Mamagama, Azerbaijan’s representatives, is the third act to rehearse today on the Eurovision 2025 stage with their song “Run With U“. Mamagama will perform as song number 10 in the first semi-final, scheduled for May 13th.

This is the first performance of the season where we don’t have a national final to refer back to for staging inspiration – Mamagama were selected internally by Azerbaijan’s broadcaster. The performance radiates pure joy – it channels funk-pop energy reminiscent of Daft Punk and Nile Rodgers, but blends it beautifully with Azerbaijani tradition, especially in the post-chorus segments where lead vocalist Asef plays the saz, a traditional long-necked lute.

Unique Staging 

The staging takes place at the center of the stage, framed by a glowing halo on the floor, echoed by a smaller ring hanging above. The LED backdrop features a host of animated shadow figures mirroring the choreography of Mamagama’s three dancers, creating a lively crowd illusion that has us all bouncing in our seats – this track is a true summer bop.

Outfit-wise, the band looks sharp in sleek black leather suits with red details. Asef and Hasan each wear distinct jacket styles, while Arif sports a sleeveless top – likely to give him more freedom behind the drums. The three dancers are dressed in glittery black and red catsuits. The male dancer isn’t wearing his final costume yet, so we’ll see the finished look during the second rehearsal. Fashion has been on point this season, and Azerbaijan is definitely keeping up the standard.

 

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Azerbaijan at Eurovision 2025

“Run With U” is the song that will be performed by the band Mamagama, representing Azerbaijan as song number 10 in the first semi-final at Eurovision 2025, which will take place on May 13th in Basel, Switzerland. The song was written by band member Safael Mishiyev, along with Roman Zee and KHVS. This is the first Eurovision entry for these songwriters, and the song is performed in English.

The song “Run With U” opens with a vivid and electrifying experience, where the rhythm draws the singer into a whirlwind of sensations and energies. The interplay of words hints at an electric and thrilling encounter, where every glance and movement sparks powerful, irresistible emotions. The chorus invites listeners to leave their fears behind and step into the dim light, breaking the rules until they feel right, while the heart takes over body and soul.

As the song progresses, it describes how the night is young and the rhythm is close, with something in the air making the singer fall in love. The lyrics evoke a sense of renewal and authenticity in every laugh and touch, focusing on the present moment so intensely that it becomes impossible to let go. The song concludes with a repeated invitation to escape together, regardless of what the night may bring, with the goal of running together and living fully in the shared experience.

Currently, Azerbaijan is ranked 25th in the betting odds for Eurovision 2025.

Mamagama – Who Are You?

Mamagama is an Azerbaijani band consisting of Allahverdi Gumbatli, Bahruz Afandiyev, and Safael Mishiyev. The band was formed after Allahverdi and Bahruz’s previous band disbanded following seven years of activity, leaving them feeling disappointed and depressed. After an extensive search for a lead vocalist to complete the lineup, they met Safael and chose him as the band’s frontman. The band released the song “As It Was” in 2022, collaborating with Eurovision 2011 winner, Eldar Gasimov. In 2023, their song “River” reached the final selection stage of the committee choosing the song for Eurovision 2023.

The band name is composed of two words: Mama – the ultimate creator, the source of life, the force that nurtures the world. Gama – the full spectrum of sound, the highest frequencies, the musical scales that stretch across time and space.

The band is one of the most energetic and original bands on Azerbaijan’s music scene. The band has wowed audiences at music festivals and contests, including a winning performance at Albania’s Eurovision national selection in 2022 with the song “Dreamer.”

Source: Mamagama.

Eurovision 2025: This will be Azerbaijan’s 17th participation in Eurovision. Azerbaijan joined the contest in 2008 and achieved its best result in Eurovision 2011 when singers Ell and Nikki, won first place with the song “Running Scared”.