Singer Molly Smitten-Downes sees Eurovision as a chance to shine

Eurovision Song Contest singer Molly Smitten-Downes aims to launch her career in front of millions of viewers.

It may be viewed as a bit of a joke in some quarters but Brit hopeful Molly Smitten-Downes insists Eurovision’s no laughing matter.

The 26-year-old unknown is flying the flag for the UK next Saturday night.

She’s following in the footsteps of well-known names such as Blue and Engelbert Humperdinck.

“There is stigma around Eurovision, it would be foolish not to realise that,” admits Molly.

“But there are great acts that come through the contest and, at heart, it’s a songwriters’ competition.

“That’s what I’m doing it for. I’d like to have a career as a songwriter and where else am I going to get an opportunity for 180 million people to hear my work?

“I don’t feel pressure as myself but there is a positive pressure as the first of a new kind of artist being chosen to represent the UK.”

Leicestershire-born Molly, whose heroes include Kylie and Kate Bush, has been intent on a musical career since she was 15.

Her entry, Children of the Universe, was written especially for the contest as part of a new BBC initiative to bring through fresh talent.

“It was obviously very flattering to be considered as a possible contender,” said Molly.

“But I wanted to make sure it was a song that we’d be proud of in the long run and I’d still perform even if it wasn’t selected.”

Molly hails Sweden’s 2012 winner, Euphoria by Loreen, as her all-time favourite song, admiring how it was made a massive chart hit by those not put off by its Eurovision background.

Molly was previously part of dance act Stunt that had a Top 10 hit and has also supported big names such as Tinie Tempah and Labrinth. But she admits this is a whole new level.

“Oh, hands down this is the biggest audience I’ll ever have performed in front of.

“I’ve done festivals with about 25,000 people, so with regard to the arena, I’ve done bigger. But 180 million watching at home it’s almost impossible to get my head around that!”

The confident Molly has been heavily involved with getting the staging right in Copenhagen next Saturday.

And she says she’s had nothing but great support along the way.

“It really has been so positive,” she adds.

“I thought some people would be more cynical but everyone has been great. It’s all been a bit of a whirlwind in the past few weeks.

“I’ve gone from obscurity to a crazy schedule of filming, press tours and video shoots in no time at all. It’s been very busy, but a lot of fun.”