Lorraine Williamson
Spain’s Eurovision 2025 hopes rest on the shoulders of singer Melody, who will represent the country with her track Esa diva.
The song, which promotes inclusion and women’s empowerment, has received a mixed response. However, Melody’s experience and strong performance have brought renewed attention to Spain’s chances at the contest.
From early stardom to Eurovision stage
Melodía Ruiz Gutiérrez, known professionally as Melody, rose to fame at just ten years old with her 2001 hit El baile del gorila. Now 34, she returns to the spotlight in one of the world’s most-watched music competitions. Over the years, Melody has established herself in Spain as a singer, dancer, and TV personality. Eurovision presents a new challenge — and potentially a defining moment in her career.
Empowerment and theatrics in Esa diva
Esa diva began as a flamenco-influenced song but has since been reworked to include Latin and electro-pop elements. Melody’s on-stage performance includes dramatic visuals, such as a digital effect of the stage cracking open and a bold costume change from a long gown to a glittering silver jumpsuit. These theatrical moments aim to highlight the song’s core message of transformation and empowerment.
Critics question Spain’s Eurovision strategy
Melody’s selection has not been without criticism. Music producer and former Eurovision entrant Alejandro Abad compared the decision to “sending a padel player to a Grand Slam instead of Rafael Nadal.” Similarly, rapper and former Benidorm Fest jury member Rayden questioned her post-selection decision to alter the song. Melody defended her choices, explaining that the changes were within Eurovision guidelines and intended to appeal to an international audience.
Betting odds improve but a win seems unlikely
Melody will perform sixth in the final — a relatively early slot, which some believe may reduce her chances of standing out. Nonetheless, bookmakers have taken note of her rise. She has climbed in the rankings, now sitting at 15th place after starting outside the top 30.
On Spotify, Esa diva is outperforming expectations. The Spanish-language version is currently the 10th most streamed Eurovision entry. Melody is also the only artist from the “Big Five” countries (Spain, France, Germany, Italy, and the UK) to make the top 10 on the platform.
Melody focuses on performance, not predictions
Despite the noise around her selection and song revisions, Melody remains focused. Speaking to Vertele, she said: “I’ve done my part. No matter what happens, I’ll be able to sleep peacefully.” She expressed pride in the performance her team has created, aiming to deliver a strong showing for Spain on the Eurovision stage.