Interview: Junior Eurovision winner Irina Khechanovi (Georgia 2011)

In the run-up to Junior Eurovision 2014 in Malta, we’re rewinding the clock and interviewing some of your favourite JESC stars of years past. Earlier this week our Georgia correspondent Rezo Mamsikashvili caught up with Irina Khechanovi, one-fifth of Group Candy, who won Junior Eurovision 2011 with their sugary sweet song “Candy Music”. Following the group’s win, Irina appeared on national television and met the president. But she’s a girl with her feet on the ground. Here’s what she had to say…

Hi Irina! Has your life changed at all since JESC 2011?

My life changed a lot. I became a famous person. I learned to work with a group and I got a lot of experience.

How did you celebrate your win?

Our victory celebration was unforgettable for me because it was my birthday that night. So it’s very fun with participants of JESC 2011 and with their delegations.

Does a ballad or a catchy song have a better chance of winning Junior Eurovision?

Certainly a memorable song. Our song was a memorable song too. We all sang ‘Candy Music’!

http://youtu.be/T6PQGmJaccg

Why is Georgia so good at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest?

People are guided by professionals at ‘BZIKEBISTUDIO‘ and ‘GPB’ (Georgia Public Broadcasting), who are doing all they can for a successful show.

Do you want to compete at the adult Eurovision?

No. I don’t want to. I’ve already won JESC.

Did you watch Eurovision this year? Who was your favourite?

Yes! I liked ”Rise Like A Phoenix” by Conchita Wurst.

What advice do you have for this year’s contestants from Georgia?

They are very lovely children. When they arrive in Malta, they must be distinguished, but not overly so. They should also be sociable.

Do you have anything you’d like to say to your fans on wiwibloggs?

You should never give up and always be workers. You must love a difficult life: busy days create success for everyone!

Thanks for chatting Irina and good luck!

Thank you!