Benidorm Fest 2025: Melody Shines as Mowat Sparks Controversy in Electrifying Semi-Final
The Benidorm Fest 2025 is proving to be a rollercoaster of emotions, and last night’s second semi-final was no exception. With Chenoa kicking off the evening with a medley of her greatest hits and the dynamic trio of Paula Vázquez, Inés Hernand, and Ruth Lorenzo at the helm, the stage was set for a night of unforgettable performances. But as the votes were tallied, the night ended with cheers, surprises, and a fair share of boos.
A Night of Contrasts and Surprises
If the first semi-final was a showcase of pop, the second was a celebration of diversity. From traditional copla to fiery salsa, flamenco, and reggaeton, this semi-final proved that the Benidorm Fest is a melting pot of musical styles. And, as always, there was room for surprises, standing ovations, and, this time, a touch of controversy.
The Performances That Stole the Show
Mel Ömana opened the night with I’m a Queen, a powerful blend of ballad and urban beats. Her energy and charisma set the bar high from the very beginning.
Henry Semler, the American-Catalan artist, moved the audience with No lo ves, an intimate ballad performed in a living room-style setting. His soft voice and simple staging won over many hearts.
DeTeresa brought copla into the 21st century with La pena, a flamenco-reggaeton fusion. Her daring performance, complete with references to bullfighting and football, was one of the night’s most memorable moments.
J KBello, a fan favourite, heated up the stage with VIP. Backed by five dancers, his urban pop anthem left no doubt as to why he’s a top contender for the bronze microphone.
Claudia Frigo, the TikTok star turned performer, turned up the heat with Bésame.
Mowat surprised everyone with Un raggio di sole, an ‘80s-inspired pop-electronic track. Dressed as a druid, his performance was one of the most original of the night.
Celine Van Heel made her musical debut with La casa, a salsa track that broke the mould at the Benidorm Fest. With a staircase reminiscent of Havana’s cabarets, her performance was fresh and full of rhythm.
Melody closed the show in style with Diva, a flamenco-infused pop anthem. Despite some sound issues, her glamorous staging and commanding presence earned her the loudest applause of the night.
The Verdict: Cheers and Boos
After performances by Ruth Lorenzo and Isabel Aaiún, it was time for the results. With a 50% jury and 50% televote system, the decisions were anything but straightforward.
The jury selected Melody, J KBello, Mel Ömana, and Mowat as finalists. However, the public vote told a different story, choosing J KBello, DeTeresa, Melody, and Mel Ömana. In the end, the four acts advancing to the final were J KBello, Mel Ömana, Melody, and, amid loud boos, Mowat.
The decision to include Mowat over DeTeresa, a crowd favourite, sparked controversy. The boos from the audience made it clear that not everyone agreed with the outcome.
Who Will Take the Bronze Microphone?
With these four finalists, the grand final of Benidorm Fest 2025 promises to be a spectacle full of emotion. Melody, with her powerful voice and charisma, seems to be the frontrunner
