Miriana Conte is serving… and winning

She’s bold, she’s chaotic, and she’s finally representing Malta. Miriana Conte’s Eurovision moment is heating up just in time.

After five near-misses and more than a few controversies, Miriana Conte is making her Eurovision debut count. With her infectious anthem Serving, she’s now racked up an MTV global premiere, trended in multiple countries, and—just today—won Norway’s Eurovision preview show Adresse Basel. It’s official: Malta has a serious contender.

From Malta to MTV

On May 8, Serving hit MTV Global, giving millions of viewers across the world a first taste of Malta’s 2025 Eurovision flavour. It’s a massive leap for a country that rarely cracks that kind of exposure. The cheeky, high-energy music video—equal parts fashion parade and empowerment statement—has earned praise for its unapologetic style and slick visuals.

This came hot on the heels of Conte’s first rehearsal in Basel on May 6, where her polished stage presence and vibrant aesthetic impressed fans and press alike. “You think you’re prepared in Malta,” she said before flying out, “but once you’re there, it’s ten times more intense.” Still, she added: “I’m truly happy to finally represent my country—after five attempts!”

The artist behind the eyeliner

Born in December 2000, Miriana Conte is “chaotic—in a good way.” That’s how she introduced herself in a recent interview, citing her ADHD as both challenge and superpower. “It helps me create good stuff,” she smiled.

Born to a Maltese mother and a Neapolitan father, Conte’s path to the Eurovision stage was anything but smooth. After four unsuccessful bids between 2017 and 2024, she finally cracked it in February this year with a song originally titled Kant (Maltese for “singing”).

It soared on YouTube and caught fire with Maltese fans. But the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) took issue with the name—too close to a certain English expletive—and asked for changes.

“It was disappointing,” Conte admitted in a Newsnight interview. “But we found a middle path.” That new path is Serving, which retains the energy, drops the stress, and doubles down on self-love.

Norway approves

If Adresse Basel is any indicator, Conte’s rising profile isn’t limited to Malta. The Norwegian preview show is considered a key litmus test for Eurovision success. Miriana beat out entries from much larger countries on this week’s episode, scoring high with both the panel and viewers.

Her pre-contest schedule has been packed—from farewell parties in San Ġwann (postponed for national mourning following the death of the Pope) to Eurovision pre-parties and international interviews. “It’s been emotional,” she said, “but so worth it.”

Eyes on May 15

Conte performs in the second semi-final on May 15. Malta hasn’t qualified for the final since 2021, but with momentum building, Serving may finally break the streak.

Locals can cheer her on at St. George’s Square, where the semi-finals and final will be shown on a big screen. Entry is free. Energy is mandatory.

More than just glitter

At its core, Serving is about defiance and confidence. Conte summed it up best to the Associated Press: “It’s a song about self-confidence. That’s the message. Own your space.”

She’s done exactly that—turning setbacks into fuel, backlash into buzz, and five years of trying into one dazzling moment.

Win or lose, Malta’s already got a victory to be proud of.