Portugal is gearing up their preparations for Festival da Canção 2023. As artists look ahead to the national final, which begins on February 25th, Rory speaks to SAL. They are vying to represent Portugal in Liverpool with their song “Viver”.
Check out our interview with SAL here!
Together, SAL and Rory talk about the meaning behind their song “Viver”. They also recount their memories of Festival da Canção, and how they hope to bring their authenticity as a band to a wider audience. They also offer a message to their newfound international listeners.
About SAL
SAL is a five-piece band from Lisbon, Portugal. The band was initially a part of Diabo na Cruz – a well-known and popular formation that disbanded in 2019. However, the group was formally established in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Their debut single – “Passo Forte” – was released in April 2021. Since then, they have released a full album, garnering thousands of plays on streaming services. The band is made up of João Pinheiro, Sérgio Pires, João Gil, Daniel Mestre and Vicente Santos. Their entry into Festival da Canção – “Viver” – was written by the band themselves.
Portugal’s Eurovision Journey
Portugal debuted in the Eurovision Song Contest with António Calvário’s “Oração” in 1964. Since then, Portugal has participated in the competition 53 times – appearing the final 44 times. Their only win in the competition came in 2017 with Salvador Sobral, performing his heart-wrenching song “Amar Pelos Dois”.
Portugal’s most recent participation was with MARO with the song “saudade, saudade”. MARO managed to qualify for the Grand Final and once there, she finished 9th, after receiving 207 points from the jury and the televote.
What do you think of our interview with SAL? Do you think “Viver” could represent Portugal in Liverpool? As always, let us know what you think by commenting below. Also, be sure to follow “That Eurovision Site” on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and Tiktok as we prepare for Eurovision 2023!
News Source: That Eurovision Site
Photo Credit: Júlia Lombao
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