Austria’s Eurovision contender JJ is blending pop and classical music with his song “Wasted Love,” creating a unique fusion of styles that has earned him praise and is expected to secure a second-place finish behind Sweden.
The 24-year-old Austrian-Filipino countertenor, JJ, shared with AFP, “It surprises people that a man can sing so high.”
JJ, known for his cropped pants and collection of rings, grew up in Dubai before discovering classical music in Vienna. He now balances his opera training with performances in small roles and talent shows.
While he respects Austria’s “strict” classical music tradition, JJ also seeks the freedom to experiment and let loose with his music.
Pushing Boundaries with “Wasted Love”
His Eurovision song, “Wasted Love,” explores the theme of unrequited love. The piece begins with high soprano notes, then transitions into a blend of lyricism and balladry, ending with an energetic techno finish.
“We wanted to bring something new, something unexpected,” JJ said. “I didn’t expect the mix of pop and classical to be so well received. Classical music is not something everyone listens to.”
While classical music has been present at Eurovision since the 1950s, it has gradually been incorporated into more modern styles, such as with Italy’s Il Volo in 2015, who finished third.
Praise for JJ’s Versatility
Andreas Mailath-Pokorny, rector of the Vienna arts and music university MUK, where JJ studies, praised the singer’s approach. “JJ’s cross-genre style demonstrates exceptional versatility and innovation,” he said.
JJ has dismissed comparisons to Swiss artist Nemo, who won last year, pointing out that there is no rap in his performance. He explains that “Wasted Love” reflects a time in his life when he “wasted too much love” without receiving any in return.
Eurovision History and Mentorship
Austria’s Eurovision victory in 1966 came with “Merci, Cherie” by Udo Juergens, a ballad about a breakup, performed by popular German singer Helene Fischer.
Conchita Wurst, Austria’s 2014 Eurovision winner, has described JJ as an impressive talent. “When JJ sings, it’s as if time stops,” Wurst said. The two singers recently released a duet, with JJ noting that Wurst has been offering him helpful tips ahead of Eurovision’s semi-final on May 15 and final on May 17 in Basel, Switzerland.
A Classical Background with Diverse Influences
JJ’s love for classical music was inspired by his father, an Austrian IT professional, who introduced him to composers like Bach and Mozart. His mother, a Filipino cook, exposed him to artists like Celine Dion and Whitney Houston. Growing up in Dubai, where his father established his business, JJ attended an international school and became fluent in German, English, and Tagalog, while also learning Arabic and French.
JJ believes Eurovision’s global audience offers a platform for all, including the LGBTQ community, to come together through music. “Music is a universal language that everyone understands,” he said.
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