stick with Festivali i Këngës? Do you think something new should be tested out? Who would you like to see represent Albania next year? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow ‘That Eurovision Site’ on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter for all things Albania at Eurovision 2023!

News Source: RTSH

Photo Credit: EBU / Sarah Louise Bennett