Eurovision 2024 Ukraine: meet Jerry Heil and alyona alyona

Jerry Heil and alyona alyona at the rehearsal of their performance for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. Photo: eurovision.tv

This year's Ukrainian entry to Eurovision is the melodic song "Teresa & Maria" by long-time collaborators Jerry Heil and alyona alyona. Together, they represent a new generation of original Ukrainian artists mixing different genres and styles, like pop, hip-hop, RnB, and traditional Ukrainian folk. In Ukraine, singer Jerry Heil is known for her distinctive singing style and witty songs, and rapper alyona alyona has been hailed for her versatile flow and relatable lyrics. Since 2022, these famous Ukrainian musicians have released an album together, toured in the US, and topped the charts on streaming platforms.

Their song "Teresa & Maria" is a worthy candidate for the first spot on Eurovision. It features a catchy beat and gentle guitar strings that immerse us in the story. Accompanied by the choir, Jerry Heil engages us with her expressive and versatile voice, shifting from gentle tones to passionate and soulful vocals. alyona alyona's presence as a rapper is commanding, and her flow is confident and rhythmic.

What is the meaning of the song?

Jerry Heil and alyona alyona have stated that this symbolic song is dedicated to strong women who persevere in the face of adversity and life's burdens. Despite the struggles women might face, they can find support in each other and power in themselves. "We are talking about the importance of unity," the artists say. "Even though, as Ukrainian women, we wrote this song about Ukraine, everyone in the world can see themselves in the lyrics."

While the chorus invokes two spiritual figures, Mama Teresa (Mother Teresa) and Diva Maria (the Virgin Mary), singers have said the song wasn't religious. According to them, these names symbolize hope and faith in oneself and others.

Who stages the performance?

Ukrainian video director Tanu Muiño on the set of "As It Was" by Harry Styles. Photo: Tanu Muiño

Ukrainian Tanu Muiño, a double Grammy Awards nominee and one of today's most famous music video directors, who collaborated with Jennifer Lopez, Dua Lipa, Cardi B, Harry Styles, Doja Cat, and others, will lead the production of Ukraine's performance at the Eurovision stage. Under her guidance, alyona alyona and Jerry Heil will perform the song "Teresa & Maria" as the fifth act in the lineup in the first semi-final of the contest. Tune in on May 7 and vote for Ukraine at Eurovision 2024!