Ruth Lawrence approached Benidorm Fest 2024 with a plan built on a memorable song, striking visuals, and a daring message. The aim was to empower women by letting a powerhouse vocal lead a campaign for women’s freedom. Yet a linguistic rule constrained the full expression of that vision: Spain’s competition historically allowed songs in Spanish, Basque, Catalan, Galician, and Aranese, with up to 40 percent of any other language. The rule was set for revision in a future edition, but changes were not immediate. Informal word spread just before the topic resurfaced, prompting a discussion that continued as RTVE issued guidelines preserving the existing constraint. This setback did not stop a strong return, and the controversy revived Benidorm Fest’s profile, echoing Eurovision’s enduring influence since 2014 and underscoring the need for a durable identity in the spotlight.
To secure a lasting place, the festival must present a clear, varied lineup that blends veteran artists with rising stars. Without this balance, there is a risk of alienating segments of the audience who feel detached from newer trends. This tension is not new: it helps explain why some fans connected with Chanel, Rigoberta Bandini, and Azúcar Moreno in the past, while others followed Blanca Paloma, Megara, Agoney, and related teams. The identity of the voting system — maintaining the same framework of 50 percent jury, 25 percent public votes, and 25 percent a demoscopic sample — remains to be confirmed. The finale was scheduled for February 3, and the lineup of soloists and groups under the Latin Grammy umbrella would be announced on November 11, with proposals due by October 10. In this context, sixteen names were highlighted as potential contenders capable of signaling a strong Benidorm Fest edition.
Ideal candidates emerge from a spectrum of experience and influence. Abraham Mateo has long been associated with the format, rising to prominence after his early work in drama and expanding into wider stardom. His breakout hit “Señorita” propelled him into the Latin American scene and led to collaborations with major artists such as Jennifer López, Yandel, 50 Cent, Alejandro Sanz, and Ana Mena. In a more mature phase, he champions projects that blend artistry with mass appeal, signaling a push toward success through a fusion of quality and popular resonance.
Maika Makovski stands out for a distinctive blend of Macedonian heritage, Andalusian sensibilities, and Balearic influence. Her journey spans pulp rock beginnings, touring with The Dubliners, and a collaboration with John Parish on a self-titled LP, culminating in MKMK, a project that centers art, life, and love as core themes. This emphasis on emotional resonance positions her as a standout in a field where authentic storytelling can move audiences deeply.
Judeline’s global concept has become a recent beacon in the national urban scene. Their work stresses image and visibility, with a strong focus on health and self-confidence under notable production guidance. The result is catchy refrains and expressive lines that captivate audiences, making songs like “Account I’ve emptied” memorable and persuasive as performances—an effective mix for audience engagement and artistic identity.
Copla traditions meet contemporary experimentation in Rodrigo Cuevas, a pioneer blending electro-influenced folk with zarzuela symbolism. His journey unfolds from a Galician village, tapping into the folk essence of tambourine players and evolving a sound that blurs the line between modern and classical. Cuevas challenges norms with humor, sensuality, and bold judgment, creating music that resonates across multiple senses and communities.
Leo Rizzi has risen as a monthly Spotify favorite, quickly becoming a pop phenomenon. With a following on TikTok, he crafts songs that travel widely—from Uruguay to the United States, Italy, and Australia. His work grows from a restless search for a creative niche, leading to a tender, intimate voice that highlights life’s small miracles and whispers them aloud.
Valeria Castro builds a sonic world rooted in sunshine and Canarian folklore. Her performances blend energy with intimate quiet moments, offering audiences emotional contrasts that feel immediate. Early versions of songs tied to established acts opened the door to social media, where her glassy voice and soft gaze drew listeners craving fresh, emotionally honest music. Her project Lovingly and Carefully marks a heartfelt commitment to craft that feels like home to many fans.
Competition chatter also turns to bands with a hint of illusion. The pop act pop illusion has weathered venue challenges since 2019, yet remains influential, crafting anthems that energize audiences beyond fashion or labels. They once aimed to represent Spain at Eurovision, but another act led the field instead, signaling the unpredictable nature of contest dynamics and the importance of timing and momentum.
Anna Colet commands attention with a growing European following, propelled by the success of Don Federico. Her work blends futuristic electronic textures with a dramatic edge, using irony as a storytelling tool. Her latest collaboration with Stefano Maccarrone supports a bold, rhythm-forward approach that translates well to the stage, delivering a tight three-minute showcase built on powerful energy and precision.
In a more rural, creatively rich space, Javi Heras crafted an album that mirrors a life-long immersion in multiple roles—from bassist with Los Fesser to vocalist with Young Forest and clarinetist with Chumi Chuma. His folk-influenced sound carries American singer-songwriter vibes with a Spanish twist, offering listeners a rare blend of authenticity and adventurous flavor.
Triquell represents a youthful force who reflects the current generation’s cultural diversity. At 23, she performs in Catalan, challenging norms and earning recognition on platforms like Eufòria before releasing an album that defies easy categorization. Her work, including tracks like Jugular, sparks vibrant energy and a bold rhythm that resonates with listeners—a likely catalyst for future votes.
Julia Medina has established herself as a prolific composer in Spain. Her second album Epicentro features tracks that blend tough lyrical honesty with pop sensibilities. Songs such as Luz de gas and Errores buenos reveal her wide lyrical range and steadfast commitment to authentic storytelling, shaping a musical landscape that values resilience and emotional depth.
María Pelae continues to fuse wit and cultural insight, anchoring her voice in flamenco roots while embracing freedom and modern sensibilities. Her artistry blends traditional influences with contemporary sensibilities, turning performances into courageous statements that elevate the art form while staying deeply personal.
Jimena Amarillo speaks with direct, heartfelt authenticity. Her rise began on social media, where indie sensibilities voiced personal frustrations in a candid, bubblegum-tinged style. Songs like Cafeliko and Cuando ya no quieres convey intimate messages that resonate with a broad audience, establishing a strong connection with listeners who value sincerity.
Kai Nakai brings feminist reggaeton to the fore, infusing Basque language into a genre long guided by dominant narratives. The project channels influences from Ivy Queen and Karol G, combining danceable energy with a social message. It seeks to rally audiences around a mission that challenges old stereotypes while inviting everyone to celebrate bold, inclusive music.
Between Zahara and Russian Red, a singer-songwriter explores life with a restrained, straightforward voice. Her music treats fate with tenderness and calm, offering a lucid perspective earned from experience. The result is a sincere journey inviting listeners to connect with honest, unadorned storytelling—a hallmark of artists who value clarity and emotional honesty.
Edurne, Ruth Lorenzo, and Pastora Soler helped revive a Spanish Eurovision spirit that had drifted for years. With Amanecer in 2015, Edurne pursued candidacy with a strong, hopeful message, finishing in a respectable position though the outcome underscored Spain’s enduring challenge at the festival: translating song into broad appeal. The current moment holds potential for revisiting those lessons and translating performance into wider resonance on the continental stage.