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| "Eaea" | ||||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Single by Blanca Paloma | ||||
| Language | Spanish | |||
| Released | 20 December 2022 | |||
| Genre | New flamenco | |||
| Length | 2:59 | |||
| Label | Universal | |||
| Songwriters |
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| Producer | José Pablo Polo | |||
| Blanca Paloma singles chronology | ||||
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| Music video | ||||
| "Eaea" on YouTube | ||||
| Eurovision Song Contest 2023 entry | ||||
| Country | ||||
| Artist | ||||
| Languages | ||||
| Composers |
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| Lyricists |
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| Finals performance | ||||
| Final result | 17th | |||
| Final points | 100 | |||
| Entry chronology | ||||
| ◄ "SloMo" (2022) | ||||
| "Zorra" (2024) ► | ||||
| Official performance video | ||||
| "Eaea" (Grand Final) on YouTube | ||||
"Eaea" (IPA: [eːäeːä]) is a song by Spanish singer Blanca Paloma. The song was co-written by Blanca Paloma alongside José Pablo Polo and Álvaro Tato, with Polo serving as the song's solo producer. It was released on 20 December 2022 through Universal. The song represented Spain in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, where it finished in 17th at the final with 100 points.
"Eaea" is described as a new flamenco lullaby that serves as a tribute an ode to Blanca Paloma's grandmother, Carmen, and the culture of the Spanish region of Andalusia. The song drew largely positive reception from both Spanish and international critics for its flamenco elements, Blanca Paloma's vocal abilities, and its unique musical nature.
Background and composition
[edit]"Eaea" was written by Blanca Paloma, José Pablo Polo, and Álvaro Tato.[1] The song is described as an "honour" to the singer's roots, as a "celebration of female ancestors' power and strength" and "a chant" to Blanca Paloma's grandmother Carmen, who having introduced her to flamenco, heavily inspired the song as well as much of Blanca Paloma's music.[2][3] The song and its accompanying dance performance features the "nurturing" of traditional Spanish sounds and flamenco styles.[4] It also features "flamenco handclaps", syncopated beats, and Arabic vocal lines "underscored with a pulsating synth line", fused with international elements which reflect Blanca Paloma's "trademark style" of mixing traditional musical elements with aspects of avant-garde and modern pop.[2][5]
With the song being heavily inspired by Carmen, it features various cultural aspects of Andalusian life, and is described as a lullaby in reference to both lyrics and composition.[3][6] According to Blanca Paloma, she first thought of writing the new flamenco song during a trip to a flamenco dance school at the Antón Martín market in Madrid.[6] In interviews, Blanca Paloma stated that she wrote "Eaea" as a tribute to Carmen's love towards her, taking inspiration from an Andalusian lullaby that mocked death, which Carmen used to sing to her.[3][7] She later added in an El Mundo interview that the song was meant to "fill the void" of Carmen's memory when she died.[8] The single's artwork features a photograph of Carmen, and a "representation of the power and strength" of Blanca Paloma's female ancestors is expressed via the performances' accompanying backing vocalists and dancers.[2]
When initially applying to Benidorm Fest 2023, Blanca Paloma sent two songs: "Eaea" and "Plumas de nácar", with Spanish broadcaster Radiotelevisión Española (RTVE) choosing the former to compete in the competition.[9] The song officially premiered on 18 December 2022 alongside all other Benidorm Fest 2023 songs[10] and was released on streaming platforms two days later.[a]
Music video and promotion
[edit]Along with the song's release, an accompanying music video directed by Angel Pastana was released on 9 March 2023, featuring five dancers: Paloma Scharfhausen, Angélica Moyano, Paula Valbuena, Paula Gironi, and Amanda Nóbrega.[11][12][13] The video featured a similar atmosphere to Blanca Paloma's performance at Benidorm Fest 2023, with the video featuring the addition of chairs. For Blanca Paloma, her standing up after sitting down from a chair represented to Blanca Paloma that "when I first started singing in front of a crowd, I did it while sitting because I didn't feel bold enough to do it while standing. Getting up from that chair represents the moment of claiming up my space as an artist."[13] The video also includes the addition of a shot of Blanca Paloma surrounded by approximately 300 candles;[13] in an analysis from La Vanguardia's Monica Paredes, the inclusion of candles represented "a way of invoking our ancestors and creating a women's rite".[14]
To further promote the song, Blanca Paloma announced her intent to perform at various Eurovision pre-parties before the contest during the months of March and April, including the Barcelona Eurovision Party on 25 March,[15] Israel Calling on 3 April,[16] Pre-Party ES 2023 on 8 April,[17] Eurovision in Concert on 15 April,[18] and the London Eurovision Party on 16 April.[19] She also made various appearance on television shows and art exhibitions, performing a specialized version of "Eaea" on Spanish talk show El Hormiguero on 14 February[20][21] and acoustic versions of the song during the ARCO art show on 23 February[22] and the Portuguese national final for Eurovision 2023, Festival da Canção 2023, on 25 February.[23]
Critical reception
[edit]Spanish media and personalities
[edit]In Spain, reactions to "Eaea" were mostly positive. El Mundo's Eduardo Álvarez wrote that while the song allowed Blanca Paloma to showcase her "vocal brilliance", he admitted that the song would only appeal to juries.[24] El País' Carlos Marcos compared Blanca Paloma's song to those of María José Llergo, describing it as "an interesting piece that brings cante jondo closer to electronic sound, creating an atmosphere with Lorca-esque connotations". He also added that Blanca Paloma sung "wonderfully".[25] The Conversation's José Luis Panea praised the song for its unusual nature, stating that the song was "an opportunity to take advantage of [Eurovision] and for professionals in the artistic field to contribute to creating suggestive and avant-garde imagery on public television, beyond the mainstream trends we are so accustomed to consuming".[26] Spanish representative for Eurovision 2022, Chanel Terrero, stated that she saw Blanca Paloma to be "very prepared... we have a chance of winning and I hope [it happens]".[27] In contrast, radio and television journalist Máximo Pradera criticised the song for sounding like a "Christmas carol", adding, "It is impossible for this trickster to win anything."[28]
International and Eurovision-related media
[edit]Amongst international media, reception was consistently positive. In a Wiwibloggs review containing reviews from several critics, the song was rated 8.17 out of 10 points,[29] coming fourth out of 37 songs on the site's annual ranking.[30] Vulture's Jon O'Brien ranked the song 17th overall, describing it as an "aggressively Spanish" song, praising Blanca Paloma's vocal abilities and stage presence.[31] Another three Vulture editors consisting of Charlie Harding, Nate Sloan, and Reanna Cruz all praised the song's connections to Spanish culture and flamenco, writing that the song was musically complex.[32] ESC Beat's Doron Lahav ranked the song first overall out of the 37 entries competing in Eurovision 2023, writing that Blanca Paloma had "very impressive vocal ability" that "put me to tears this year".[33]
BBC News' Mark Savage called the song as "one of the most musically intriguing entries" of Eurovision 2023, predicting a top three finish in the contest while adding that "a lot will ride on how Blanca Paloma's melismatic vocal performance can be recreated live".[34] The Guardian's Ben Beaumont–Thomas included the song in his "14 songs to listen out for at Eurovision 2023" list, describing it as "bold and engaging... the song wraps around you like a fluttering bolt of cloth". He later added that Blanca Paloma's vocal abilities featured "this year's most interesting vocal timbre".[35] i's Anna Bonet ranked it tenth out of the 26 finalists in Eurovision 2023, writing that the song was "bold, and bound to be divisive".[36] The Times' Ed Potten ranked the song fourth out of the 26 finalists, ranking it four out of five stars and described the song as "gratifyingly original".[37]
Eurovision Song Contest
[edit]Benidorm Fest 2023
[edit]Radiotelevisión Española (RTVE) organised an 18-song competition titled Benidorm Fest 2023 in order to select its entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. The competition was split into two rounds: the first round featured two, nine-song semi-finals on 31 January and 2 February, with the highest four placing songs from each semi-final advancing to an eight-song grand final on 4 February.[38] In all rounds, the voting system was determined by a 50/25/25 split of professional juries, a demographic panel, and a televote, respectively.[39]
"Eaea" was drawn to perform fifth in the second semi-final.[40] For its Benidorm Fest performance, Blanca Paloma wore an asymmetrical red top, black strips that covered the majority of her left arm, and white leather pants.[41] The staging featured red hanging fringes, which was a tribute to the clothing style of Blanca Paloma's grandmother displayed on the cover artwork of "Eaea".[42] Blanca Paloma is accompanied by three background dancers consisting of Angélica Moyano, Paula Valbuena, and Paloma Fernández, and two backing vocalists consisting of Desiré Paredes and Saray Frutos.[6] The six performers are described by Blanca Paloma to be performing "a rite of invocation, of trance, of catharsis, where somehow we connect with our ancestors, with the strength they have left each one of us".[8]
The song qualified from the second semi-final, coming in first with 167 points.[43] "Eaea" was later drawn to perform sixth in the grand final.[44] After the final results were announced, the song was revealed to have won the competition. "Eaea" finished first in the expert jury with 94 points, second in the demoscopic jury with 35 points, and first in the televote with 40.[45] The combined total of 169 points was 24 more than the runner-up, "Quiero arder" by Agoney.[46]
At Eurovision
[edit]The Eurovision Song Contest 2023 took place at the Liverpool Arena in Liverpool, United Kingdom, and consisted of two semi-finals held on the respective dates of 9 and 11 May, and the final on 13 May 2023. As Spain was a member of the contest's main sponsoring countries the "Big Five", "Eaea" automatically qualified for the grand final.[47] It was drawn to perform eighth in the final, ahead of Cyprus' "Break a Broken Heart" by Andrew Lambrou and before Sweden's "Tattoo" by Loreen.[48]

The Eurovision performance included tweaks to "elevate the song to a higher status".[49] The staging remained largely similar to the Benidorm Fest version, with slight changes to camera angles and lighting being made to accommodate for the Eurovision stage.[50][51][52] The red curtains, which were hanged from the roof during the Benidorm Fest performance, was now instead made transportable and movable.[53] Blanca Paloma wore an outfit designed by Paola de Diego and Raúl Amor that was made to look like an archer; according to El Mundo, the costume cost €12,650.[54]
The performance received mixed reactions. The Independent's Mark Beaumont described it as "a breathtaking performance that breaks innumerable Eurovision rules."[55] El País' Mariola Cubells stated, "Blanca Paloma did such a powerful performance, very dignified and very worked for. And we have to value the effort put into the performance being for TV, which was hard enough, was good."[56] Another writer for El País, Carlos Marcos, wrote that "Blanca Paloma had a powerful weapon: a huge, deep, pinching voice. Her interpretation was remarkable and the staging attractive without overdoing it."[57] In contrast, Mara Maionchi, commentator for the Italian broadcaster RAI, heavily criticised Blanca Paloma's vocals during her performance, comparing them to "a lullaby, but the child won't sleep anymore because she screams... too much [like a madwoman]".[58]
After the results were announced, the entry finished in 17th out of 26 finalists with 100 points, with a split score of ninth rank from 95 jury points and 26th last from five televoting points.[59] The song received no sets of 12 points. Regarding the former, the highest given was a set of ten points by Portugal. In televoting, the highest score given was a set of three points, also given by Portugal.[60] In response to her result, Blanca Paloma stated that she thought the finish was due to not "connect[ing] to as many people as we'd imagined".[61] She later stated to ABC that "I am happy with the execution. It was risky. I want to encourage people not to stop taking risks with different proposals."[62] El Mundo's Eduardo Álvarez declared in response to the result that "[she] did not deserve those shameful five points from the televote... However, Blanca Paloma has allowed us to dream in recent days to conquer the top of the podium".[63]
Charts
[edit]Release history
[edit]| Country | Version | Date | Format(s) | Label | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Various | Original | 20 December 2022 | Universal | [a] |
Notes
[edit]References
[edit]- ^ "Eurovision 2023 Spain profile: 'EAEA' by Blanca Paloma". Aussievision. 23 April 2023. Archived from the original on 18 May 2024. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ a b c Savage, Mark (6 April 2023). "Eurovision 2023: Every song ranked, from Albania to the UK". BBC. Retrieved 12 May 2023.
- ^ a b c Fuster, Luis (3 February 2023). "Shelter for your grief: The story behind Blanca Paloma's flamenco lullaby "Eaea"". Wiwibloggs. Retrieved 4 February 2023.
- ^ "Spain's avant-garde pop queen: Ya ea ea! It's Blanca Paloma!". Eurovision Song Contest. 10 May 2023. Retrieved 12 May 2023.
- ^ "Participants - Blanca Paloma". Eurovision Song Contest. Retrieved 14 May 2023.
- ^ a b c Martínez, Héctor Llanos (3 February 2023). "Blanca Paloma y el círculo lorquiano de poder femenino de 'Eaea', una de las favoritas del Benidorm Fest 2023" [Blanca Paloma and the Lorca circle of female power of 'Eaea', one of the favorites of Benidorm Fest 2023]. El País. Archived from the original on 14 November 2024. Retrieved 6 December 2024.
- ^ Rus, Óscar (13 May 2023). "Quién es la yaya Carmen, la abuela fallecida de Blanca Paloma que inspiró 'Eaea' para ganar Eurovisión" [Who is yaya Carmen, Blanca Paloma's deceased grandmother who inspired 'Eaea' to win Eurovision?]. ABC (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 May 2023. Retrieved 8 December 2024.
- ^ a b Polo, Sara (3 February 2023). "Blanca Paloma, finalista Benidorm Fest 2023 con un rito de invocación femenino: 'Es un trance, una conexión con nuestras ancestras'" [Blanca Paloma, Benidorm Fest 2023 finalist with a female invocation rite: 'It is a trance, a connection with our ancestors']. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 27 March 2023. Retrieved 11 December 2024.
- ^ Mas, A. (13 May 2023). "Eaea, la canción de Blanca Paloma para representar a España en Eurovisión 2023: letra y significado" [Eaea, Blanca Paloma's song to represent Spain at Eurovision Song Contest 2023: lyrics and meaning]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ Fuster, Luis (18 December 2024). "Listen: Spain reveals all 18 Benidorm Fest 2023 entries". Wiwibloggs. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ Davies, Meg (9 March 2023). "🇪🇸 Spain: Blanca Paloma Releases "Eaea" Music Video". Eurovoix. Archived from the original on 16 March 2023. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
- ^ Jiandani, Sanjay (10 March 2023). "Spain: Blanca Paloma releases the official music video of 'EaEa'". ESCToday. Archived from the original on 24 May 2024. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
- ^ a b c "Así es el videoclip de Eaea, la canción con la que Blanca Paloma representará a España en Eurovisión 2023" [This is the videoclip of Eaea, the song which Blanca Paloma will represent Spain in Eurovision 2023 with]. El Mundo (in Spanish). 10 March 2023. Archived from the original on 29 March 2023. Retrieved 17 November 2024.
- ^ Paredes, Monica (10 March 2023). "El simbolismo del videoclip de Blanca Paloma y su 'EaEa' para Eurovisión 2023: sillas, 300 velas y un hipnótico juego de luces y sombras" [The symbolism of the video clip of Blanca Paloma and "EaEa" for Eurovision 2023: chairs, 300 candles, and a hypnotic game of lights and shadows]. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 11 March 2023. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ J, Tim (10 March 2023). "🇪🇸 Blanca Paloma to perform at Barcelona Eurovision Party 2023". That Eurovision Site. Archived from the original on 9 December 2023. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Lee, Samuel (1 April 2023). "Eurovision 2023: 'Israel Calling 2023' Tel Aviv Pre-party preview". Aussievision. Archived from the original on 15 July 2024. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Granger, Anthony (3 March 2023). "🇪🇸 Spain: Blanca Paloma Hosting PrePartyES 2023". Eurovoix. Archived from the original on 8 March 2023. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ J, Tim (7 March 2023). "🇪🇸 Blanca Paloma to perform at Eurovision in Concert 2023". That Eurovision Site. Archived from the original on 30 September 2023. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Adams, Oliver (17 March 2023). "Spain's Blanca Paloma confirmed for London Eurovision Party 2023". Wiwibloggs. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Molina, Nacho (14 February 2023). ""Lo has preparado en una tarde": Blanca Paloma impresiona en 'El Hormiguero' con la nueva versión de 'Eaea'" ["You prepared it in one afternoon": Blanca Paloma impresses on 'El Hormiguero' with the new version of 'Eaea']. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 March 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ Mucientes, Esther (15 February 2024). "El Hormiguero | Blanca Paloma "acojona" a Pablo Motos" [Blanca Paloma "scares" Pablo Motos]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 15 May 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ "Blanca Paloma canta a los Reyes su Eaea antes de Eurovisión: "Me lo ha pedido Letizia"" [Blanca Paloma sings her Eaea to the Kings before Eurovision: "Letizia asked me to do it"]. El Mundo (in Spanish). 24 February 2024. Archived from the original on 12 April 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ "Así ha sido la actuación de Blanca Paloma en la televisión portuguesa" [This has been Blanca Paloma's performance on Portuguese television]. El Mundo (in Spanish). 27 February 2023. Archived from the original on 27 March 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ Álvarez, Eduardo (29 January 2023). "De los favoritos del Benidorm Fest a los candidatos que parecen una broma" [From Benidorm Fest favourites to candidates who seem like a joke]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 2 January 2024. Retrieved 11 November 2024.
- ^ Marcos, Carlos (19 December 2022). "Infames, machaconas y alguna conmovedora: análisis de las 18 canciones de Benidorm Fest 2023" [Infamous, repetitive and some moving: analysis of the 18 songs of Benidorm Fest 2023]. El País (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 November 2024. Retrieved 16 November 2024.
- ^ Panea, José Luis (27 March 2023). "El Benidorm Fest, Blanca Paloma y la apuesta por la 'marca España'" [Benidorm Fest, Blanca Paloma and the commitment to the 'Spain brand']. The Conversation. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ "Chanel es optimista con Blanca Paloma en Eurovisión: "Tenemos posibilidades de ganar"" [Chanel is optimistic about Blanca Paloma at Eurovision: “We have a chance of winning”]. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). 12 May 2023. Archived from the original on 19 May 2023. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Parades, Mónica (6 February 2023). "La dura crítica de un presentador contra Blanca Paloma: "Es imposible que este truño gane nada"" [The harsh criticism of a presenter against Blanca Paloma: "It is impossible for this fool to win anything"]. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 20 March 2023. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ "Wiwi Jury: Spain's Blanca Paloma with "Eaea"". Wiwibloggs. 27 April 2023. Retrieved 9 November 2024.
- ^ Vautrey, Jonathan (9 April 2023). "Eurovision 2023: Reviews and rankings by the Wiwi Jury". Wiwibloggs. Archived from the original on 12 August 2024. Retrieved 7 August 2024.
- ^ O'Brien, Jon (9 May 2023). "All 37 of This Year's Eurovision Song Entries, Ranked". Vulture. Archived from the original on 9 May 2023. Retrieved 7 August 2024.
- ^ Cruz, Reanna; Harding, Charlie; Sloan, Nate (5 May 2023). "Let's Give a Close Listen to Eurovision 2023's Six Front-runners". Vulture. Archived from the original on 5 May 2023. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
- ^ Lahav, Doron (30 April 2023). "Eurovision 2023 Songs Review – Part 7 (Germany, France, Italy, Ukraine, Spain, UK)". ESC Beat. Archived from the original on 11 December 2023. Retrieved 10 November 2024.
- ^ Savage, Mark (5 April 2023). "Eurovision 2023: Every song ranked, from Albania to the UK". BBC News. Archived from the original on 9 April 2023. Retrieved 24 September 2024.
- ^ Beaumont–Thomas, Ben (9 May 2023). "Unicorns, smoothies and Edgar Allan Poe: 14 songs to listen out for at Eurovision 2023". The Guardian. ISSN 0261-3077. Archived from the original on 12 August 2024. Retrieved 7 August 2024.
- ^ Bonet, Anna (12 May 2023). "All the Eurovision 2023 finale acts, ranked". i. Archived from the original on 27 September 2024. Retrieved 24 September 2024.
- ^ Potton, Ed (13 May 2023). "Who will win Eurovision 2023? The 26 finalists rated". The Times. Archived from the original on 27 September 2024. Retrieved 24 September 2024.
- ^ Fuster, Luis (19 July 2022). "Benidorm Fest 2023: Grand final date set for February 4". Wiwibloggs. Archived from the original on 26 July 2022. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ Adams, William Lee (20 July 2022). "Benidorm Fest 2023: Voting system remains the same...but with new jury members Nacho Cano and Christer Björkman". Wiwibloggs. Retrieved 13 November 2024.
- ^ "🇪🇸 Running order for Benidorm Fest Semi-Final 2 revealed". That Eurovision Site. 2 February 2023. Archived from the original on 6 December 2023. Retrieved 22 November 2024.
- ^ Sierra, Cristina (3 February 2024). "Negro y moda K-Pop: Analizamos todos los looks de la segunda semifinal del Benidorm Fest" [Black and K-Pop fashion: We analyze all the looks of the second semifinal of Benidorm Fest]. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 26 March 2023. Retrieved 22 November 2024.
- ^ Paredes, Monica (6 February 2023). "Blanca Paloma revela el homenaje oculto a su abuela durante la actuación del Benidorm Fest" [Blanca Paloma reveals hidden tribute to her grandmother during Benidorm Fest performance]. La Vanguardia (in Spanish). Retrieved 2 December 2024.
- ^ Polo, Sara (2 February 2023). "Blanca Paloma vuela alto a la final del Benidorm Fest tras una victoria sin paliativos" [Blanca Paloma flies high to the Benidorm Fest final after an unmitigated victory]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 29 March 2023. Retrieved 6 December 2024.
- ^ Granger, Anthony (3 February 2023). "🇪🇸 Spain: Benidorm Fest 2023 Final Running Order". Eurovoix. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ Baugh, Samuel George (4 February 2023). "Spain: Blanca Paloma wins Benidorm Fest 2023". Wiwibloggs. Archived from the original on 5 December 2023. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ Polo, Sara (4 February 2023). "Blanca Paloma gana el Benidorm Fest y representará a España en Eurovisión". El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 24 March 2023. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ "Eurovision 2023 Big-5 draw: Which half of the final?". Eurovision World. 6 May 2023. Retrieved 11 November 2024.
- ^ Adams, William Lee (11 May 2023). "Eurovision 2023: Grand Final Running Order". Wiwibloggs. Archived from the original on 12 August 2024. Retrieved 6 August 2024.
- ^ Granger, Anthony (13 March 2023). "🇪🇸 Spain: "Eaea" Undergoes Changes for Eurovision". Eurovoix. Archived from the original on 20 March 2023. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Lahav, Doron (6 May 2023). "Eurovision 2023 Rehearsals Day 7". ESC Beat. Archived from the original on 8 December 2023. Retrieved 19 November 2024.
- ^ "El 'fiasco' de la BBC que ha obligado a cambiar la actuación de Blanca Paloma antes de Eurovisión" [The 'fiasco' of the BBC that has forced to change the performance of Blanca Paloma before Eurovision]. ABC (in Spanish). 8 May 2023. Retrieved 22 November 2024.
- ^ Mucientes, Esther; Polo, Sara (13 May 2023). "El rompedor abrazo de la yaya Carmen a Blanca Paloma" [Yaya Carmen's breakthrough embrace of Blanca Paloma]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 May 2023. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- ^ "Así ha sido el primer ensayo de Blanca Paloma en Eurovisión 2023" [This was the first rehearsal of Blanca Paloma at Eurovision 2023]. ABC (in Spanish). 4 May 2023. Retrieved 22 November 2024.
- ^ "Desvelado el precio del vestuario de Blanca Paloma en Eurovisión: 12.650 euros para lucir como una arquera" [Price of Blanca Paloma's Eurovision costume revealed: 12,650 euros to look like an archer]. El Mundo (in Spanish). 5 May 2023. Archived from the original on 12 May 2023. Retrieved 27 November 2024.
- ^ Beaumont, Mark (15 May 2023). "Eurovision 2023 review: Poe couldn't have scripted it better". The Independent. Archived from the original on 3 December 2024. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Marcos, Natalia (14 May 2023). "Cinco expertos analizan Eurovisión: ¿qué falló en la actuación de Blanca Paloma? ¿Es Suecia una justa ganadora?" [Five experts analyze Eurovision: What failed in Blanca Paloma's performance? Is Sweden a fair winner?]. El País (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 4 February 2024. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Marcos, Carlos (14 May 2023). "Eurovisión 2023: aburrida victoria de Suecia e injusto el televoto con Blanca Paloma" [Eurovision 2023: boring victory for Sweden and unfair televote for Blanca Paloma]. El País (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 29 May 2023. Retrieved 22 November 2024.
- ^ Rus, Óscar (12 May 2023). "Una comentarista de la RAI descalifica a Blanca Paloma por «gritar como una loca»" [A RAI commentator disqualifies Blanca Paloma for “shouting like a madwoman”.]. ABC (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 12 May 2023. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Martínez, Héctor Llanos (14 May 2023). "Loreen vuelve a ganar Eurovisión para Suecia y Blanca Paloma queda en la posición 17" [Loreen wins Eurovision again for Sweden and Blanca Paloma is in 17th place]. El País (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 29 May 2023. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ "Grand Final of Liverpool 2023 - Spain Grand Final Results Allocation". Eurovision Song Contest. European Broadcasting Union. Archived from the original on 14 May 2023. Retrieved 14 November 2024.
- ^ Fresneda, Carlos; Mucientes, Esther (14 May 2023). "Las claves del desastre de Blanca Paloma en Eurovisión: del televoto a la incomprensión" [The keys to Blanca Paloma's disaster in Eurovision: from televote to misunderstanding]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 2 February 2024. Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Rus, Óscar (14 May 2023). "La primera reacción de Blanca Paloma tras su mal resultado en Eurovisión 2023" [Blanca Paloma's first reaction after her bad result at Eurovision 2023]. ABC (in Spanish). Retrieved 18 November 2024.
- ^ Álvarez, Eduardo (13 May 2023). "Benditas entre todas las mujeres sois Loreen y Blanca Paloma" [Blessed among all women you are Loreen and Blanca Paloma]. El Mundo (in Spanish). Archived from the original on 14 May 2023. Retrieved 6 December 2024.
- ^ "2023 20-os savaitės klausomiausi (Top 100)" (in Lithuanian). AGATA. 19 May 2023. Archived from the original on 19 May 2023. Retrieved 19 May 2023.
Primary sources
In the text, these references are preceded by a double dagger (‡):
- ^ Citations regarding the digital download release of "Eaea" in various countries:
- "Eaea - Song by Blanca Paloma". Apple Music (DE). 20 December 2022. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- "Eaea - Song by Blanca Paloma on Apple Music". Apple Music (GB). 20 December 2022. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- "Eaea - Song by Blanca Paloma". Apple Music (US). 20 December 2022. Archived from the original on 8 March 2023. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
- "Eaea - Song by Blanca Paloma on Apple Music". Apple Music (TR). 20 December 2022. Archived from the original on 6 July 2023. Retrieved 12 December 2024.
Background and development
Inspiration and writing
"Eaea" was co-written by Spanish singer Blanca Paloma, alongside composers José Pablo Polo and lyricist Álvaro Tato, who collaborated to blend personal narrative with cultural elements.[4][5] The song emerged from Blanca Paloma's reflections on her family heritage, specifically drawing inspiration from her late grandmother, Carmen, whose nurturing presence shaped the artist's early life.[6][7] The core concept developed as a tribute to maternal figures, evoking the comforting rituals of childhood through a modern lullaby structure rooted in Andalusian traditions. Blanca Paloma has shared that her grandmother would sing traditional songs from her Sevillan roots to soothe her as a child, infusing the track with themes of protection and legacy.[6][7] This personal motivation intertwined with flamenco influences, honoring the expressive depth of Spanish folk practices passed down through generations.[8] The initial writing process began in late 2022, as Blanca Paloma, Polo, and Tato worked to craft lyrics and music that captured this intimate homage. The collaboration focused on creating an emotional chant-like piece, with the song first released on December 20, 2022, ahead of its selection for Spain's Eurovision entry.[9][10]Recording and production
"Eaea" was produced by José Pablo Polo at studios in Spain, where he also served as co-writer alongside Blanca Paloma and Álvaro Tato. The track's mixing was handled by Vicent Huma, while Pablo Schuller managed the mastering process. Following the song's win at Benidorm Fest in February 2023, Polo made revisions to adapt it for the Eurovision stage.[9] Clocking in at 2:59 minutes, the song blends traditional flamenco rhythms—characterized by syncopated percussion elements such as palmas (handclaps)—with modern electronic synth layers to create its distinctive sound. Production choices emphasized vocal layering to evoke a ritualistic, ethereal quality, drawing on flamenco's emotive delivery while integrating avant-garde electronic production techniques.[11][4]Music and lyrics
Musical style
"Eaea" is classified as new flamenco, or flamenco nuevo, a genre that fuses traditional flamenco elements with contemporary electronic and pop influences.[12][13][14] This blend draws from Spain's musical heritage, incorporating microtonal vocal bends reminiscent of flamenco and Arab influences, while updating the sound through synthesizers and electronic beats.[14][15] The song maintains a fast flamenco rhythm, propelled by percussive hand claps and polyrhythmic patterns at approximately 116 beats per minute, evoking the intricate footwork and palmas of traditional flamenco.[16][14] Its structure follows a classic verse-chorus format, with flamenco-inspired builds that intensify through layered choral elements and escalating percussion in the choruses.[17][18] Blanca Paloma's vocal delivery is characterized by her distinctive style, featuring emotional phrasing, primal wails, and ad-libbed flourishes that add haunting depth and intensity to the performance.[15][14] These elements, combined with a choir of female voices echoing the titular "eaea" refrain, create a cinematic and ritualistic flow that emphasizes the song's avant-garde pop sensibilities.[8][17]Themes and lyrics
"Eaea" is sung entirely in Spanish and serves as a poignant lullaby exploring themes of motherhood, loss, and enduring comfort. The lyrics depict a mother's tender address to her child, offering solace amid grief and promising eternal vigilance even after death. This narrative draws from personal familial bonds, with Blanca Paloma briefly noting the song's roots in her grandmother's influence during its creation.[7] Central to the song is the repeated refrain "eaea," a sequence of nonsense syllables that mimic the soothing, rhythmic chants of a lullaby, evoking memories of childhood innocence and maternal protection. These sounds symbolize a non-verbal form of comfort, transcending literal words to convey emotional heritage passed down through generations. In interviews, Paloma emphasized the importance of connecting with her roots through such elements, blending intimacy with cultural depth.[19][7] The lyrics weave in cultural ties to Spanish flamenco and Andalusian folklore, incorporating motifs of death mocked through song, a tradition from Seville where Paloma's heritage lies. A key excerpt illustrates this: "Mi niño, cuando me muera / Que me entierren en la luna / Y to’as las noches te vea / To’as las noches menos una" (translated as "My child, when I die / May they bury me in the Moon / So that I’ll see you every night / Every night but one"). Here, the moon represents a celestial shrine from which the mother watches over her child, symbolizing love's triumph over mortality, while "every night but one" alludes to the uncertainty of the afterlife in Andalusian lore. Another line, "Lagrimitas del Nilo, noches en vela" ("Little tears from the Nile, sleepless nights"), evokes biblical imagery of sorrow and maternal vigilance, reinforcing themes of loss and resilience. Paloma has cited Federico García Lorca's influence, whose works often romanticize Andalusian folklore and the moon as a symbol of longing and death.[7][20][21]Promotion
Music video
The official music video for "Eaea" was directed by Ángel Pastrana and premiered on March 9, 2023, via an exclusive broadcast on RTVE, attracting just under 700,000 viewers.[22][23] The production was handled by RTVE in collaboration with El Cuervo Producciones, emphasizing a surreal aesthetic that blends flamenco-inspired elements with dreamlike visuals.[24] Blanca Paloma appears throughout in traditional Spanish attire, including a black mantilla veil, underscoring the song's roots as a flamenco lullaby tribute to her grandmother and Andalusian heritage.[25] Key scenes feature intense flamenco dance sequences, where she performs intricate footwork and gestures amid ethereal settings, symbolizing emotional trance and familial connection.[26] Other symbolic elements include her seated amid over 300 flickering candles to evoke introspection and loss, as well as floating white fabrics and levitating chairs that enhance the otherworldly atmosphere tied to the track's themes of maternal legacy and cultural ritual.[27][25] Following the TV premiere, the video was uploaded to the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel, where it quickly gained traction and has since accumulated over 2.1 million views.[28]Pre-Eurovision performances
Following her win at Benidorm Fest on 4 February 2023, Blanca Paloma appeared on several Spanish television programs to promote "Eaea". On 14 February, she delivered an exclusive acoustic rendition on El Hormiguero, a popular Antena 3 talk show, where host Pablo Motos praised the performance for its emotional depth and spontaneity, noting it was prepared in just one afternoon, which captivated the studio audience and left them visibly moved.[29] This appearance highlighted her vocal versatility while previewing the song's flamenco-inspired intimacy in a stripped-down format. To build international buzz ahead of the contest, Blanca Paloma performed "Eaea" at key Eurovision pre-parties across Europe in March and April 2023. On 25 March, she took the stage at the Barcelona Eurovision Party, incorporating flamenco dance elements with backing performers that emphasized the song's rhythmic bulería style, earning enthusiastic applause from the crowd for her commanding stage presence and cultural authenticity, though some observers noted the intimate venue amplified the performance's raw energy.[30] She followed this on 7 April by hosting and performing at PrePartyES in Madrid's La Riviera venue, where the integration of traditional flamenco footwork and handclaps previewed her evolving staging, drawing positive media comments on the event's welcoming atmosphere and her seamless blend of tradition and modernity. Blanca Paloma continued her promotional tour with a live rendition at Eurovision in Concert in Amsterdam on 15 April, featuring similar flamenco dance integrations that showcased synchronized movements to the song's syncopated beats, receiving acclaim from international fans for its hypnotic quality and vocal precision in the larger AFAS Live arena.[31] These pre-contest events allowed her to refine the performance's visual and choreographic components, with brief audience reactions highlighting the growing excitement around Spain's entry.[32]Critical reception
Spanish media
Spanish media outlets praised "Eaea" for its cultural authenticity and deep connection to flamenco traditions, highlighting its role as a modern tribute to Spanish heritage. In El País, the song's selection through Benidorm Fest was described as a "consensus" victory without controversy, fostering an "incipiente culto" (incipient cult) around Blanca Paloma for blending traditional elements with contemporary innovation.[33] RTVE emphasized the track's homage to the artist's roots and her grandmother Carmen, portraying it as an exaltation of generational love passed through lullabies, infused with flamenco essence.[34] Flamenco experts and cultural commentators lauded the vocal innovation in "Eaea," noting its emotional depth and revival of flamenco in a pop context. Diario de Sevilla acclaimed the song as a "nana tradicional jonda a ritmo de bulerías" with electronic arrangements, stating that "España está preparada" for this fresh take on flamenco, which captures raw emotional intensity through Paloma's powerful delivery.[35] Musicóloga Zara Codeseira, in El Confidencial, highlighted the track's potential to resonate emotionally by drawing on flamenco's cathartic qualities, describing it as a "nana vanguardista" that innovates vocally while honoring ancestral narratives.[36] Spanish celebrities expressed strong support for the song's flamenco revival and heartfelt lyrics. Actor Antonio Banderas advised Paloma to "ámalo" (love it) in both good and bad times, praising her dedication to the profession and implicitly endorsing the authenticity of "Eaea" during their encounter at the Premios Talía.[37] Fellow artists like Chanel and Tony Aguilar sent messages of encouragement via RTVE, celebrating the song's bold fusion of tradition and modernity as a proud representation of Spanish identity.[38] National press extensively covered the Benidorm Fest win, framing it as a triumph for cultural revival. Esquire noted that "Eaea" and Paloma's performance "gritan España por los cuatro costados" (scream Spain from all sides), appreciating its unapologetic embrace of national sounds in a global contest.[39] Vogue portrayed the victory as an "oda al rito, el flamenco y las mujeres" (ode to rite, flamenco, and women), underscoring the song's empowering themes of ancestry and resilience.[40]International media
International media coverage of "Eaea" highlighted its bold fusion of traditional flamenco with modern elements, often praising its cultural depth while noting challenges in broader accessibility. The Wiwi Jury from Wiwibloggs awarded the entry an average score of 8.17 out of 10, commending Blanca Paloma's stellar and powerful vocals as well as the dynamic staging that enhanced the performance's visual impact.[15] Eurovision-focused outlets emphasized the song's role in representing Spanish heritage, with reviewers appreciating how it modernized flamenco through keening vocal delivery and analogue-techno effects, serving as an ode to the artist's grandmother and Andalusian roots. ESC Today described the Benidorm Fest performance as mesmerizing, underscoring its emotional and cultural resonance in introducing authentic flamenco traditions to a global audience.[41][42] Feedback was mixed regarding the flamenco style's accessibility, with some international commentators finding its repetitive structure and regional flavor limiting for non-Spanish listeners, potentially hindering widespread appeal despite its artistic innovation. The Guardian noted the absence of a conventional melody, portraying it as an instinctive, soul-exploring experience that wraps around the listener like fluttering cloth, which added to its experimental allure but may have alienated those seeking more familiar pop conventions.[15][41] Post-Eurovision analyses in European press reflected on "Eaea"'s 17th-place finish as a testament to the risks of cultural specificity in a diverse contest, yet celebrated its contribution to elevating underrepresented flamenco influences on the international stage. Wiwibloggs reported Blanca Paloma's own reflection encouraging continued support for such creative, tradition-rooted entries to foster greater diversity in future editions.[43]Eurovision Song Contest 2023
Benidorm Fest selection
Benidorm Fest 2023 served as Spain's national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, organized by broadcaster RTVE and held from 31 January to 4 February at the Palau Municipal d'Esports l'Illa in Benidorm. The event featured two semi-finals on 31 January and 2 February, each with nine competing entries, from which four advanced to the final based on a combined vote of 50% expert jury, 25% demoscopic panel, and 25% televote.[44] The grand final on 4 February included eight acts, with the winner determined by 50% expert jury votes and 50% public votes, the latter split equally between televoting and a demoscopic sample of 350 participants.[45] Blanca Paloma's "Eaea" participated in the second semi-final on 2 February, performing sixth in the running order among entries including Vicco's "Nochentera", Karmento's "Quiero y duelo", and Famous Oberogo's "La Lola".[46][47] The song secured first place with 167 points, advancing alongside Vicco (135 points), Karmento (107 points), and Famous Oberogo (81 points), thanks to strong support from the jury (92 points), demoscopic panel (35 points), and televote (40 points).[48][49] In the final, "Eaea" competed against qualifiers from the first semi-final—Agoney's "Quiero arder", Fusa Nocta’s "Mi familia", Alice Wonder's "Yo quisiera", and Megara's "Arcadia"—as well as the other second semi-final advancers: Vicco's "Nochentera", Karmento's "Quiero y duelo", and Famous Oberogo's "La Lola". Blanca Paloma delivered the performance sixth, featuring staging with two central red fringed semi-circular structures evoking traditional Spanish shawls, accompanied by backing dancers in coordinated red attire to emphasize flamenco-inspired movements and cultural roots. The visual elements paid homage to the singer's grandmother's style, enhancing the song's themes of matriarchal legacy and emotional intensity.[50][51] "Eaea" emerged victorious with 169 points, earning 94 from the jury and 75 from the public vote, including top scores of 12 points from both the jury and televote, outperforming Agoney (145 points) and securing Spain's Eurovision entry.[52][53]Performance and results
"Eaea" was performed eighth in the grand final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023, held on 13 May 2023 at the M&S Bank Arena in Liverpool, United Kingdom.[54] Following her victory at Benidorm Fest, Blanca Paloma delivered the song with a staging that emphasized its flamenco roots while adapting to the international arena.[45] The performance featured Blanca Paloma in sleek white trousers and a red top, joined by five dancers incorporating traditional flamenco movements to evoke strength and emotion.[8] Central to the staging were two red fringed semi-circular structures surrounding the performers, serving as a tribute to the artist's grandmother and enhancing the intimate, ritualistic atmosphere.[55] LED screens displayed flamenco-inspired imagery, including dancers and clapping hands, complemented by floor projections of an expanding red circle and dynamic black, red, and white lighting that intensified during key moments.[56] During rehearsals, the production team made subtle tweaks to the Benidorm Fest version, primarily in the second half, including refined sound mixing and lighting adjustments to suit the larger stage and elevate the song's dramatic build.[57] These changes maintained the core flamenco essence while amplifying the visual and auditory impact for the global audience.[55] In the final results, "Eaea" placed 17th out of 26 entries, earning a total of 100 points: 95 from the professional juries and 5 from the televote.[58]Commercial performance
Charts
"Eaea" achieved modest chart performance internationally following its release in February 2023 and performance at the Eurovision Song Contest 2023. The song's exposure from the contest provided a temporary boost in select markets, but its mid-table finish limited broader commercial traction.[59] In Lithuania, "Eaea" entered the AGATA Lithuanian Singles Top 100 as a new entry at number 67 during the chart week of May 12–18, 2023, immediately after the Eurovision final. It spent only one week on the chart, reflecting the event's regional influence on streaming and sales in Eurovision-participating countries.[60] The track did not appear on major global charts, including the UK Official Singles Chart Top 100 for the week ending May 19, 2023, where higher-placing Eurovision entries like Sweden's "Tattoo" and Finland's "Cha Cha Cha" debuted in the top 10. Similarly, it failed to enter the Billboard Global 200, where only top contest performers such as "Tattoo" (debuting at number 15) gained entry. This pattern underscores how Eurovision results often drive post-contest chart momentum, favoring winners and podium finishers over mid-field entries like Spain's 17th-place showing.[61][62]Certifications and sales
"Eaea" has not received any official certifications from major music industry bodies, such as PROMUSICAE in Spain or international equivalents, as of November 2025. On streaming platforms, the single has garnered approximately 9.85 million plays on Spotify worldwide by late October 2025, reflecting sustained interest following its Eurovision performance.[63] Estimated physical and digital sales figures for "Eaea" remain limited and unreported in public sources, with no comparable data available to previous Spanish Eurovision entries like those achieving higher commercial thresholds in prior years.[64]Release history
| Region | Date | Format | Label |
|---|---|---|---|
| Various | 20 December 2022 | Digital download | Universal Music Publishing[65] |
