Eurovision 2024: France
France selected Slimane to represent them at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 in Malmö, Sweden. His song, “Mon amour,” is a powerful and emotive ballad performed entirely in French. This choice marked a return to a classic, stripped-down style after France’s more contemporary entries in recent years.
Slimane Nebchi, known professionally as Slimane, is a well-established and popular artist in France. He rose to fame after winning the fifth season of *The Voice: la plus belle voix* in 2016. Since then, he has released several successful albums and singles, solidifying his place as a prominent figure in the French music scene. His existing fanbase and established talent undoubtedly boosted France’s chances in the competition.
“Mon amour” is a heartfelt declaration of love, showcasing Slimane’s vocal prowess and emotional delivery. The song’s simple instrumentation, primarily featuring piano and strings, allowed Slimane’s voice to take center stage. The lyrics, deeply personal and relatable, explore themes of longing, regret, and the enduring power of love. The performance in Malmö included a section where Slimane walked out onto the stage extension, singing a cappella, creating an intimate connection with the audience. This choice was praised for its rawness and emotional impact.
France, as one of the “Big Five” countries, automatically qualified for the Grand Final. The country’s performance received largely positive feedback from both fans and critics. Many lauded Slimane’s vocals, the song’s emotional depth, and the overall staging. However, some felt the staging was too minimalist and could have benefited from more visual impact.
Ultimately, France finished in fourth place at Eurovision 2024, achieving a score of 445 points. The professional juries placed “Mon amour” very high, awarding it significant points. The public vote was also strong, contributing substantially to the final result. This result was a significant improvement compared to France’s performance in 2023 and continues France’s recent streak of achieving well within the Top 10. While not a victory, the fourth-place finish confirmed Slimane’s appeal and underscored the enduring power of a well-crafted ballad, solidifying France’s strong standing in the Eurovision landscape.