Romania’s Controversial Eurovision Entry Makes It to the Final
Romania’s entry in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest has sparked a lot of debate after its performer, Alexandra Capitanescu, 22, delivered a provocative performance that left many viewers stunned. The act, which took place during the second semi-final at the Vienna Stadthalle, featured Capitanescu writhing on all fours in a skimpy leather outfit while performing a song titled “Choke Me.”
The lyrics of the song include lines such as: “All I need is your love. I want it to choke me, choke me, choke me. Born for you to control. I want you to choke me, ch-ch-ch-choke me, ch-ch-ch-choke me. Love me, make my lungs explode.” These lines, combined with the visual elements of the performance, led to significant controversy.
Capitanescu was seen wearing a full black leather outfit and began her performance bound to her guitarists by white neon ropes. She then crawled across the stage on her hands and knees as jets of fire shot into the air. This dramatic display raised questions about the appropriateness of the song’s themes, particularly regarding its reference to choking and [sexual slavery].
Singer Denies Sexual Interpretation of Controversial Song
In response to the backlash, Alexandra Capitanescu addressed the controversy on social media, denying any sexual intent behind the song. She stated, “I have a responsibility to the people who listen to my music, come to my concerts or follow me on Social Media. ‘Choke Me’ is a metaphor for the pressure we sometimes place on ourselves. It speaks about inner fears, self-doubt, and the feeling of being emotionally suffocated by our own expectations. It was never intended to represent anything sexual.”
She added, “As a songwriter, I often use symbolism to give shape to feelings that are difficult to explain directly. This song reflects the weight of certain emotional struggles and the journey of reclaiming your voice and autonomy. Music is how I process complicated emotions and make sense of my inner world.”
Capitanescu emphasized that the lyrics are about taking back control over anxiety and emotions that are choking you. She expressed gratitude to those who engage with her music in good faith.
UK Entry Faces Criticism from Eurovision Viewers
The controversy surrounding Romania’s entry comes amid criticism of the UK’s participation in the contest. The UK’s act, Look Mum No Computer, performed for the first time, featuring Sam Battle, 37, in a pink boiler suit. The performance included dancers in fluffy computer headwear and a synth-heavy song called Eins, Zwei, Drei.
Viewers were unimpressed by the act, with many taking to social media to express their disappointment. One comment read, “Just when you think it’s absolutely impossible to get any worse the UK entry has done it yet again! Absolute Trash. Nil points!” Others compared it unfavorably to previous entries, noting that the UK has not had a good entry since Sam Ryder.
However, some viewers found the performance amusing and thought it might do better than last year’s entry, Remember Monday, which placed 19th out of 26. One fan wrote, “UK was actually really interesting to watch! And funny. Much better than I expected!” Another said, “I thought the UK Eurovision staging was brilliant. It’s not a radio friendly song, but it sticks in your head because it’s so catchy. It’s bonkers, but I like the fact we’ve tried something wacky + different because the last few ‘radio friendly’ songs didn’t land us points.”
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