With just a few weeks to go before the grand finale of the first-ever Eurovision Song Contest Asia, Thukten Nyendra is fine-tuning his performance for the international stage. Having won the national singing competition Rhythm of Bhutan, he will represent the country in Bangkok, Thailand on November 14, with his song Lhayi Semo.
From a childhood dream of becoming a singer to representing Bhutan on an international stage, Thukten Nyendra is preparing for one of the biggest moments of his musical journey.
“As for now, I am feeling really happy. These days, I sing every day. I am learning from other senior artists who are well known and experts in music and taking advice on how to practice and perform well. I am also practising by singing every day, and this is how I am practising currently.”
At the heart of international debut is Lhayi Semo, meaning “The Angel”. Written by Nyendra in collaboration with Lungten Wangchuk, the song has already received strong interest and support from Bhutanese audiences.
Now, the focus is on introducing the song to international audiences and sharing Bhutanese music with the wider world.
“I would like to thank everyone, and it is because of your support that I am here today. I am really happy that I received support from the Bhutanese people. I have new song compositions which I will be releasing after the Eurovision contest, and for now I am focusing on Lhayi Semo.”
The grand finale in Bangkok will bring together 11 participating countries in a celebration of music, culture and artistic expression.
The show will be broadcast live on the Eurovision Song Contest YouTube channel and through broadcasters in the participating countries, giving audiences an opportunity to follow the performances.
Pelden Wangchuk
Edited by Sonam Pem
