The 63rd edition of Festivali i Këngës, Albania’s music competition, concluded with Shkodra Elektronike’s “Zjerm” winning, so they are officially representing Albania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. However, many people are mad about these results because they think that Elvana Gjata’s “Karnaval” should have won. The close results have sparked debates among fans and critics alike, with strong opinions divided over which song would have been the better choice for Eurovision.
Shkodra Elektronike – “Zjerm”
“Zjerm,” performed by Shkodra Elektronike, which is a group no one heard of before, is a dynamic mix of traditional Albanian music and contemporary electronic elements. It is completely different from any other Albanian song. The song’s title translates to “Fire,” and it lives up to its name with an energetic and passionate composition. The blend of modern beats with ethnic sounds and lyrics creates a unique experience that represents Albania’s rich musical heritage while appealing to a broader, international audience.
The performance of “Zjerm” at Festivali i Këngës was marked by a truly different choreography, which resonated with both the jury and the public. The song’s ability to mix the traditional and modern musical styles contributed to its appeal, aligning with Eurovision’s appreciation for cultural authenticity presented in a contemporary format.
Elvana Gjata – “Karnaval”
Elvana Gjata’s “Karnaval” is a dance-pop track infused with Latin rhythms, showcasing her versatility as an artist. The song features a festive and upbeat tempo, with lyrics in multiple languages, including Albanian, English, and Spanish, reflecting a cosmopolitan flair aimed at international audiences. So it isn’t really representing a lot of the Albanian culture, but it’s more of a fun song.
The performance of “Karnaval” was a visual spectacle, featuring elaborate choreography and vibrant costumes that embodied the carnival theme. Elvana’s stage presence and the song’s catchy melody made it a crowd favorite, and many fans believed it had the potential to make a significant impact on the Eurovision stage.This isn’t Elvana’s first time competing in the competition. She participated in the 58th edition in 2019 with her song “Me Tana,” where she also won second place.
Public Reaction and Debate
The announcement of Shkodra Elektronike as the winner elicited mixed reactions. While many praised “Zjerm” for its cultural depth and innovative fusion of genres—ethnic, mystic, and futuristic—with a touch of an ominous element, others felt that “Karnaval” possessed a more universal appeal that could have resonated more effectively with the diverse Eurovision audience. Elvana Gjata’s fans were disappointed, saying that her international experience and the song’s mainstream sound would have been advantageous for Albania’s representation.
Elvana Gjata responded to the outcome with grace, expressing gratitude for the public’s support and emphasizing the importance of resilience in the face of disappointment because it’s the second time she didn’t win. She stated, “Ten times I fall, eleven I will rise,” indicating that she may continue to compete until she goes to Eurovision.
Which Song Should Have Won?
“Zjerm” is the song by the unknown artists with no fanbase and a rare type of music with no intention of going to ESC but shockingly sweeping both the jury and the televote, beating the fan favorite and their mainstream song by double the votes.
On the other hand, “Karnaval” embodies a global pop sensibility with its infectious rhythm and multilingual lyrics, designed to captivate a wide audience. Its mainstream appeal and high-energy performance could have stood out in the Eurovision lineup, attracting votes from a broad demographic.
Conclusion
The debate over whether “Zjerm” or “Karnaval” should have won Festivali i Këngës reflects the broader discussion about the direction of Albania’s representation in Eurovision. Both songs have their merits: “Zjerm” with its cultural fusion and “Karnaval” with its international pop appeal. Ultimately, the choice of “Zjerm” indicates a desire to present a piece that is deeply rooted in Albanian heritage while embracing modern musical trends. As preparations begin for Eurovision 2025, it will be intriguing to see how Shkodra Elektronike’s “Zjerm” is received on the international stage and whether it can capture the hearts of a diverse European audience.
