In a remarkable display of cultural richness and musical innovation, Albania shone brightly at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 with the dynamic duo Shkodra Elektronike.
Their song ‘Zjerm,’ which translates to ‘Fire,’ not only captivated audiences but also secured an impressive 8th place—one of the country’s best performances in recent years.
This achievement highlights the unique blend of traditional Albanian elements and contemporary pop that Shkodra Elektronike has crafted, creating a sound that resonates with both national pride and modernity.
In this article, we will delve into the duo’s journey from their hometown of Shkodër to the prestigious stage of Eurovision, as well as explore the intriguing intersections of their traditional and modern musical influences embodied in ‘Zjerm.’
Key Takeaways
- Albania’s Shkodra Elektronike finished 8th at Eurovision 2025 with their song ‘Zjerm’, showcasing a blend of electronic and folk influences.
- The duo, consisting of Kolë Laca and Beatriçe Gjergji, highlights their cultural heritage through their unique ‘Post Immigrant Pop’ sound.
- Winning Festivali i Këngës in December 2024 was key to their success at Eurovision, marking a significant achievement for Albanian music.
The Rise of Shkodra Elektronike: A Journey from Shkodër to Eurovision
The journey of Shkodra Elektronike embodies a remarkable blend of cultural heritage and modern artistry, culminating in a standout performance at the Eurovision Song Contest
2025.
Their entry, ‘Zjerm’—meaning ‘Fire’ in the Gheg dialect—showcased a captivating fusion of electronic music and traditional Albanian folk elements, a style they proudly label as ‘Post Immigrant Pop.’ Formed in 2019 by producer Kolë Laca and vocalist Beatriçe Gjergji, both of whom hail from Shkodër but were raised in Italy, the duo has made a significant impact on the Albanian music scene.
Their innovative sound not only honors their roots but also resonates vibrantly with a wider audience.
Winning the 63rd edition of Festivali i Këngës in December 2024 was pivotal for their career, as it served as their gateway to represent Albania on a prestigious international stage.
Their impressive 8th place finish at Eurovision, marked by a harmonious blend of Balkan folk instruments and contemporary electronica, stands as one of the best results for Albania in recent years, highlighting both their talent and the potential of Albanian music in the global arena.
Exploring ‘Zjerm’: The Intersection of Traditional and Modern Musical Influences
The success of ‘Zjerm’ at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 has sparked a renewed interest in the fusion of traditional and modern musical influences within Albania.
Shkodra Elektronike’s unique sound exemplifies how artists can draw from their cultural heritage while simultaneously appealing to contemporary listeners.
The duo’s adept use of Balkan folk instruments such as the çiftelia and the lahuta, harmonized with electronic beats and synth melodies, creates a rich auditory experience that captivates audiences.
This innovative artistry not only bridges the gap between generations but also highlights the versatility of Albanian music on an international platform.
As they continue to gain recognition, Shkodra Elektronike’s work represents a significant shift in the musical landscape, where embracing one’s roots enhances rather than limits artistic expression.
