In the heart of Basel, where the Rhine weaves through centuries of history and modernity, a new chapter unfolds in Switzerland’s musical narrative. Zoë Më, a 24-year-old singer-songwriter, is set to represent her homeland at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 with her evocative song “Voyage.” This selection is not merely a nod to her talent but a celebration of Switzerland’s rich cultural tapestry and ongoing commitment to artistic excellence.
A Multilingual Muse: The Journey of Zoë Më
Born Zoë Anina Kressler in Basel in 2000, Zoë Më’s early years were marked by a blend of cultures. After spending part of her childhood in Germany, her family returned to Switzerland, settling in Fribourg—a city where French and German coexist harmoniously. This bicultural environment profoundly influenced her artistic development, leading her to craft songs that seamlessly blend both languages.
From age ten, Zoë began composing her music, channelling her experiences into a unique “poetry-pop” style that marries introspective lyrics with melodic sophistication. Her bilingual EPs, Le Loup and Dorienne Gris, released in 2024, garnered critical acclaim and showcased her ability to navigate complex emotional landscapes through song. Performances at esteemed venues like the Montreux Jazz Festival and Luzern Live further cemented her reputation as a rising star in the Swiss music scene.
The Road to Eurovision: Internal Selection and Artistic Integrity
Switzerland’s national broadcaster, SRG SSR, opted for an internal selection process to choose its Eurovision 2025 representative. This method, focusing on artistic merit and potential for international appeal, led to Zoë Më’s selection, underscoring the country’s commitment to showcasing authentic talent.
Zoë’s selection is particularly poignant, as she will perform in her birthplace, Basel, during the contest. Reflecting on this opportunity, she described it as a “full-circle moment,” expressing deep gratitude for the chance to represent her country on home soil. Her song “Voyage,” performed in French, encapsulates themes of self-discovery and emotional resilience, inviting listeners to embark on a journey of introspection and connection.
“Voyage”: A Musical Exploration of Emotion and Identity
“Voyage” is a testament to Zoë Më’s lyrical prowess and musical sensitivity. Co-written with Emily Middlemas and Tom Oehler, the song delves into the complexities of human relationships and the transformative power of love and loss. Its French lyrics, delivered with haunting clarity, evoke a sense of longing and hope, resonating with audiences across linguistic and cultural boundaries.
The choice to perform in French is a deliberate nod to Switzerland’s linguistic diversity and reflects Zoë’s heritage. By embracing her multilingual background, she not only honours her roots but also highlights the inclusive spirit of the Eurovision Song Contest.
Switzerland’s Eurovision Legacy: A Tradition of Musical Excellence
Switzerland is distinguished in Eurovision history, having hosted and won the inaugural contest 1956 with Lys Assia’s “Refrain.” The country’s second victory came in 1988 when Céline Dion, representing Switzerland, captivated audiences with “Ne partez pas sans moi.” These milestones underscore Switzerland’s enduring commitment to musical innovation and cultural exchange.
In a historic triumph at the 68th Eurovision Song Contest held in Malmö, Sweden, Swiss artist Nemo captivated audiences with their genre-defying performance of “The Code,” securing Switzerland’s first victory since 1988. Blending opera, rap, and pop elements, the song delved into themes of self-discovery and non-binary identity, resonating deeply across Europe. Nemo’s powerful vocals and dynamic staging garnered 591 points, placing them ahead of Croatia’s Baby Lasagna. Beyond the music, their win marked a significant moment for representation. Nemo became the first openly non-binary performer to claim the Eurovision title, embodying the contest’s spirit of diversity and inclusion.
The 2025 contest marks Switzerland’s third time hosting Eurovision, with Basel as the vibrant backdrop for this international celebration of music. The city’s rich cultural tapestry and strategic location at the crossroads of Europe make it an ideal setting for an event that champions unity through diversity.
Anticipation and Artistic Vision: Zoë Më’s Eurovision Debut
As the contest approaches, anticipation builds around Zoë Më’s performance. Her artistic vision for “Voyage” promises intimate and evocative staging, aiming to create a profound connection with the audience. In interviews, Zoë has expressed her desire for the Swiss crowd to resonate with her song, hoping its message will echo beyond the confines of the arena.
Her participation showcases her talent and reflects a broader narrative of Switzerland’s evolving musical identity—one that embraces its multilingual heritage and fosters emerging artists who bridge cultural divides.
Conclusion: Embarking on a Shared Journey
Zoë Më’s representation of Switzerland at Eurovision 2025 is more than a singular achievement; it symbolises a nation’s artistic evolution and its embrace of youthful, authentic voices. Through “Voyage,” she invites Europe to join her on a journey that transcends borders and speaks to the universal human experience.
As the spotlight turns to Basel, and the first notes of “Voyage” fill the air, audiences will witness not just a performance but a heartfelt expression of identity, resilience, and unity.
José Amorim
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