Sofia Rol will soon represent Ukraine at the 2016 Junior Eurovision Song Contest with her song Planet Craves For Love. Sofia talks to ESC Covers about here –

1. Hello Sofia. Many congratulations on winning the Ukrainian Junior Eurovision national selection. What were your feelings like when you realised you had won?

If to be honest, I didn’t expect that. I even don’t remember properly the moment when I was named the winner of the Ukrainian national selection. I was absolutely delighted.

2. Tell us about your song ‘Planet Craves For Love’.

There is a message to spread. With my song I pray for peace in Ukraine and in the whole world. I hope that many people hearing my song will stop for a while and think what good things they have done and could do to make our planet better.

3. You have released a beautiful video for your song. Can you tell us something about it?

I am very happy that you like it. This video is a result of a really hard work of my team. We wanted to make something that would not disturb from the song and at the same time –pleasant to watch.

4. Have you participated in any other music festivals or tv shows either in Ukraine or other countries?

I don’t remember myself not singing. I started when I was four. I went then to my first vocal and choreographic ensemble. Two years later I had recorded my first album – a collection of songs for children, which gave a considerable circulation for charity. After that I took part in various singing competitions and festivals. I have won medals. No, no! I am not showing off, just answering the question (I am really singing all the time).

5. Who are your musical influences and your favourite styles of music?

I have a lot of influences. I listen to very different music depending on my mood. Also – always researching for something new. I aim to know all musical novelties.
However, I am a big fan of Svyatoslav Vakarchuk and Jamala if we talk about Ukrainian music. As for foreign artists I love Whitney Houston.

6. How do you feel about the Eurovision Song Contest being held in your country next year? Will you be going to the shows?

I am looking forward to Eurovision in Ukraine. I am very proud that the contest will be held in my city. I will attend it for sure. As I have already mentioned I am a big fan of Jamala, so for me it’s a double pleasure that particularly she has brought Eurovision to Ukraine.

Believe me, there are so many things you must know about Ukraine. It’s beauty, amazing people, delicious food, great nature, colouring. Eurovision will be a great opportunity to show all this to many people from all over the world.

7. What are your favourite Junior Eurovision Songs from previous years?

I am a big fan of Destiny Chukunyere (2015 JESC Winner – Malta). Her voice is absolutely amazing.

8. Where would you like to be in say 5 years time with your musical career?

I am looking forward to singing on the stage in Malta. It should be the highlight of this year and my life so far. For my career it is very important and I hope that in five years I might be a part of a senior Eurovision!

Anyway, good luck to you Sofia. We wish you all the best in Malta.

You can see the official video for Planet Craves For Love below.