Happy Independence Day Albania! What a better way to celebrate this Eurovision-loving nation than to relive the country’s special moments in the contest and spotlight its upcoming Festivali i Këngës? Let’s go!
Albania’s Eurovision Journey
Albania made its Eurovision debut in 2004 with Anjeza Shahini and her pop song ‘The Image of You‘, which achieved the impressive 7th place. A very strong debut!
Although Albania hasn’t claimed a Eurovision trophy (yet), it has delivered unforgettable performances that left a mark on fans. Here are some of our favourites:
• 2012: Rona Nishliu gave us a masterclass in vocal power with her emotional ballad ‘Suus’, securing a record-breaking 5th place—Albania’s best result to date.
• 2022: Who could forget Ronela Hajati and her bold, dance anthem ‘Sekret’, bringing flair and fire to the Turin stage?
• 2023: Albania leaned into its heritage with Albina & Familja Kelmendi and the heartfelt ‘Duje‘, a modern folklore masterpiece celebrating family and tradition.
From ethno-pop to soulful ballads, Albania knows how to blend its cultural roots with contemporary vibes, making it a fan favorite year after year.
Festivali i Këngës: The Gateway to Eurovision
The Albanian entry is selected by Festivali i Këngës (FiK); a long running music competition that happens in Tirana since 1962. It is usually from the first national selection shows of the season, as it normally takes place around December.
This year marks the 63rd edition of Festivali i Këngës, running from December 19 to 22 (with the final on the 22nd). With 30 participants, it’s shaping up to be another spectacular show.
There are in total 30 participants which were revealed on the 7th of October. Here is the full lineup:
• Algert Sala – “Bosh”
• Alis Kallacej – “Mjegull”
• Ardit Çuni – “Amane”
• Devis Xherahu – “Ka momente”
• Djemtë e Detit – “Larg”
• Elvana Gjata – “Karnaval”
• Endrik Beba – “Ishe ti”
• Epos – “Kurajo dhe Zjarr”
• Erma Mici – “Mbaje”
• Frensi Revania – “Rreziko”
• Gjergj Kaçinari – “Larg jetës pa ty”
• Gresa Gjocera – “E vërteta”
• Jet – “Gjallë”
• Kejsi Jazxhi – “Kur bota hesht”
• Klea Dina – “Dashuri ndiej“
• Kleansa Susaj – “Ta dija”
• Laurjan Ejlli & Adelina Corraj – “A thu”
• Lorenc Hasrama – “Frymë”
• Luna Çausholli – “Qiell apo ferr”
• Mal Retkoceri – “Antihero”
• Martina Serreqi – “Nese qaj”
• Mihallaq Andrea – “Porositë e babait”
• Nita Latifi – “Zemrës”
• Orgesa Zaimi – “I parë”
• Rea Nuhu – “Sot”
• Ronaldo Mesuli – “N’zemër”
• Santino De Bartolo – “Kur nata vjen si bora”
• Shkodra Elektronike – “Zjerm”
• Stine – “E kishim nis”
• Vesa Smolica – “Lutem”
We can’t wait to see who will fly the Albanian flag at Eurovision 2025 in Basel. Stay tuned for more updates, and don’t forget to share your favorite Albanian Eurovision moments in the comments!
