The singer Rafaela Teixeira Fernandes, known by her stage name Rafa Ela, is a familiar face to those who followed the Luxembourg Song Contest in 2024. Last year, she reached the finals as a duo with Angy, singing their song 'Drop'.
This year she returns on stage alone with a song written and produced in 2023 together with Swedish producers Christoffer Jonsson and Johan Jämtberg. "No Thank You" is Rafa Ela's first Latin pop song.
"I've always had the wish to go to the ESC. This will stay until the day I'm actually there, and then I won't believe it!" says Rafaela. "Last year, when Tali participated, I sat on the floor with the Luxembourgish flag, excited to finally see Luxembourg. That was a huge emotional moment. And I think if I myself can bring the flag out there and say: OK, I am what represents my country, then I can go. I get goosebumps talking about it. I wouldn't be able to describe that emotion, it would be huge pride for me."
It is important for Rafaela to feel comfortable in her body in order to feel comfortable on stage. This was difficult during her childhood, when she was often bullied because of her chubby figure, until at some point she implemented change, she explains. Sports, especially Zumba, are now a permanent part of Rafaela's life, just like music.
This Saturday, seven bands and singers will battle at the Luxembourg Song Contest for a place in Eurovision 2025 in Basel.
