Zoë Livay reveals her new song is ready for Eurovision 2026, sparking excitement and speculation among fans about her chances and artistic direction.

The Netherlands is buzzing with anticipation as singer-songwriter Zoë Livay, one of the most compelling voices in the Dutch music scene, revealed that the song she intends to use to compete for the honor of representing the country at Eurovision 2026 is already completed and awaiting its big debut. Livay’s bold move, disclosed this month, firmly places her at the center of buzz circulating around the country’s upcoming selection and adds momentum to the ever-evolving conversation surrounding the Eurovision Song Contest—a nexus of entertainment, style, and drama closely followed across Europe.

The Dutch national broadcaster, AVROTROS, confirmed that it will once again utilize an internal selection process to choose its act for Eurovision 2026. It officially opened the submission window for artists and composers this year, which will remain open through August 31.

The Netherlands already made headlines in November 2024 by becoming the first country to confirm its participation in Eurovision 2026. The national broadcaster pointed out its satisfying record in recent contests, having qualified for the Grand Final in 10 of the past 12 editions. Officials noted that they are committed to continuing the same internal process for selecting their Eurovision entry.

A Revolutionary and Authentic Voice in the Dutch Scene

Zoë Livay, born in Rotterdam in May 2000, has emerged in recent years as one of the most impressive Dutch musicians and songwriters. She began singing in church and choir settings, and her musical influences are deeply rooted in traditional Dutch soundscapes—especially those of folk legend André Hazes, whose music filled her childhood home.

A major turning point came at the age of 18, when she participated in a season of “The Voice of Holland,” eventually choosing to sign a recording deal with the label headed by Dutch rapper and producer, Ali B. That collaboration, however, did not endure due to creative differences.

She later moved on to release singles under various labels, eventually signing with Warner Music and producing a series of hits. Her work is known for its blend of creativity and unfiltered sincerity—a combination that earned her both artistic acclaim and a steady fanbase. In 2022, she released her debut EP, centering around themes of healing post-breakup. This was followed by a 2024 EP that solidified her place in the burgeoning wave of contemporary Dutch pop music. In 2025, she gained significant traction with the hit “Ik zing” (“I Sing”), which soared on radio charts and garnered prestigious awards from leading Dutch stations.

Beyond her musical work, Livay has also built a reputation as an actress—appearing in the show #Fitgirls and in various contemporary theater productions. Performing at major national festivals and guest-starring at concerts solidified her status as a rising European star.

A Strong Prospect for the Netherlands—and for Eurovision

Zoë Livay’s rise toward the Eurovision stage represents more than just artistic momentum—it signals a possible turning point for the Netherlands after several years of mixed results in the contest. Livay brings a rare synthesis: lyrical depth, unmistakable Dutch musical roots, and an artistic language that bridges mainstream appeal with indie edge while speaking to the zeitgeist of European audiences. It’s no surprise some Eurovision analysts are suggesting she could turn the Netherlands into a “trendsetting phenomenon, connecting emotionally with both the voting public and the professional juries.”

The Eurovision Song Contest, one of Europe’s most-watched live television events, also functions as a vehicle for national identity, innovation, and the interplay between art and political representation. In this context, Livay—with her youth, artistic achievements, and raw honesty—embodies the very elements Eurovision audiences crave: relevance, a universal message infused with courage, and a resonant emotional core. Her participation could inspire younger creators, as one Dutch music critic commented: “She brings a new musical language born from everyday experiences far from the spotlight.”

Fans and artists in the European scene have praised her intentions, calling it “the right move for the times,” although others caution: “Authenticity and simplicity may be the key this time—not just dazzling production.” Nonetheless, interest is mounting. The Netherlands recognizes that success on this stage shapes not only cultural identity, but also tourism and the international music market.

Breaking the Mold

Zoë Livay, having already built a loyal following and made standout appearances, shared that she deliberately composed a song tailored for Eurovision—part of a growing trend among European artists who design material specifically for the competition. Eurovision fans know that songs created with a deep understanding of the “Eurovision spirit”—blending national identity, contemporary messaging, and international production—tend to stand out and connect more effectively with diverse audiences.

As part of a rising movement of strategically crafted, contest-oriented music, Livay is solidifying her position as one of the most refreshing contenders to lead a bold new era for the Netherlands after years of inconsistent results. Conversations among members of the EuroMix community have already begun, with opinions divided. Some are enthusiastic, seeing Livay as a chance to return to the upper ranks thanks to a well-crafted and relevant entry. Others are more cautious, saying it’s too early to evaluate without hearing the full song. But the general mood is that Livay’s professional approach—encouraged by public momentum—will set a high standard and challenge other hopefuls.

Cracking the Eurovision Formula

From years of watching Eurovision finals live, I’ve often noticed how songs composed “by the book” differ from those born out of genuine experience and personal journeys. In Livay’s case, her backstory highlights just such a blend: raised in an open environment, working with international producers, and striving to distill a message that resonates deeply with wide-ranging European audiences.

Members of the music industry have noted Zoë’s new creative process, mixing current trends like powerful visual elements and globally-inflected production with authentic Dutch sounds.

Longtime Eurovision fans recall similar efforts from Belgium and Estonia, who surprised viewers with polished entries that impressed the continent. But as many experienced observers point out, it’s often those intentional deviations from the expected—songs marked by authenticity or surprising twists—that launch artists to the top or achieve viral success in digital media.

Netherlands at Eurovision 2025

“C’est La Vie” is the title of the song performed by Claude, who represented the Netherlands at Eurovision 2025. The Netherlands qualified for the Grand Final after placing third in the first semi-final with 121 points. In the Grand Final, the Netherlands finished in 12th place with 175 points, with the jury awarding the country fifth place, but the public at home ranking it only 15th.

This year, the Netherlands participated in the Grand Final after two years of missing out. In 2023, Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper failed to qualify from the semi-final, while in 2024, Joost Klein was disqualified after the semi-final due to a violent incident involving the competition’s production team.

Eurovision 2025: This was the Netherlands’ 65th participation in Eurovision. The Netherlands joined the competition in 1956, was one of the seven founding countries, and has won it five times over the years. The Netherlands’ last victory was at Eurovision 2019 with the song “Arcade” performed by singer Duncan Laurence.