Music

Eurovision hopeful Michael Rice doesn’t think Brexit will affect UK’s points in Tel Aviv


Michael isn’t thinking about his chances just yet (Picture: Eurovision)

Ever since the Brexit referendum 100 years ago… oh wait, we mean three years ago (it feels like longer), there have been moans that the rest of Europe will punish the UK in the Eurovision Song Contest.

And after a stage invader interrupted Surie’s performance last year in Lisbon, it seemed the haters may have had a point.

But 2019 entrant Michael Rice doesn’t think Brexit will affect his chances – although he hasn’t really thought about his chances anyway.

The 21-year-old told Metro.co.uk: ‘What’s going on is going on in terms of Brexit, but it’s a music competition that brings people together. It’s all a way to bring people together.’

And in regards to his chances in the rankings in Tel Aviv this May, he said: ‘I haven’t really thought about it yet. The bookies have their favourites, but I’m just concentrating on trying my best and putting on the best performance I can give.’

Michael beat five acts including X Factor star Holly Tandy at You Decide to represent the UK with his song Bigger Than Us – a big, inspirational number with high notes a-plenty. Think X Factor winner’s song.

And the video has just dropped to add more impact.

The sweet video sees two schoolchildren bond over their love of space, and attempt to keep their friendship going in spite of their families clashing.

‘The music video will blow everyone away, it’s not what you’d expect from a Eurovision entrant,’ Michael explained The song has a big message, and the video will take you on a journey. It’s all about being who you are, whatever your race, religion, sexuality, whatever.’

Of course, the video won’t be played at the contest, but hopefully it will give Michael some much-needed promo, as he won’t be performing at the semi-final.

Due to the UK being one of the ‘Big Five’, along with Spain, Italy, France and Germany, he has a pass straight to the final. But while this may sound like a good thing, the Big Five often miss out on attention at the semis.

In fact, only one of the Big Five has won in the past 20 years – Germany, with Lena’s Satellite in 2010.

‘It’s definitely an advantage,’ mused Michael, ‘but I suppose the acts in the semi-finals get a bit more exposure, maybe.

‘But I still have the jury performance and the press performances before the big grand final one.’

Michael will perform Bigger Than Us at the Eurovision grand final on 18 May in Tel Aviv.



Got a showbiz story?

If you’ve got a story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk Entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we’d love to hear from you.

MORE: Inside Adele’s three-year marriage to Simon Konecki as pair confirm split

MORE: ‘I never thought I’d be doing this at 40’: 5ive’s Scott Robinson on ‘selfish’ bands and teenage fans





READ SOURCE

Leave a Reply

This website uses cookies. By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies.