Cyprus’ hope for Eurovision victory

An Australian singer-songwriter hopes he can work the charm in Liverpool next year hears PAUL LAMBIS

At just 24, Australian singer-songwriter Andrew Lambrou has built a following of millions with his soulful, honeyed vocals. Backed by his loving, extended Greek Cypriot family, he moved from covers of pop hits to releasing his own original sounds on social media.

For Eurovision fans his name may sound familiar as Lambrou took part in Australia Decides earlier this year with the song Electrify, where he competed for the opportunity to represent Australia at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest in Turin, placing seventh out of eleven entries.

However, Andrew’s performance led to several opportunities, and he was ultimately signed to City Pop Records and later Panik Records of Greece. It was only a matter of time before the Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CyBC) and Andrew’s record labels would team up to send him to Eurovision 2023.

“I grew up watching Eurovision with my family,” he said. “Being a part of the biggest live music event in the world is like living out a dream for me. I have always appreciated everything that goes into it.”

Andrew is excited to showcase his artistry to the world when he represents Cyprus at the 67th Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool next May. “I am beyond excited to embark on this adventure and will spare no effort to bring the trophy to Cyprus.”

Music became a part of Andrew’s life at the age of five when his parents enrolled him at a prominent music school in his hometown of Sydney. After giving his first performance on stage and winning a prize for his musical talent, Andrew was unable to think of anything other than music as a career path.

He quickly rose to fame after posting his debut music video on social media, which he had filmed in his bedroom. “The positive feedback made me understand the power I had to connect with people through my music, and I had no intention of slowing down,” he said. “I kept uploading videos to all of my platforms, and my version of Zayn Malik’s Dusk Till Dawn received nearly two million views. It was an incredible moment that left me wondering what listeners might think of my own songs.”

In 2015, aged 17, Andrew entered the Australian X Factor. His rendition of Nick Jonas’ Chains won over judges Danii Minogue, James Blunt, Chris Isaak and Guy Sebastian. “When I reflect on my time at the competition, it was a fantastic experience and I learned so much,” Andrew said.

He qualified for the five-seat challenge in the competition’s second round and met global music mogul Simon Cowell. Although Andrew did not place in the top three to go to the live concerts, Cowell lauded him for his singing skills and his bright future in music. “I think I was too young when I entered, however I respect everything I experienced on the show, especially the people I met who helped influence my music career,” he added.

Andrew said he has drawn inspiration from other artists throughout the course of his career. “Michael Jackson’s accomplishments, presence and music have served as a major source of inspiration. In addition, I like to listen to The Weekend, Bruno Mars, and especially German film score composer Hans Zimmer’s epic, cinematic sounds, which I admire.”

Greek music has also played a significant role in Andrew’s life, since the sounds of the bouzouki were a constant element in his Greek Cypriot home. “The emotionally driven vocals and deep-rooted meanings in the songs have all influenced the kind of music I create today.”

Despite his success, Andrew argued that simplicity helps him experience life through a different lens. “It does not take mountains to entertain or impress me,” he told Living. “The most important thing is being surrounded by the people you love.”

Although Andrew has proven that he is adept at singing both upbeat pop numbers and heartfelt ballads, no details have been shared about the song that will represent Cyprus at the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest.

“The power of his talent, his unique sound, and his love of Eurovision is evident and sustained,” head of press at CyBC Eurovision Cyprus, Andreas Anastasiou said. “Andrew’s pop music, which is laced with dark elements, while carrying uplifting and positive messages, is what first drew us to him. Andrew will undoubtedly represent Cyprus to the best of his ability.”

The next chapter of his thriving music career will see Andrew relocating to Cyprus in preparation for the main event to be held in Liverpool next year although that will upset his situation. “My parents have played such an important part in this. Without their support I would not be where I am today.”

He has received an overwhelming number of messages wishing him good luck from all over the world; wishes that inspire him to work hard and, perhaps, ensure Cyprus’ long-overdue success.