Nemo: The Eurovision Winner Who Refuses to Stand Still
In the blink of an eye, on the night of 12th May 2024, Nemo’s life was catapulted into a whirlwind of fame and unpredictability. With their haunting performance of «The Code,» Nemo clinched victory for Switzerland at the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) in Malmö, joining the ranks of legends like Lys Assia and Céline Dion. But despite the confetti and the celebrations, life post-Eurovision has been anything but predictable for this 25-year-old trailblazer.
Now living in London, Nemo finds themselves at the heart of Europe’s artistic scene, all while navigating the dizzying heights of their new stardom. And speaking of dizzying heights, just last Thursday, Nemo wowed fans in Zurich, floating 10 metres above a mesmerized crowd in a billowing tulle gown as they belted out their winning track, «The Code.» For Nemo, it’s a chance to embrace artistic freedom in ways they could only dream of just a few months ago.
«I never wanted to not perform in the final.»
During their interview for Blick, Nemo is reflective, occasionally wistful, but always insightful. The journey post-ESC has been nothing short of a rollercoaster. “It’s crazy, really. There are moments on stage when I think, ‘None of this is guaranteed.’ A few months ago, I was performing in London in this giant inflatable dress, and today I’m soaring through the air at this event. There’s so much I can do now, and I love that music and art can fuse in ways I never imagined.”
However, not everything has been smooth sailing. Rumours swirled after the contest that Nemo had considered pulling out of the final due to backstage tensions involving the Israeli delegation. But Nemo is quick to clarify: “I never wanted to skip the final. There were things happening behind the scenes, things I’m still waiting for reports on from the European Broadcasting Union. It’s frustrating that ESC’s organizers haven’t addressed these incidents publicly. Artists shouldn’t be left to bear the burden of these situations alone. There’s a responsibility to be transparent.”
A life turned upside down
Since winning Eurovision, Nemo’s life has been nothing short of extraordinary. With extreme highs come deep lows. «Life is very different now. The highs are higher, but the lows are much tougher too. Before, I was in a more neutral space emotionally. Now, there are moments of total euphoria, followed by times that are really challenging. Everything is new, and I’m still learning how to navigate it all.»
Nemo has also made a significant move to London, a city renowned for its rich history in art, music, and fashion. “There’s no other place in Europe where I feel I can express myself more artistically than in London,” they explain. “It’s an inspiring place where I see so much potential to grow, both personally and creatively.”
A creative city and a new challenge
Nemo’s move wasn’t motivated by a desire to escape fame. “Of course, I’m recognized less in London than in Switzerland, but that’s not why I chose to move. For me, it’s about being in a place where I can truly immerse myself in art and culture,” they say.
Looking back at Eurovision, Nemo remains deeply grateful for the opportunity it gave them, not only to win but to connect with audiences across Europe. “It’s challenging to put into words, but Eurovision gave me new perspectives on myself and others. Winning added another layer to that experience. I’ve learned so much and formed so many friendships. I’m thankful I could share my story and touch people with it.”
Now, as Nemo prepares to release their latest single, «Eurostar,» next week, it’s clear that this artist is far from finished. From the Eurovision stage to floating through the air at exclusive events, Nemo’s journey is only just beginning.
Source: Blick
