In the days leading up to the Benidorm Festival 2024 application deadline, activity around the RTVE music competition remains intense. Artists continue to press their case, while Eurofans eagerly debate possible contestants and speculate about who might take the stage. The buzz around which names could appear is widespread, and social media chatter runs hot with opinions on who should be in the lineup.
Among the voices in the mix, Rodrigo Cuevas stood out as a figure whose potential participation had generated considerable discussion. On Friday, he addressed the topic directly in a television appearance. During the program Cafè d’idees, broadcast by La 2 and hosted by Gemma Nierga, the Asturian artist made his position crystal clear: he has no intention of competing in the Benidorm Festival.
Cuevas did not shy away from explaining the rationale behind his decision. He highlighted the remarkably harsh reception that some European fans can exhibit and the impact it has on artists. He said he would rather not participate than subject himself to what he described as a painful, crowd-heavy experience. His view was simple and personal: he is older now, and contest participation does not fit his current plans.
He expressed a preference for audiences to discover his work through touchpoints like word of mouth, media interviews, radio, streaming platforms, or other channels outside the contest format. He added that he does not want to perform on such a crowded program at this stage of his career, especially if the environment becomes overwhelming. The comfort of his own audience matters more to him than a high-profile showcase on a crowded televised stage.
Cuevas also reflected on the broader cultural climate surrounding music competitions. He acknowledged that the competitive setting can carry a tense energy, not just in music but in other arenas as well, such as sports. His critique touched on how the atmosphere surrounding these events can sometimes skew public perception and cast a shadow over artists who simply want to share their artistry. His stance invites a wider conversation about how audiences engage with performers at large-scale showcases.
As anticipated, Cuevas’ remarks sparked a wave of reactions across social networks. Some fans appreciated his honesty, pointing out that the Eurofan community has, at times, displayed a level of toxicity that can affect participants. Others reminded observers that this kind of pressure is not unique to Eurovision follower groups; it is a dynamic that can emerge in many competitive fields, including sports, where the heat of public scrutiny is a constant factor. The dialogue underscores the tension between public interest in the festival and the personal well-being of artists who consider their options carefully before deciding how to present themselves to the world.