Shkodra Elektronike’s performance of their Eurovision 2025 song “Zjerm” nods the Albanian legend of Zorafa — a woman buried alive inside the walls of a castle so that her child might have a stronger home.
And lead singer Beatrice nods to that with her stunning red dress, which resembles a red flame — representing the passion that mothers have for their children. The legend is strongly associated with her home city of Shkodër — and that gives the look added resonance as she sings for her country.
“My dress is Shkodër over my skin….it’s beautiful my city. For me is the most beautiful city in the world. I wanted to represent my country with this symbolic dress.
That’s just one of the tidbits the Albanian singers shared with us during their hour-long session at the House of Helvetia.
Beatrice also gave the audience a “Zjerm” dance tutorial, explaining that they should, “move your hips like you’re not afraid, but don’t slap anybody!
And what do they want the world to remember about them and their song after Eurovision?
“For me it’s to remember that you can do everything you want with creativity. You can make the song you prefer and participate in Festivali i Kenges and win! For me that is the most important thing: to give this opportunity to others. We just wrote a song that we liked and something happened. Find yourself in what you’re doing. Don’t re-do what people are doing. To find your language — this is so important.”
You can check out our full interview above. And if you’re in Basel, be sure to visit us at the House of Helvetia all week until May 17.
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“We wrote a song we liked and something happened” is one of the quotes of the season