What do the artists who took part in the previous two Benidorm Fest editions feel now? How has life shifted since their moments on stage? If one word could capture their mood, nostalgia comes up again—a powerful emotion as they return to the tourist capital where some of their dreams began to take shape. The first story belongs to the artist who carried Spain’s flag at Eurovision. Yet the festival’s impact goes beyond a single moment: it yielded a career boost for many, and they extend warm wishes for a long, thriving future to that earlier participant.
Castell de Benidorm became a gathering place for several competitors from earlier editions. In the room were RTVE Communications Director María Eizaguirre, Aritz, E’Femme, Fusa Nocta, José Otero, Megara, Meler, Sharonne, Twin Melody, Sara Deop, Xeinn, Vicco, Varry Brava, and Rayden, who also serves as an advisor this year.
The artist in question describes his current role as markedly different and calm, highlighting that the Benidorm Festival remains a focused event rather than a broad transition. He notes that the festival’s scope has widened in perspective even as the format remains recognizably familiar. Those who competed in earlier editions recount arriving in Benidorm a year or two after their performances, sharing impressions of the city and the evolving offerings. Some admit a touch of jealousy for this year’s contestants, yet homesickness mingles with a positive energy that comes from performing on such a stage, nerves included.
One of the voices in the room is Vicco. Her song from the festival, Night light, has become something of an anthem that keeps echoing. The competition represented a second chance in her career: “When I came to Benidorm, I was a girl chasing a dream; when it happened, it felt like a surprise. I’m grateful.” She adds that she sees herself reflected in other artists, and that inspires a certain envy. From hotel lobby chatter to rehearsals, she confesses, “I wish I could be in that position again because it’s incredibly cool.”
Benidorm Fest week opens with renewed emotion, and Varry Brava shares that same excitement with Vicco. They arrived with enthusiasm and left with appreciation for the city and the festival. The experience has sharpened their careers: television exposure brought new opportunities, and their music found a broader audience. The community around the festival is tight-knit, with people who love discussing music and meeting others who share the same passion.
Meler, who topped the public vote, expresses joy and nostalgia, recalling nerves from past contests and recognizing how far they have come. Twin Melody echoes a similar sentiment, relishing the chance to relive last year’s experiences. Xeinn notes that two years have passed since joining the scene, and Benidorm Fest has reached an impressive peak in visibility. Megara speaks of a calmer, yet deeply longing, perspective this year, admiring the journey even while feeling a touch of envy for those on stage now. The trio admits that tough moments are part of the path, but the reward makes the journey worthwhile.
Visibility for artists
José Otero stresses that Benidorm Fest opened doors in Spain, giving him the chance to work in his homeland and in a growing format that reaches new audiences. Rayden frames the festival as a means to put an artist on the map, connecting more people to a wider musical landscape. Sara Deop agrees that the festival brought positive developments and helped her grow as an artist. Aritz adds that since entering the competition, he has been exploring the kind of artist he wants to become.
Megara describes Benidorm Fest as more than a big stage for a band. It is a platform that demands a live performance with energy, even when the plan feels challenging. The grand scale, the technical team, and the atmosphere make those three minutes on stage feel like a personal moment because they own it entirely.
E’Femme regards experiencing another edition up close as a gift, a memory anchored in the moment it happened. The festival has opened doors for independent artists who were just starting out, making it possible to reach a large format they previously could only dream about. Sharonne adds that the festival’s aura fuels curiosity about what will unfold on stage, drawing attention to the artists and their offerings. It’s a platform that intrigues and inspires.
Yet performers who have already navigated semifinals or finals emphasize that Benidorm Fest embodies an identity that broadens access to the music industry. The public will ultimately choose the favorite, and that choice carries a lot of significance. As they await the Eurovision announcement, anticipation grows for next Saturday’s reveal.