SLOVENIA – Slovenia’s 2011 Eurovision Song Contest representative who was to compete in the country’s national selection this year under the name Amaya has withdrawn from the show.
In a statement to Slovenian broadcaster RTV SLO, the singer said, “I was very pleased about appearing in EMA. I would have appreciated getting home, but everything happens for a reason and this path is not the only one. Following recent events, my agents and I have opted for a different approach to my career. I don’t exclude the possibility of an EMA appearance one day, but at this time my universe is devoted to something else, and I feel that I have to follow. I wish all the contestants good luck and I believe that this year’s EMA will be great!”
Amaya’s appearance at EMA was highly anticipated by the public. The singer has taken on a busy scheduled with work in Sweden and South Korea, a market she is attempting to establish herself in. Amaya recently signed a deal with Swedish record label Cow Pow studios and her career development is in conflict with EMA 2017.
Mario Galunic, Chief Editor of EMA, said, “Even after the Amaya’s withdrawal, EMA will have 16 performers. We are in final discussions with artists and authors who will be invited to participate, which we also allow for in the rules of EMA 2017”.
DID YOU KNOW?
Maja Keuc represented Slovenia with the song “No One” in 2011, coming 13th in the grand final and granting Slovenia a grand final appearance for the first time since 2007. The first and second semi final of EMA 2017 takes place on February 17 and 18.
