Montenegro at Eurovision 2026: Tamara Živković discusses her empowering song her journey and – her odds to qualify for the final

Watch the full interview:

During the interview, Živković explained the underlying message of her song: “Boris Subotić wrote the lyrics and the music, and he was actually inspired by my journey to become myself. The song is basically about a woman who makes a change within herself and experiences a kind of rebirth. She finally opens up, breaks all the chains that prevented her from being herself, explores her talent, and creates her own voice.”

When asked about the planned stage direction for the contest, the artist declined to provide further details, teasing: “It is a surprise, I cannot wait for you to see what we are planning.”

The Eurovision Experience

The Montenegrin artist was one of the first representatives chosen for the contest, having been selected back in December. When asked about a specific experience that amazed her, she replied: “It feels like a 12-month journey. I am enjoying it so much and I do not know how I will cope when it all ends, it will be a shock because it will be so quiet. The experience I love the most is the pre-parties I attend. We met the Eurovision fans, and their support and appreciation mean so much to us. It motivates me to give my all.”

As is well known, Montenegro has only qualified for the Eurovision final twice throughout its years of participation. Regarding this, the singer shared: “The last time we qualified, it was also in Vienna. So I am quite hoping that this will bring me luck, because we are performing in Vienna again. I see that a lot of people love and listen to the song. Additionally, I am song number eight, which is a lucky number. I hope we make it to the final, but either way, I am so happy to have this opportunity.”

Tamara Živković – Who Are You?

Tamara Živković is a Montenegrin musician who burst into the Eurovision fan scene last year when she replaced a withdrawn artist in the national pre-selection “Montesong 2024″.

Following that withdrawal, she sought to represent Montenegro in 2025 with the song “Poguban Let”. Despite being one of the fan favorites, she eventually reached ninth place. This year, competing again with “Nova Zora”. she entered as a leading contender — and ultimately won the national selection. Over the past year, she has released several singles that, unfortunately, did not achieve significant commercial success.

Montenegro in Eurovision 2026

“Nova Zora” (in English: “A New Dawn”) is the song to be performed by Tamara Živković, representing Montenegro at Eurovision 2026 in Vienna, Austria on the second half of the first semi-final on May 12th. The track was written by Boris Subotić, the notable composer behind last year’s Montenegrin entry “Dobrodošli”, and co-produced with Marko Drežnjak.

The song “Nova Zora” is a dramatic female empowerment anthem, depicting a journey of awakening and liberation from a stifling and toxic relationship. The protagonist refuses to be redefined, choosing strength over submission. Through vivid imagery of storms, rain, and fire, the lyrics portray emotional upheaval leading to rebirth – a “new dawn” symbolizing freedom, independence, and self-renewal.