The interview with Kate (Australia 2019)
The Australian singer Kate Miller-Heidke talks to eurovisionlive. She explains how it came that she has been chosen to fly to Tel Aviv and represent her country. We will get to know the meaning of her song “Zero Gravity”, the secret of her stage performance and what popera is.
The Australian singer Kate Miller-Heidke talks to eurovisionlive. She explains how it came that she has been chosen to fly to Tel Aviv and represent her country. We will get to know the meaning of her song “Zero Gravity”, the secret of her stage performance and what popera is.
Kate will perform in the Semi Final 1 on the 12th starting position.
1. Could you please explain your experience in the Australian national final "Australia Decides"?
- I was nervous as I had never done any sort of televised competition before. Also, there was some very stiff competition! I was really excited to present my song in a theatrical way, that told a story. We are changing the staging quite dramatically for the semi-final - I can't wait to show you what we've been working on!
2. What are your personal memories from your childhood regarding the Eurovision Song Contest?
- I was in London when Lena won - that was when I really caught the Eurovision bug.
3. Do you have any favourite singers and songs?
- I love the experimental side of Eurovision - Lordi, Cezar, Netta, Conchita. ABBA obviously has a special place in my heart too.
4. What was your inspiration to participate in the national final?
- When I saw Netta win last year, I felt really inspired. I couldn't wipe the smile off my face watching her performance. Also, my son Ernie had turned two so I felt like the timing worked.
5. Pop meets opera - that has never worked really, what makes you believe that this will work this time?
- Haha. I agree with you about 'popera'. For me, generally the problem is it's done without enough humour. Also, it's usually done in a way that's not-quite-pop and not-quite-opera. It can be really cheesy. My pop and opera voices are quite different - it's two completely different vocal techniques. I feel like 'Zero Gravity' is pop song that happens to have a really overblown dramatic middle section. But at heart, it's a pop song.
6. Your unique outfit with the crown, does it has a special meaning?
- My outfit is getting changed for Eurovision (but we will keep a version of the crown as people have had such a huge response to that!)
7. Could you please tell us, what is the meaning of your song?
- 'Zero Gravity' is about emerging from depression. In my case, it was after the birth of my son. It's about waking up and feeling stronger, feeling in control. For me, when that fog lifted, it was a feeling of immense relief and empowerment. Elation, almost. But mostly relief. The song tries to capture the essence of that journey.
8. What would you like to say to our users?
- Hello! I'm so excited and thrilled to be a part of the competition this year.
