French singer Anne-Marie David, who won the 1973 Eurovision Song Contest for Luxembourg with Tu Te Reconnaitras, is set to return to Israel for performances this summer.
"Am I afraid to come? Of course not," she said. "On October 8, 2023, I called my Israeli manager, Alon Amir, to ask if I should come and what I could do to help. I've been to Israel so many times and I know it's a safe place. I could make a car accident — does that mean I should stop driving?"
"I’m not well-versed in the history of the conflict, so I can’t take a stance but I do know that it makes no sense for people to be kidnapped from their homes. It makes my blood boil every time I think about it. That’s why I chose to wear the yellow ribbon (a symbol for Israeli hostages) in my performances and on European TV. I hope the families of the Israeli hostages are holding on and I’d love to meet them."
As for France's entry, she said, "I think it’s fantastic. It’s competing for the same top spot as Israel’s song. I’m sure both will finish very high."
David also reflected on her past experiences in Israel. "I always thought my first time there was for the 1979 Eurovision but it turns out I performed in Israel right after my win in 1973. My opening act was Shlomo Artzi, who I know is Israel’s biggest singer today. I feel at home in Israel. Ilanit better have a bottle of wine ready — I love her and can’t wait to give her a hug."
