Watch: Norway’s Ulrikke performs acoustic version of “Attention” inside a tram

In the days (and soon to be weeks) since Eurovision 2020’s cancellation, fans have been scouring the internet for any nuggets of content relating to this year’s acts. With no preview parties, live performances and such are hard to come by.

And so, we’re throwing back to a very special live rendition of “Attention” from Norway’ Ulrikke.

Ulrikke “Attention” (acoustic)

In the days before the Melodi Grand Prix 2020 final, Ulrikke uploaded a live acoustic version of “Attention” to her YouTube channel. Recorded inside an old tram, itself located in a museum, the video sees a cellist and three violinists join the singer.

And while the clip itself is impressive — it was filmed all in one take — it’s the vocal performance that will keep you watching until the end.

This stripped-back version sees Ulrikke approach the song in a gentler fashion, and somehow it becomes even more emotive than before — who knew that was even possible? The overall effect is sublime.

This is how she describes it:

I wanted to do something different for the music video, and had the idea of making an acoustic live version of the song. So we were able to record it on a one-take inside a museum for old trams here in Oslo. It was only 4 degrees in the museum, so it was a tricky and challenging experience making sure the instruments were in-tune at all times – But we pulled it off and I’m sooooo happy with the results!! I hope you guys like it as well”.

The acoustic rendition was also recorded as a single and is available to stream on Spotify and other platforms.

Ulrikke and Eurovision 2021

While many countries have already locked in their 2020 singers for a 2021 return, Ulrikke won’t be back.

Norwegian broadcaster NRK has confirmed that Melodi Grand Prix is set to return for a 61st edition in 2021. However, Ulrikke Brandstorp turned down the chance to compete as a guaranteed finalist with a new song.

Ulrikke says she feels that she would need to find the right song, but she knows that will take time:

“No, I don’t want a place in the final, it would be a little wrong. There is so much to start again, and then I need a new song that I really love. I have worked so damn hard for this, I have invested all of the work and money into this. It’s been a tough year – tougher than many might think. Maybe it’s good to do something different, shift your focus.”

She was disappointed in the decision of NRK to not internally select her, but could understand it:

“I had a dream that they would send me next year, but that was not the case. I am very sorry and disappointed with that decision, but that was the way it was.”

NRK confirmed that Ulrikke has accepted the invitation to perform “Attention” and a new song as a guest performer during the final of Melodi Grand Prix 2021.

What do you think of the acoustic version of “Attention”? Will you miss Ulrikke in 2021? Let us know in the comments.

Follow all of our Norway Eurovision 2020 news.