Salvador Sobral, the Portuguese musician who captivated audiences with his winning performance at the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest, is preparing to release a new album in October. This comes as the artist, known for his distinctive voice and intimate songwriting, granted his first interview from his home in Barcelona, offering a glimpse into his creative process and his evolving relationship with the competition that launched him to international fame.
Sobral’s victory with “Amar pelos dois” marked a significant moment for Portugal, representing the country’s first-ever win in the Eurovision Song Contest. Since then, he has continued to work steadily, releasing his debut album, Excuse Me, a decade ago and building a dedicated following. The upcoming album represents a new chapter for the artist, promising a continuation of his introspective and emotionally resonant style. The musician’s international acclaim stems from his unique approach to music, often described as a blend of jazz, fado, and contemporary influences.
However, Sobral’s connection to Eurovision is now marked by a growing distance, fueled by concerns over the contest’s political neutrality. He recently declined an invitation to perform at the 2026 Eurovision event, which will celebrate the competition’s 70th anniversary. This decision, as reported by Eurovision-Spain.com, stems from his dissatisfaction with the contest’s handling of the participation of Israel, particularly in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Criticism of Eurovision’s Political Stance
Sobral has publicly questioned the consistency of Eurovision’s criteria, pointing to the exclusion of Russia following the invasion of Ukraine while Israel continues to participate. “If Israel is there, I’m not going,” he stated in an interview with RAC1, as reported by El Diario. He believes the situation highlights a lack of coherence within the organization and questions Portugal’s willingness to share a stage with the Israeli delegation. This stance echoes similar sentiments expressed by other Eurovision winners, including Nemo and Charlie McGettigan, who have likewise considered returning their trophies in protest.
While Sobral initially considered returning his 2017 trophy as a symbolic gesture, he ultimately decided against it, believing it wouldn’t meaningfully contribute to resolving the situation in Gaza. “Here’s not about me, it’s about humanity and what is happening in Gaza,” he explained, according to Eurovision-Spain.com. “Because it continues to happen: the ceasefire is broken day by day, people continue to die. I don’t think returning the award to Eurovision would help in anything.”
A New Album on the Horizon
Despite his disillusionment with Eurovision, Sobral remains focused on his music. He is currently finalizing his new album, the details of which remain closely guarded. The interview, conducted by Carles Mesa for Radio 5, offered a rare glimpse into the artist’s personal life and creative process. RTVE.es reports this is the first time Sobral has granted an interview from his Barcelona home.
Sobral’s decision to speak out on political issues reflects a growing trend among artists using their platforms to advocate for social change. His stance on Eurovision, while controversial, underscores the increasing scrutiny faced by large-scale events regarding their ethical and political implications. As he prepares for the release of his new album, Salvador Sobral continues to be a compelling voice in contemporary music, blending artistic integrity with a commitment to social consciousness.
The release of Sobral’s new album in October will undoubtedly be a highly anticipated event for his fans worldwide. His continued dedication to his craft, coupled with his willingness to address important social issues, solidifies his position as a significant figure in the music industry. What remains to be seen is how his outspoken views will continue to shape his relationship with the broader entertainment landscape.
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