Ana Soklič will perform “Amen” at Eurovision 2021. The Slovenian star presented her song for Rotterdam tonight with a live performance at EMA 2021. And despite claiming her song would NOT be a ballad, Ana has surprised fans by delivering a gospel ballad.
Unlike its predecessor, “Amen” is sung entirely in English. “Amen” is an uplifting ballad with gospel themes. In the chorus, Ana sings “Hallelujah, we’re glorious”, accompanied by a gospel choir.
The song gives Ana plenty of chances off her vocal talents, with the gospel choir backing her up and adding more depth to the performance.
“Amen” was written by Ana Soklic, Charlie Mason, Ziga Pirnat and Bojan Simonic. The gospel part was recorded in the Eastwest studio in Los Angeles, which also served as work officed to Lady Gaga, Jennifer Lopez and many other Hollywood icons.
One of the songwriters is Charlie Mason who is a well-known figure inside the Eurovision bubble. He most successful Eurovision entry is Conchita’s “Rise Like a Phoenix”, but he also co-wrote Slovenia’s “Here For You” in 2015.
Ana Soklič’s is the second “Amen” we’ll see in Eurovision 2021. Earlier this week it was revealed that Austria Vincent Bueno will also sing a song titled “Amen”. On the flip side, this year we also have songs titles “Fallen Angel”, “Dark Side” and “El Diablo”.
Ana Soklič – “Amen” (official music video)
In her live performance, Ana can be seen wearing her signature white catsuit, similar to what she wore at EMA 2020.
As the song progresses, Ana is seen surrounded by fire, suggesting the theme of the song might be clash between good and bad. Ana’s deep and pure vocals have once again proved to be her main asset.
How Slovenia picked their entry
Ana Soklič won EMA 2020 and was internally selected to be Slovenia’s artist again at Eurovision 2021. In July, Ana opened a public call for songs. From 191 submissions, the broadcaster shortlisted three songs.
At one point it was considered to use EMA 2021 to select Ana’s song, but due to the ongoing pandemic the broadcaster internally selected the song instead.
Here’s what Ana said about her new Eurovision song:
“I sincerely thank everyone who contributed their works – we had a hard time choosing and choosing. In fact, the song may sound great in another singer’s interpretation, but in my vocal performance it sounds completely different. I am very happy with the chosen song, and I hope you will all be too. We also made good use of the unique opportunity with recorded backing vocals, which is allowed by this year’s Eurovision rules due to all the measures.”
Earlier this week it was announced that Karin Zemljic will provide backing vocals for Ana. Karin is a Eurovision alum in terms of vocal support; she previously backed Maraaya (2015), ManuElla (2016) and Lea Sirk (2018) on Eurovision stage.
Evrovizijska Melodija (EMA) 2021
Normally EMA is held as a national final with multiple acts competing to be Slovenia’s Eurovision entry. But with the song having been internally selected this year, EMA 2021 instead showcased Slovenia’s Eurovision history.
The show, hosted by Eurovision 2018 singer Lea Sirk and Nejc Šmit, celebrated 60 years of Slovenia at Eurovision. The country debuted in 1993, however, their contest history dates back to the 1960s when the country competed as part of Yugoslavia.
Many former Slovenian Eurovision stars made an appearance. They shared words of advice for Ana on her Eurovision journey.
What do you think of “Amen”? Is it better than “Voda”? Will Austria’s “Amen” sound better? Tell us in comments below.
Slovenia had the lowest bar to get over from last year. But it still feels like the laziest writing. Ana has a fantastic voice, but this isn’t a singing competition, it’s a song contest. It only gets worse when Ana and the Slovenian team said that it wouldn’t be a ballad, and then gave us this, a Ballad 101.
The song is technically an anthem not a ballad – so they were true to their word. But agreed, the lyrics are lazy.
It is an ode to humanity, it is not a ballad, But it looks that Eurovision fans know only ballad and not ballad songs – sadly. For me it is a beautiful song and impressive music which brings me back to the roots of Eurovision contest, wich used to be more about music and less about the stage circus. I really miss voices like Celine Dion and winners to become world stars. Most of them are easily forgotten or we have only one song to remember. Remember ABBA? This kind of Eurovision will never produce another Abba again. Ana is… Read more »
I actually like the song and hope they do well this year, but is it just me or does something sound off about the bridge?
it is just you. And exactly what you think is wrong, makes this bridge so surprisingly good.
That is your opinion, but music experts will disagree!
Her song is simply beautiful and so impressive….I love her strong presence on the stage. She really owns it.
Hi Una, to be honest I am disappointed too. Looks like they are playing the game here having seen how well “Proud” did (which neither of us liked). Not singling out Slovenia but an example of sacrificing quality to win at any cost mentality. Makes me appreciate the likes of Albania and Ukraine all the more.
Sure, qualify and/or win!
Obnoxious preacher that could well com from som US christian boot camp. Slovenia cacelled this year.
come on, vote me down, the more hate the more my point is proven! LOL
Wise up! You are in denial!
“The more hate the more my point is proven!”
…but, you didn’t make a point.
Only in gospel style not really preachy. Nothing abut god, everything about people!
Songs worse than this have already been chosen. So it’s actually not that bad at all.
Is it me or the color of her voice sounds different when she sings in English?
Honestly, I had a hard time understanding her singing in English. Why wasn’t she singing in Slovene like last year
You have understood that better?
Her voice is really good for soul and similar styles….
How…? Did Austria released it already?
I’d rather watch paint dry …
Go ahead and watch paint dry or this can be your toilet break song!
So no death metal? Eh
If this was a voice competition, she would win, hands down. I like ”Amen”, just as I liked ”Voda” last year; I just don’t love it. 10 minutes after hearing it for the first time, I already forgot everything about it, and that’s not a good sign.
I agree her voice is amazing but the song is forgettable.
Interesting, I can already whistle it and it grew to me very easily. Especially after hearing it for the second time, when I was done with my expectaitons and was ready to listen.
Great vocalist powerful performance.
NQ I fear
It sounds good and I really like Ana’s voice, its tone and it colour. The song itself isn’t nothing out of the books but it will grab some jury votes and those of the religious audience (I’m almost sure Vicent’s “Amen” wouldn’t be religious themed). I do think without a real gospel choir it lacks that something. But it might get adressed with the choir appearing in a LED wall behind Anna. In my imagination every vocalist could appear in a single square sing from their homes and then put together. It is kind of cheesy but it is also… Read more »
Ana’s Amen is not really religious! The songs stays open to different understandings.
But she has chosen the gospel style because it is majestic and gives the people encouragement and opens her voice.
I really don’t like it. Voda felt calming, pleasant to listen to. It was one of my personal favourites. This might score higher because the ending is really impressive, but I feel like I’ve heard it before and like it has zero identity compared to Voda.
The ESC have rules againts religious/political lyrics. “Voda” was one my favorite song last year and when I see this song, that such a deception.
I think this song risk to will be destroy by juries because the religious reference like Germany 1995 and Portugal 1964.
The most political song at ESC was Greece 1976.
And somehowesong called “Prayer” won the contest. Same with “1944”. So yeah
The song called “prayer” has not much to do with religion – she just says “heaven knows that your name is my prayer” (a little blasphemous even).
Ana’s song is not explecitly religious song. I’m not religious and I love it.
1944? Sure it’s about historic events, but the song itself does not mention anything specific of political or religious. Unlike “Amen”, which has straight up religious lyrics.
The song is not religious, if words amen and Halllelujah make you a believer to any god, that would be something!
I quite like it because she has an amazing voice which reminds me of Conchita Wurst. It will be difficult in semi 1 because the public will kill it but juries will probably give a lot of points. It would be deserved tbh.
Tbh I’d never listen to this song by volition
Credit to Ana for sticking with what she is good at doing musically – singing deep and powerful ballads. However, I miss the Slovene language that “Voda” had. That appealing aspect is sadly lost in “Amen.” But apart from that, I think it’s a solid attempt from Ana. Now all we need is for Slovenia and Austria drawn next to each other to experience a longer period of Amen. 🙂
I think she wanted to be understood more widely. Nobody can eat AMEN like they could drink Voda and make fun of her song without any understanding at their reactions!!!
This song should make the likes of Paul, Dee and Mark Gormley happy. 😛 Heil el Diablo! 😀
Actually, I don’t think it should be displaying any reference to religion so you are wrong again Benny! Good voice, but I can’t see it qualifying and is quite forgettable! It will score decently on her voice and performance, but that is it!
You should learn to be more professional instead of bring religion and politics into the contest!
some countries think by putting tacky lyrics and words similar can do a good English song! Awfull effort from Slovenia! It is shame because Ana has a very good voices and she could have done better with a rock song
Good luck Slovenia, but I wish countries would keep religion out of the contest!
hoh, IT IS NOT A RELIGIOUS SONG!!!! It is in gospel style. TWO words do no make religion, believe me. It would be too easy.
The song is not bad, but I liked her song “Voda” from last year much more.
A bit generic and all, not bad, not good.
With the amount of religious song titles competing this year those Christians in Cyprus will go bonkers..
This song though I have the same feelings like last year: That voice needs a strong song to serve it. Not it!
I am honestly disappointed with this because I had hoped that Slovenia would step it up because They had a year to do so. It is my current last place unfortunately, and while I don’t wanna make any qualification predictions right now, I’m not holding my breath to expect Slovenia in the final.
I also am a bit puzzled. She said it won’t be a ballad, and what did we get? A ballad..
It looks Eurovison fans know only ballad and not ballad, and would not recognize anything else? Would you? It is and ODE!!!!!
What is wrong with you people? Are you seeking for god? Sorry, you can’t find it in Ana’s song. But you just might rethink your humanity.
The Austria one is definitely gonna destroy her if it’s a gospel bop. Let’s wait and see.
Austria knows a thing or two about gospel bops. And they don’t even mention religion at all! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HF1sQ7kK494&ab_channel=escLIVEmusic1
the austrian song is not a gospel song as far as i know
Not even worth a second listen. Dated.
That is your opinion
The stereotypical hand movements of “reaching out, grabbing air and pulling it into your chest” kills this song.
Sorry Slovenia, I can’t. I had the same view last year too, so nothing has changed in that regard.
That said, as others have mentioned, Ana has a great voice, and looks stunning, but song and hand gestures ruin it, there is nothing stand out here.
Won’t do as well as North Macedonia in 2019 though (even that was questionable).
I am a bit disappointed and was really interested in hearing her tackle something other than a ballad, but I guess this is her style and she’s sticking to it. What I find frustrating is that I think she is possibly the best vocalist in the competition or at least top 3. She could do so many wonders with that voice and this song… is way, way beneath her in my opinion.
That said, I think she has all the elements to do well with the juries like “Proud” did if the staging is good.
I am pretty sure we will never hear Amen sung on the same night by 2 different countries this year
Ana has such an amazing voice.
I wish I liked the song more.
Not getting or feeling the message, just find it all a bit confusing really. Seems quite evangelical but then there’s lots of fire and talk of fighting so maybe the religious elements are metaphorical? Maybe I need to let it fester for a bit.
Yes you are close to the truth. The song is all about people not about good.
She’s gonna have to edit it…it’s 3.44….almost a minute longer than regulations.
Danny
No, the song is only 3 minutes long. The other 45 seconds are just a special bit with the gospel, this isn’t part of the official song
Amazing voice, rather boring and very predictable song. I think this will struggle to qualifyin semi 1.
Meh
This is mesmerising, her voice is amazing and hypnotic. I want to hear it again, which must be a good sign. If she can deliver this live Slovenia are flying high.
Yes, even tho I am a religious person, I feel somehow Eurovision is not a right place to show some “too obvious” religious acts.. I may skip this song when I play the CD.. but yeah free speech exist as I am talking my opinion here..
As I expected, it’s already growing on me.
Off topic ….Germany’s Jendric just performed his song live on stage in the Schlagerchampions show on prime time ….and I have to admit, it is working on stage. The only bad thing was the weird camera work.
The song is actually funny. I think it will get a higher televote than people here are expecting. Even most non-Wiwi based You Tube critics really like it.
Yeah I’m really coming around to it. It’s at eleventh place for me right now, but I don’t think it’ll drop out of my top twenty even as we get new entries
This is gonna be a shocking televote magnet if the staging is done right in May. Many people at home want something weird and different.
we’ll as a Slovene I expected something like this. Something fine, but nothing special. It’s around my 9th place so far I think. Juries will probably love this tho, it will probably be the best vocal of the semi, not sure about the voters – I guess we’ll get 12 points from the Cypriot Christian group so at least there is that 😀
I predict a 12th place finish. Aroud 14th with televoters, and around 7th or 8th with the jury.
12 points from the Cypriot Christian group – just made my night! cheers!
The song is ok. She`s beautiful! Good luck!
Lmao
yes they have as a Slovene she said it won’t be a ballad, probably someone else got the song – maybe Azerbaijan or San Marino lol hahhaha.
Whoops you accidentally put your standings upside down like that Eurovision Jury in 2019
There are real chances for qualifying: In the first semi so far are only better Lithuania and Ukraine.
At first I didn’t like it, but Amen started to grow after some listens. So far it is 10th in my top 14.
It’s an improvemente on Voda for sure. I don’t hate the lyrics, and the song is fine, but it gets really busy at the end. Just when you think it’s over, it keeps going, and not in a good way. I think maybe if they cut the last 20-30 seconds it would be better.
BTW, I don’t remember whis semi this is in, but it would be hilarious if producers put it right after Norway and/or Cyprus. Ana will take you guys to religious therapy lol
It’s in semi final 1, but it’s in the first half so it doesn’t interact with norway or Cyprus which are both second half.
They could put Ana last in the first half and Cyprus first in the second half 😛
That is a possibility, but the middle portion might go to another country. B
I really don’t like this song. The verses are so dull and the chorus so cliched. I love Ana’s voice but I think this is an almost certain non-qualifier.
As much as I don’t want to make such predictions this early, I have to agree with you. 15 countries have to be chopped and Slovenia might be one of them.
This is a definite qualifier . Everyone will downvote this but just you wait and see
I hope she wins!
Ok, someone tell me I’m not the only one who saw this. I love this song, and I love her, but the video runs to 3:44! This is nearly a four minute, (albeit wonderful), song! And eurovision published the video as the official video….did no one else see that and think it might be a problem? Maybe they are allowing her to do it that way…I do not know. I love the song, but am confused about this part of it.
You really have some problems! Believe me, on the stage everything will be like the program directors will say. As always!
unpopular opinion but i love this
I love it too. No need to have a popular opinion.
do not worry, I have no idea what kind of people come to comment to this page…
This song is generally accepted very enthusiastically and most people love it.
This is worse than Voda. Voda might’ve taken a long time to build up, but it had some nice atmospheric sounding production, and had a satisfying conclusion. Amen, despite giving Ana more room to belt, feels very sterile and uninteresting. Also, despite Ana’s religiosity, her belting here feels less genuine than on Voda. The fact that the comments on ESC’s Youtube channel are more focused on the drama of having two songs named Amen then the song should really tell you something.
Yeah, even with only 14 songs out (8 of them in semi final 1), I don’t think Slovenia is going to qualify. 15 countries in the end have to stay behind, that’s just the game.
Worse songs won.
Ana’s vocals are fantastic! But the song, it’s quite boring and forgettable. It’s not bad, just really bland. I would have liked it more if it was in Slovene.