VAL — that’s the Belarusian duo consisting of Lera Gribusova and Vlad Freimann — won the chance to represent Belarus at Eurovision 2020 with the Belarusian-language anthem “Da vidna”. And while that opportunity was ripped from them by the pandemic, the duo have kept on making that sweet music. The latest song in their native language is “Navechna” (Нaвечна) — meaning “Eternally”.
In a music video that was shot in an empty Dinamo Minsk Stadium, the duo, stylishly dressed in white, tell a painstaking love story using very few words. Fans of NAVIBAND will definitely love the toned-down atmosphere. Vlad’s guitar and Lera’s vocals carry this.
Speaking to Wiwibloggs, VAL explained:
“Navechna” is a very special and important song to us. It leaves a feeling of light sadness. The tune is about endless love, about the feeling of being broken-hearted. It contains the message that people are always stronger together!”
Since the cancellation of the contest, the Belarusian pair haven’t been silent. They released their experimental track “Chastnitsy schast’ya” (“Particles of happyness”), appeared on Belarus’ only late-night talkshow “Makayonka, 9” and were part of a press conference for young and upcoming Belarusian musicians at the Slavianski Bazar in Vitebsk. They also delivered a smashing performance of “Da vidna” at the Wiwi Jam at Home concert.
At the moment, it’s still unclear whether the Belarusian duo will return to the Eurovision stage next year. Responding to a comment on their music video for “Navechna”, which said the two should represent Belarus again, VAL simply wrote: “We hope so”.
Regardless, we don’t have to worry about missing out on new music by the Belarusian group: they are on a productive streak! We can’t wait to see what drops next.
What do you think of “Navechna”? Is it like something you’d want VAL to potentially sing at Eurovision 2021 if they get the chance? Let us know in the comments below!
VAL “Navechna” lyrics and translation
Written and composed by: Valeria Gribusova & Vladislav Freimann
Belarusian textУчора здавалася Чакаем, трываючы Не маўчы Думкамi, марамi Надзею гублялi мы Не маўчы Не маўчы |
English translationIt seemed yesterday We are waiting, tolerating Don’t be silent With thoughts, with dreams We lost hope Don’t be silent Don’t be silent |
Lowkey want them back! They are an interesting duo! “Da Vidna” is not bad, but it’s one of their least good songs.