Inga says authenticity makes Eesti Laul artists memorable

Singer Inga says the artists who stand out most in Eesti Laul are those who stay true to their own style rather than copy past trends, ERR reported.

Last week, 12 acts were announced for the competition, which takes place in January and offers the winner a chance to represent Estonia at the Eurovision Song Contest. A 40-member jury assessed 153 songs submitted to the contest. Inga was among the judges on the preliminary panel, taking part for the first time.

Speaking on Raadio 2’s morning programme, Inga said organisers had not provided detailed scoring instructions. After listening to about 50 songs, she developed her own approach, relying on her instincts and personal taste.

The jury was asked to assess the performance and originality of each song, as well as its potential to succeed at Eurovision. Inga said she gave the maximum score to two acts, one of whom made it to the finalists. She declined to identify the act, saying jury members had differing opinions and that she was disappointed another promising performer had not advanced.

Inga said artists should focus on their own sound rather than imitate trends, which change quickly. Performers who follow their own direction are usually the ones people remember, she said.