From our special correspondent in Malmö (Sweden)
It was a Slimane overwhelmed by emotion who came to meet French journalists in the press room adjoining the Malmö Arena, after the Eurovision final where he finished in fourth place.
“I think there will be a before and an after in my life, as a man,” he declared with tears in his eyes. I saw to what extent peace, love, work could gain through merit and it is beautiful for our children, for my daughter, for everyone. I want to say that when you believe in it, when you do things with your heart, it works. So yes, I’m not first, but I sang in French with a ballad that speaks of love, following my path and what I had in my heart.
“We deserved to exist and to be heard”
“Nemo deserved to win [et nous] we deserved to exist and to be heard. We were tonight, I hope you are proud of me,” continued the artist.
Slimane had distinguished himself a few hours earlier, during the final rehearsal, by declaiming a message of peace instead of performing the a cappella part of his song, My love. A wish that he had expressed to the organizers and which also allowed him to take care of himself vocally. “I had no voice yesterday [vendredi], he confided. I have received so many messages of support from France and elsewhere… I want to say thank you, I hope you are proud of me. »
” What party ! »
Alexandra Redde-Amiel, the head of delegation, did not wait long to answer his question. She said she was “very proud” of this performance. ” What party ! So many emotions! His performance was an extremely powerful moment. I had the chance to work with such an artist, I was able to accompany him, it’s a great joy,” she rejoiced.
In detail, Slimane finished in second place in the jury rankings (218 points), behind the Swiss artist Nemo (365 points), and in fifth place in the televoting with 217 points. It was beaten by Croatia, Israel, Ukraine and Switzerland.