Eden Golan Demonstrates Power as Israel's ESC Contendor - "My desire is to serve as an advocate for those wronged."
Israeli singer Eden Golan, 20, faced threats and anti-Semitism before participating in a singing competition. Her original song "October Rain" was deemed too political and changed to "Hurricane" due to its reference to the Hamas attack that took the lives of 1200 people on October 7.
In Malmö, hateful demonstrations and death threats were directed towards Golan, resulting in her being confined to a secret hotel with tight security for the semi-final and tonight's performance. Despite the tense situation, Golan remained optimistic.
"I feel at ease in Sweden. I have an exceptional security team who take care of me flawlessly. Malmö has been kind to me and made me feel welcome. I'm having a great time here," she stated, maintaining positivity.
Her parents, constantly concerned, remain by her side. "They're naturally worried and concerned but they're aware that I'm in safe hands and that people are looking after me. So they're just there to support me and be part of this incredible journey," she shared.
Golan expressed no bitterness about having to adjust her song. "I'm not dwelling on the past. I'm overjoyed with the outcome we have. We have an emotional, powerful song that carries so much meaning, both for me and many others, and resonates deeply within me. I don't dwell on the past."
She's hopeful that her song's message will endure beyond the competition. "Individuals connect with the song, listen to the music, and it helps them. No matter what they're going through, it gives me great comfort. I'm immensely grateful for the heartfelt messages from people across various countries."
Representing Israel at the largest music event in the world is a considerable honor for the singer. "It means a lot to me to be the voice of my country in front of millions of people," she stated.
Golan expended significant effort to prepare for this moment. "I wish to make our nation proud."
While favorable results are not her focus, she doesn't dismiss the possibility. "I'm happy we've made it this far, and the chance to perform in front of a large audience and showcase our voices is significant. The result doesn't matter in the end; what's crucial is putting on the best performance feasible."
Golan intends to impact people and remind them of the suffering Hamas has caused her people.
The singer reflects, "I yearn to be the voice of the victims, the voice for those still captive and yearning to return home." Approximately 100 hostages are still held by Hamas in Gaza.
However, Golan believes that music transcends any challenge. "Music can forge connections. It doesn't matter where someone comes from or their beliefs."
Golan viewed the event as a considerable honor, irrespective of outcomes. "Music surpasses all barriers. It can bridge gaps. It doesn't matter where someone originates from or what faith they follow."
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Source: symclub.org
