France’s recent history at Eurovision is littered with more misses than hits, but the selection of Amir, the winner of the 2013 The Voice France, is inspired.
The very likeable Amir is the perfect representation of modern-day France heralding from a complicated multi-cultural background including Tunisian, Moroccan and Spanish lineage.
All of this makes for one ridiculously adorable package, and it turns out, he's a big fan of our very own Dami Im and her killer tune 'Sound of Silence'. So much so that in a recent Periscope session with Aussie fans from the Twitter Blue Room, he belted out this incredible cover of her song:
Amir's song meanwhile, “J’ai cherche” is perfect pop. Sporting French verses and an English language chorus this piece of pop heaven is the best French effort since Angun’s “Echo (You and I)” from 2012. So much so that France is real a contender for the 2016 crown - currently vying for the top spot in the Eurovision betting odds up against Russia and our very own Dami Im.
Watch Amir's official video for 'J'ai cherché':
Four Questions with Amir:
What are the three most interesting aspects about your entry?
My song is in French with an English chorus. I wanted to write and send a message in a language that everyone can understand. I’m so proud to have been chosen as the French ambassador.
J’ai cherché is a story about the change that music brought to my life. I have never thought it could bring me so far! I'm living a dream.
This song is also about true love, the one and only. Lots of people can find themselves in the lyrics.
What are the three most impressive facts about you?
I was originally a dental surgeon. One day I woke up and decided to start a new life and to follow my passion - music. I used to live in Tel-Aviv when I was scouted to participate in The Voice in France where I made it to the final. After this amazing adventure, we worked hard on my first album to be revealed on 29th April. And then I was chosen to represent my country in the Eurovision Song Contest! Isn't this crazy?!
I am a mega-geek, I love buying the latest gadgets and using the newest tech in my everyday life.
Do you have a (lucky) routine before you go on stage?
I don't have a lucky routine before getting on the stage, but I have a very unusual way to deal with the stress: I tweet, text or make a long phone call.
Why is the Eurovision Song Contest important for you?
Since I was a kid, I always watched Eurovision shows with my family and bet on the winner. This is a chance I dreamed of as an artist. I hope my family will bet on me this year!
