In a move that surprised many who had heard the original choice, Imperija, the FYR Macedonia broadcaster, MKRTV, decided to replace this song with a different song. Pred Da Se Razdeni was premiered tonight.
Citing the reason as a less than enthusiastic reception in the country the song would represent, MKRTV responded to their public and have come up with a song that is similar in style but, according to the FYR Macedonian Head of Delegation, "We found a way how to get the maximum from vocal capabilities of Esma and Lozano. This is a modern song with some elements of Roma music, that made Esma so popular and a well-known artist. We combined two different styles and what we got in the end is a song that will represent our country in a very descent way. Esma’s name, her style and quality in the performance of Roma music is very know worldwide. But Lozanski is an amazing singer, too. Altogether, it will be a perfect way to represent FYR Macedonia in Malmo"
You can compare the two songs below.
Esma & Lozano will compete in the second semi-final on May 16th.
