Baby Lasagna, one of the 24 finalists of Dora 2024, the show that will judge Croatia‘s representative in the 68th Eurovision Song Contest, gave an exclusive interview to the editorial team of OGAE Greece.
Taking things from the beginning, it was December 15, 2023, when HRT, the Croatian broadcaster, announced the 24 finalists of Dora 2024 and 4 backup artists, who would be invited to compete only in case someone dropped out. On the eve of the publication of the songs, Zsa Zsa, one of the original finalists, who was to perform with the song ” Budi usne moje “, announced, out of the blue, her withdrawal from the Croatian music festival. In this way and always according to the rules of Dora, Zsa Zsa’s place was taken by Baby Lasagna, as the first announced back-up artist with the song Rim Tim Tagi Dim!
Listen to Rim Tim Tagi Dim, Baby Lasagna’s proposal for Eurovision!
Who is behind “Baby Lasagna”?
Baby Lasagna, aka Marko Purišić, is not unknown to the Croatian public but also to the fans of the Eurovision National Finals, who already know him from Dora 2019, when he competed with the band Manntra and the song “In The Shadows”.
Since then he’s matured, cut and dyed his hair (admittedly we adore the new look!) and under the name Baby Lasagna released two songs, “IG BOI” and “Don’t hate yourself, but don’t love yourself too much” which we would suggest you…to enjoy responsibly!
His experience writing songs for different types of artists has allowed him to blend together incompatible genres and create exciting sonic creations.
Listening to his tracks repeatedly, we concluded that this is a very strong persona, which at the same time hides an introversion, which we found particularly charming. As for his lyrics, they are intended to provoke reflection regarding the contemporary social climate.
We approached Baby Lasagna, through his Instagram account, more to give him positive feedback, about Rim Tim Tagi Dim, but from the beginning he was so receptive and forthcoming with us, that we ended up in a conversation, which we didn’t want to end…
Thank you for the positive feedback and I’m glad you’re excited about Baby Lasagna entering Dora!
My entire team has been pleasantly surprised both because Rim Tim Tagi Dim was the first backup song for this year and also because the audience has been excited about our proposal.
All this is still unreal to us, but we are boldly moving forward, launching preparations for the great race ahead!
Baby Lasagna
Our next question was rather expected: “How is it for an artist who is in the reserve songs of a National Final and who does not know if he will compete until the eve of the announcement of the songs, to be in the final list and already considered a favorite?” .
I feel excited – sometimes good and sometimes bad. I’ve always loved writing music and singing but the exposure we’ve gotten now is definitely a double-edged sword. I hope to make my supporters happy! My feeling, needless to say, is completely surreal. But to be honest, I was surprised that I was even considered a backup, so I can’t even describe how I feel about it all!
Baby Lasagna
We also asked him what he is preparing for Dora. How does he envision his appearance and if we will see something bold or if he prefers to play it safe to ensure success?
Initially I didn’t prepare anything because I didn’t think I would be chosen. When I got the call I prepared something small and simple. But eventually it all blew up and right now I’m working to put on a big show that will fully live up to Baby Lasagna!
I don’t intend to play it safe for sure! I never play safe!
Baby Lasagna
Regarding the message behind the lyrics of the addictive Rim Tim Tagi Dim:
The song tells the story of a young boy, who leaves his beloved village, to look for a better life, somewhere else and the anxiety that accompanies such a decision!
It’s a burning social issue for Croatia youth flight abroad so it’s a story that young people can relate to, yet has a humorous and light hearted approach!
Baby Lasagna
Not wanting to abuse Baby Lasagna‘s time and kindness, we asked him one last question: “If not you, then who should win Dora 2024?”.
If not me then definitely Let3! I’ve been a huge fan of theirs for a long time!
Baby Lasagna
The message for OGAE Greece!
The dates of Dora 2024!
The Croatian National Final will be held on Sunday, February 25, 2024, at the HRT studios in Zagreb, while 2 semi-final phases will be held on February 22 and 23 respectively!
- 22/02/2024- Semi-final #1
- 23/02/2024- Semi-final #2
- 25/02/2024- Grand Final
You can listen to the 24 nominated songs here!
Stay tuned to ogaegreece.com for more surprises from our beloved Eurofans and don’t forget to follow us on Facebook , Instagram , TikTok , Twitter and YouTube !
Is Baby Lasagna going to be a dark horse of Dora?