Montenegro’s Eurovision 2025 journey has taken a dramatic turn, culminating in the announcement that Nina Žižić will represent the country in Basel with her song Dobrodošli.

The decision was revealed during the live broadcast of Dobro Jutro Crna Goro, by Antonela Martinović, head of media assistant for Montenegro at the Eurovision Song Contest. The announcement comes after weeks of controversy and uncertainty surrounding Montenegro’s original representative, NeonoeN.

With great anticipation, Antonella Martinović confirmed the decision at the very start:

“The decision made by Radio and Television of Montenegro is that Nina Žižić will represent Montenegro at the Eurovision Song Contest in Switzerland’s Basel in 2025, with her song Dobro Došli.”

This marks a new chapter for Montenegro as they prepare for the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. Antonella expressed confidence in Nina’s ability to represent Montenegro in the best possible way, highlighting that public support would be vital in this endeavor. She also noted the influence of NeonoeN and how their decision to voluntarily withdraw from the competition paved the way for this final choice.

The decision to select Nina Žižić was the result of a careful, objective process following numerous discussions and challenges related to the withdrawal of the Neoneni band from the competition. Antonella mentioned:

“We thank the public for their patience and understanding because unforeseen circumstances led to additional deliberations.”

The discussion also touched upon the significance of Montesong, a platform that has proven invaluable to the Montenegrin music scene. Antonella highlighted that Montesong has introduced 16 new compositions to listeners, enriching the local music industry and allowing these songs to reach a broader audience across the region. She emphasized how this initiative has contributed to supporting young and established musicians, adding diversity to Montenegro’s music scene.

Antonella elaborated:

“Montesong has not only secured a representative for Montenegro at Eurovision but has also provided opportunities for many musicians to showcase their talents. The support from the European audience has been incredible, and this platform continues to expand our musical influence.”

Looking ahead, Antonella explained the intense preparation that lies ahead for both RTCG and Nina Žižić. She noted that the Eurovision delegation will now focus on administrative responsibilities with the EBU while also supporting Nina in the coming months as she prepares for promotional activities, interviews, and performances leading up to the event in Basel.

The journey will involve numerous commitments, but RTCG remains committed to promoting both Nina Žižić and Montenegro on this global stage. Antonella added:

“These steps are demanding but necessary. Our priority is to give Nina the support she needs and ensure that Montenegro has the strongest representation possible at the contest.”

The announcement concluded on a note of encouragement. Antonella stressed the importance of national support, stating that:

“We all need to come together to support Nina Žižić and Montenegro in this major European music competition.”

With hopes high and preparations already underway, the next few months will see Nina and the entire Eurovision team working diligently to deliver a strong performance. Antonella expressed optimism and pride in the steps taken so far, adding:

“We are confident that this decision marks the beginning of a successful journey.”

The collaboration with RTCG and associations representing artists has paved the way for this hopeful future. Antonella also reflected on the strong effort put into the organization of this selection process and the festival itself, emphasizing how strategic steps and creative contributions have set the stage for this moment.

After the announcement, Nina Žižić’s performance of Dobro Došli was showcased, offering a glimpse of Montenegro’s next Eurovision chapter. Žižić, no stranger to the Eurovision stage, together with group Who See, Already represented the country back in 2013, with their song ‘Igranka’.

Montenegro’s path to Eurovision 2025 has been anything but smooth. The original winners of the Montesong, NeonoeN, sparked controversy when allegations surfaced that their entry, Clickbait, was performed prior to the Eurovision eligibility cutoff date. The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) rules prohibit public performances of entries before September 1, and an early rendition of the song at the Zabjelo Cultural Festival in 2023 raised questions of compliance.

Despite defending their position and expressing confidence in the integrity of their entry, NeonoeN faced intense scrutiny. On December 4, the band voluntarily withdrew from Eurovision, citing their desire to avoid further controversy and redirect attention to the music itself.

In their official statement, NeonoeN emphasized that their withdrawal was a gesture of goodwill and underscored their commitment to their artistic principles. They also encouraged the public to support Montenegro’s next representative, setting the stage for Nina Žižić’s selection.

In an effort to unify and energize the public, both Nina Žižić and NeonoeN will appear as special guests on Dobro Jutro Crna Goro tommorow morning. Together, they will urge Montenegrin audiences to set aside past controversies and rally behind the nation’s Eurovision campaign. Their shared message will focus on the importance of collective support to make Montenegro’s presence felt in Basel next year.

Are you happy to see Nina Žižić back in the contest? Let us know in the comments and on our social media profiles @buildingbridgespod

Photo: RTCG / YouTube