The Swedish singer Loreen will be part of this year’s Lifeballs this Saturday night and will be performing her new single “Paperlight”. “Entertainment and charity: this is the perfect combination!” But it is precisely the political aspect that is important.

After all, the 31-year-old, already three years ago, when she was successful with “Euphoria” at the Song Contest in Baku (Azerbaijan), has shown her commitment and has met with local human rights activists – what you hear from the host country of the actually decidedly unpolitical singing competition was taken. It is not, however, Loreen’s way to take a sheet in front of her her mouth. “More artists should work for something, but unfortunately, pop music has become a bit shallow,” she emphasized in the APA interview.

The importance of Loreen’s socio-political content is underscored by her song, which will be featured on the autumn album. “We were discussing what these terms really mean: male, female, gay, but in the lyrics, it’s somewhat cryptic, but I believe the message is already coming in. It is my call to the next generation: We have to take responsibility and cannot think in drawers when it comes to gender, sexuality and equality.”

“Be wise!”

Just music offers the opportunity to reach the people, the singer is convinced with her Moroccan roots. “It’s unbelievable what you can achieve on an emotional level, which directly affects your mood and often arouses memories.” In the same way, their demand for their colleagues is to be understood: “Why do so few try to use this power, which they possess, as an artist, one has the possibility to reach many people, one can not only satisfy one’s ego.”, says Loreen. “Be wise, if everything revolves around you, you will be devoured.”

For understanding, Loreen also went in the other direction: “We tend to blame the politicians, but honestly, why do not we try to change something instead of complaining all the time? The situation is far from easy, you should be aware of this. You have to start with yourself.” But she does not demand that musicians articulate themselves politically. “One can also give guidance in other matters, in other questions,” suggested Loreen.

“I do not want to limit myself.”

As she vehemently represents these messages, the former ESC winner would like to present herself on her upcoming album. “I’ve tried different aspects of my voice,” Loreen said. “This is how Jimi Hendrix plays guitar: there are so many things you can do with your own voice, so the album does not just have a style.” In addition to electronic as well as hip-hop influences, you should expect a “dynamic basic mood”. “Many of us will not expect that,” laughed Loreen. “But every coin has two sides, I do not want to limit myself.” For me, music is not a mathematical formula, it is too spiritual.”

The Eurovision Song Contest will always remain connected to Loreen. “This is a part of me, this event has changed my life and offered me a platform, since then I can do what I love the most, and I will always be grateful.” In the Life Ball, she is – apart from the charity aspect – particularly impressed by the visual component. “There’s the diva in me,” the singer muttered. “I really like this aesthetic, it’s a great job, I hope I can add my little part.”

• Original link: http://www.kleinezeitung.at/kultur/musik/4732673/Ehemalige-ESCGewinnerin_Loreen-schwaermt-vom-Life-Ball
• Translation: Via Google Translate