Belgium will be represented by Essyla at the 70th Eurovision Song Contest in Vienna this May, with her song “Dancing on the Ice.” The announcement was made on Thursday, February 19, 2026, by Belgian broadcaster RTBF (Radio-télévision belge de la Communauté française). This marks Belgium’s participation in the prestigious international music competition, alternating between its two public broadcasters, with RTBF taking the lead this year.
Essyla, whose real name is Alice Van Eesbeeck, is a 29-year-vintage singer-songwriter from Perwez in Walloon Brabant. She first gained public recognition as a finalist on the ninth season of The Voice Belgique in 2021, showcasing her vocal talent and artistic identity. Her musical journey began in her youth, forming her first band and later honing her technique at the IMEP music school in Namur.
“Dancing on the Ice” is a co-creation, penned by Essyla alongside Nicolas d’Avell, Emil Stengele and Barbara Petitjean. The song, described as a “daring” track, embodies a sophisticated electro-pop sound and serves as an anthem for the resilience and optimism of youth. According to RTBF, the song was developed during a songwriting camp organized by SABAM, bringing together emerging talents from the Wallonia-Brussels Federation.
Essyla expressed her excitement and humility upon learning of her selection. “I don’t fully realize [it],” she shared, according to reports. “A part of me is still elsewhere, as if I were hiding the fact that I am the one who represents Belgium.” She also acknowledged the pressure to develop her country proud and her eagerness to perform in Austria, stating, “It’s a completely crazy adventure, a dream that I’ve been chasing since I was little.”
The artist’s musical influences are diverse, ranging from classic French chansons to jazz, folk, rock, and funk, particularly inspired by American singers and sounds. This blend of genres shapes her music, which combines pop with soulful and emotional elements. Essyla has already released her debut EP, I’ll Be Okay, following the success of her singles “Let You Head” and “Not My Kind of Dude.”
RTBF opted for an internal selection process, rather than a televised national final, to choose Belgium’s representative for Eurovision 2026. The broadcaster highlighted that “Dancing on the Ice” conveys a message of hope, celebrating the determination of a generation that chooses to move forward and dream, even amidst fragility and challenges.
Essyla’s selection fulfills a long-held dream, and she intends to leverage the platform to champion the resilience of her generation. The song captures the beauty of youthful optimism, encouraging listeners to locate their rhythm and “dance on the ice” despite the cracks in the world today.
The 70th Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Vienna, Austria, on May 12th, 14th, and 16th, 2026. Essyla’s participation marks an exciting moment for Belgian music and a promising entry for the competition.
As Essyla prepares for her performance in Vienna, anticipation builds for how “Dancing on the Ice” will resonate with audiences across Europe and beyond. The coming months will be crucial as she refines her stage presence and prepares to represent Belgium on one of the world’s largest musical stages.
What are your thoughts on Belgium’s entry for Eurovision 2026? Share your opinions in the comments below and be sure to spread the word!
