EUROVISION 2025: MALTA’S “C-WORD” CONTROVERSY WITH MIRIANA CONTE
Source: E! Online
The Controversy Surrounding Malta’s Eurovision Entry
As Malta gears up for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, a significant controversy has emerged surrounding the entry song by Maltese artist Miriana Conte. Originally titled “Kant,” which translates to “singing” in Maltese, the song faced a last-minute title alteration due to the European Broadcasting Union’s (EBU) concerns regarding the word’s potential double meaning in English.
A Last-Minute Change
Miriana’s song was set to perform in the second semifinal on May 15. However, due to EBU’s regulations aimed at preventing “inappropriate content,” the title had to be changed to “Serving.” According to the EBU, the original title bore a resemblance to a vulgar slang term in English, leading to its disqualification.
In her March Facebook post, Conte expressed her shock and disappointment at the decision: “We’ve just been notified that [the] EBU has decided against using the Maltese word ‘Kant’ in our entry in the Eurovision Song Contest. While I’m shocked and disappointed, especially since we have less than a week to submit the song, I promise you this: the show will go on — Diva NOT down.”
Exploring the Song’s Original Meaning
The lyrics of “Kant” contained the phrase “Serving kant,” a nod to a popular expression within queer culture, representing fierceness and confidence. Despite losing the original title, Conte remains optimistic about her song’s potential impact.
“I was disappointed,” she mentioned in a TikTok interview. “I cannot lie and say I wasn’t because obviously, ‘kant’ to us here means singing. I thought that maybe the song would lose the magic but, to be honest, I have such a big following, such big supporters, that even now with the new version people tell me they can still hear it in their heads.”
The Struggle and Resilience
Miriana reflected on the emotional roller coaster she experienced during this last-minute change. As a well-known Maltese artist, she understands the stakes involved in such a high-profile contest, and her determination to succeed shines through her words.
“I was pretty much over it by the time we were trying to find solutions. I like a challenge,” she added, demonstrating her resilience amidst the unexpected pressures of sharing her music on such a grand stage.
The Impact of EBU Regulations
The EBU’s Duty of Care rules for the Eurovision Song Contest prioritize ensuring that the acts presented do not contain inappropriate content. This includes lyrics, gestures, messages, or elements that could be deemed unsuitable for a diverse international audience. With these stringent guidelines in place, it’s not uncommon for artists to face challenges along their creative paths.
The Maltese delegation is maneuvering through last-minute adjustments, a situation not uncommon for artists participating in international contests. Miriana’s ability to adapt speaks volumes about her professionalism and commitment to staying relevant in the ever-evolving music landscape.
Looking Ahead to Eurovision
With the name change and revisions now complete, Miriana Conte is set to take the stage with a reimagined version of her entry. The anticipation surrounding her performance is palpable, as audiences worldwide wait to see how she channels the emotions she experienced through these changes into her art.
Eurovision 2025 promises a unique spectacle, and Maltese fans are eagerly rallying behind Miriana. The contest is a vibrant platform for showcasing cultural diversity and artistic expression, and Miriana’s journey embodies the essence of resilience and creativity.
Tags: Malta, Eurovision 2025, Miriana Conte, music controversy, EBU regulations, song title change, cultural representation, Eurovision Song Contest, Maltese artist, queer culture