Sam Ryder has become emotional when speaking about the impact that Eurovision had on his life.
Last year the singer was named runner-up in the song contest, with his song Space Man soaring up the charts.
Ahead of the 2023 competition, which has kicked off in Liverpool tonight, Sam, 33, teared up while speaking about his new single, and the journey he’s been on for it to come to fruition.
Appearing on The One Show alongside Graham Norton on Tuesday night, Sam was being interviewed by hosts Alex Jones and Ronan Keating when he was asked about the new song he’s set to perform during the Grand Final on Saturday night.
‘The last time I was speaking to you I said how much Eurovision meant to me and to so many other,’ Sam said.
‘It is about that togetherness and inclusivity and to have the opportunity to come back and to sing on that stage once again…I respect it and I want to make sure I use that opportunity to really show people that.’
He went on to say that it was’so meaningful to me’ before breaking down in tears.
As Alex pointed out, Sam was ‘getting emotional’.
When asked about being in Liverpool, Sam said it was ‘wonderful’ to be a part of the festivities again.
‘It’s so cool seeing everyone excited because there is a palpable energy of people getting on board,’ he said.
He also stated that he appreciated the fact that there was no pressure on him this time.
Sam will be playing his new track Mountain later this week, and while he couldn’t say much about it, he did mention it was composed on his sofa.
‘That is a bit of a rubbish fact but the performance is more inspiring,’ he joked.
‘It is about the trauma we all carry but don’t let define us. It is about seeing those problems but not seeing those obstacles as mountains.’
Continuing to ride the tide of success, Sam was crowned the finest ever UK Eurovision entry by BBC Radio 2 listeners last month.
Despite finishing second in Italy behind Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra, Sam’s itinerary is full after appearing at the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, this year’s Brit Awards, and the Royal Variety Performance.
The Eurovision Song Contest semi-finals are on BBC One on Tuesday May 9 and Thursday May 11 at 8pm. The grand final is on BBC One on Saturday May 13 at 8pm.
The One Show airs weekdays from 7pm on BBC One and BBC iPlayer.
