The new music competition will be held today, Saturday, at the same time as the war in Ukraine.
As happy as the New Music competition is, Logomo cannot close its eyes or ears to the situation in Ukraine.
It was talked about by viewers, journalists and also artists. Yle itself announced yesterday that it would withdraw from Eurovision if Russia, which had attacked Ukraine, was involved in visas. Later in the evening, Ebu announced that Russia has been excluded from Eurovision.
In a post-general press conference at Logomo, Iltalehti asked how they could focus on the UMK in a situation where a neighboring country has invaded Ukraine.
– Important question. This is really emotional, and the situation is thought-provoking. In the performance itself, or whatever you do, you can do nothing but put it with all your heart, The Rasmus Eero Heinonen said.
The Rasmus’ Eero, Emppu, Lauri and Aki at the UMK press conference. Matti Matikainen
– I saw protesters in a hotel room yesterday … The soil is about to cry, clearly moved, The Rasmus singer Lauri Ylönen said.
Isaac Sene described the situation as pregnant. Matti Matikainen
Isaac Sene for his part, said the situation was difficult, but today it is unthinkable.
“I’ll think about it tomorrow,” Isaac said.
Olivera said he directly supported Ukraine. Matti Matikainen
Olivera was outspoken when asked about Ukraine.
– I support Ukraine. Everyone can strive to bring some goodness to the world on their own plot, be it at the K-market checkout or in the yard of the kindergarten. I’m working to make the world a little better because of me, Olivera said.
Bess says she is shocked by the situation in the world. Matti Matikainen
Bess said the world situation was shocking in every way.
– Now, if ever emphasized, the importance of music, art and being together. I am always on the side of love and peace. That’s what my song says, Bess said.
Youngheartedin Emil Korkiakoski praised Yle’s and Ebu’s decisions regarding Eurovision.
– I read somewhere that it is important to continue my own routines. We do everything we can ourselves, Emil continued.
Younghearted’s Atte Ranta, Reeta Huotarinen and Emil Korkiakoski praised Ebu’s decision to close Russia. Matti Matikainen
Cyan Kicks, meanwhile, said she wanted to bring joy to people with UMK.
– We want to offer a nice thing, improve people’s minds. This brings people joy, Cyan Kicks soloist Susanna Alexandra said.
Cyan Kicks wants to bring joy to people. Matti Matikainen
Tommi Läntinen said Thursday morning he was in disbelief. Russia attacked Ukraine just on Thursday.
– Eurovision encourages peace. What is happening in Ukraine is difficult to comprehend. There is a small fear in Mussa that how all this will affect us, Läntinen said.
Tommi Läntinen said that the situation in Ukraine had been discussed in the back room of the UMK. Matti Matikainen
The new music competition will be seen today at 9 pm on TV1.