Israel’s Imri Ziv talks Eurovision, Freddie Mercury & what’s next

After two years of performing backing vocals for Israel’s Eurovision entries, Imri Ziv took to the stage himself this year, singing his feel good anthem, “I Feel Alive.” From being a contestant on The Voice to doing the Hebrew voice overs for the film Trolls, he’s making a name for himself as a dynamic performer with a diverse set of talents to offer.

When did you decide to pursue performing as a career?

Ever since I was a little kid this was what I wanted to do: be on stage. I think this world chose me and not the opposite. From a young age, I worked very hard to fulfill this dream.

Who was the first artist who had an effect on you? Who did you listen to as a kid?

Freddie Mercury. At the age of two, I was already singing “We are the Champions” by Queen. I think I sang before I even started talking. As a kid, I was exposed to many kinds of music genres, which influenced me as the musician I am today, such as Pop, Rock, R&B and even Latin music.

What inspires you as an artist?

Making people happy.

How did you come up with the direction and style of your Eurovision song, “I Feel Alive?”

I wanted to have an upbeat song in the Eurovision; to make Europe dance. Also to combine an ethnic sound in order to bring my country into the song. I’m very pleased with my song.

What most surprised you about the process of Eurovision?

It was my third time in the contest. I acted as a backing artist for the last two years so I was pretty prepared for everything. But if I’ll talk about the Eurovision in general, I was surprised by the fact that I succeeded in touching so many people, even outside Europe.

What did it feel like standing on that stage in front of 200 million people?

I felt like the most grateful man on earth. I couldn’t believe I actually fulfilled my biggest dream.

Because of the internet, Eurovision (and music in general) can be experienced all over the world. What do you think the future of the music industry looks like with all the technology at our fingertips?

The world is changing and we need to accept it. In my opinion, music would not have been the same without this technology. Today an artist can get a lot of publicity and exposure thanks to the Internet and technology. I find it to be a very positive thing.

What was the best piece of art you’ve seen/experienced in the past year?

My mom’s paintings.

Now that Eurovision is over, what’s next?

Working on my music, performing, acting in a new musical and hopefully I will keep doing what I love.