Zoë: Representing Switzerland at Eurovision
Zoë Straub, known mononymously as Zoë, is an Austrian-Swiss singer and songwriter who represented Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 in Stockholm. However, her connection to Switzerland stems from her entry in the Swiss national selection process the year before, a significant stepping stone in her career.
“Glanz & Gloria” and the Swiss Preliminaries (2015)
In 2015, Zoë submitted the song “Glanz & Gloria” to the Swiss national final, Die Entscheidungsshow. This was a notable turning point as it gave her broader exposure outside of Austria. While she didn’t win, finishing third, her performance and catchy song captured the attention of many viewers and industry professionals. “Glanz & Gloria,” sung in German, showcased her unique vocal style and penchant for dreamy, ethereal pop.
Eurovision Success for Austria (2016)
Despite not representing Switzerland, Zoë’s appearance in their selection process boosted her visibility, contributing to her subsequent success in Austria. The following year, she won the Austrian national final with “Loin d’ici,” a song performed entirely in French. This marked a departure from the typical English-language or bilingual entries and highlighted Zoë’s artistic vision.
“Loin d’ici” at Eurovision 2016
At Eurovision 2016, Zoë delivered a captivating performance of “Loin d’ici.” The staging was visually striking, incorporating dreamlike elements and pastel colors to complement the song’s whimsical nature. While the song received mixed reviews, with some praising its uniqueness and others finding it repetitive, it managed to qualify for the grand final.
In the grand final, Zoë finished in 13th place with 151 points. Although not a top-tier result, it was a respectable showing for Austria and solidified Zoë’s status as a talented and distinctive artist. The song became a moderate hit in Austria and gained a dedicated following throughout Europe.
Legacy and Career
While Zoë didn’t represent Switzerland at Eurovision, her participation in their selection process played a crucial role in her Eurovision journey. It showcased her talent to a wider audience and ultimately paved the way for her representing Austria. Since Eurovision, Zoë has continued to release music and perform, solidifying her position as a prominent figure in the Austrian music scene. Her distinctive style, characterized by dreamy melodies and ethereal vocals, continues to resonate with fans. Even though her Eurovision adventure was for Austria, a small piece of Zoë’s career will always be linked to the Swiss national selection and the opportunity it provided.