Alen Đuras is a singer known for his emotional interpretations and strong vocal expressiveness. He began his professional career in 2016, when he placed third on The Voice Croatia. In 2017, he was one of the backing vocalists for Jacques Houdek at the 62nd Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv.
In 2024, Đuras made his debut at Dora with the song “A Tamburitza Lullaby,” finishing second according to the audience vote. This year, he is competing at Dora once again with the song “From Ashes to Flame.”
ES: How does it feel to be a Dalmatian with a Slavonian soul, living in Zagreb?
Alen: Honestly, it feels great. I’ve been lucky enough to live in almost every part of Croatia, and I’m really grateful for that. People like to joke that I’m a bit of a mix —Dalmatian, Slavonian, Zagorje, Zagreb — but I see that as a gift, not a problem. Every place left something in me, musically and personally. Living in Zagreb now feels like a natural meeting point of all those influences. It’s inspiring, dynamic, and it feels like home.
ES: This is your second attempt at Dora. After “Tamburitza Lullaby”, which finished as the public’s runner-up in 2024, you now return with “From Ashes to Flame”. What has changed for you over these two years?
Alen: A lot has changed — in the best possible way. I never stopped playing concerts and being on stage, but in the meantime I also started writing my own songs, which was a big step for me creatively. I also got married, so life definitely feels fuller and more grounded now. I think all of that naturally reflects in my music. I’m calmer, more confident, and more aware of who I am and what I want to say.
ES: This is also your first time appearing as a songwriter, moving from tamburitza to piano and strings. “From Ashes to Flame” sounds like a story of rebirth – is this song rooted in a personal experience, or is it more symbolic? Is there a particular moment in the song that is especially meaningful to you, and what message do you hope to convey through it?
Alen: The song is more symbolic, but it definitely comes from real emotions. As the lyricist, I wanted to create something that speaks about hope and inner strength during difficult times. I was aiming for a bit of a James Bond vibe — cinematic, elegant, but still very emotional. Piano and strings felt like the right tools to tell that story. The most meaningful moment for me is when the song truly “opens up” and shifts from darkness into light. That’s the message I hope people take with them: no matter how heavy things feel, there is always a way to rise again — from ashes to flame.
ES: The song relies heavily on your powerful voice and emotional delivery. What can we expect from your performance at Dora?
Alen: There won’t be any classic choreography. The focus will be on emotion, atmosphere, and the song itself. I want the performance to feel honest and intimate, even on a big stage. Everything is built around the vocals and the story — letting the emotion grow naturally and allowing the audience to really feel the song rather than just watch it.
ES: Ten years ago, you competed in Team Jacques on The Voice Croatia, and the following year you were a backing vocalist for Jacques Houdek in Kyiv. How was it to experience the Eurovision stage from behind the scenes, performing in front of millions?
That experience was incredible – honestly, one of the best in my life. Being on the Eurovision stage in Kyiv in 2017, even as a backing vocalist, was something I’ll never forget. Seeing how everything works from the inside, feeling that energy, and performing in front of millions of people was overwhelming in the best possible way. I remember standing there and telling myself: one day, I want to be here as the lead vocalist, representing Croatia.
ES: Having already experienced Eurovision from the inside, does that change how you approach Dora this time – mentally or artistically?
Alen: Definitely. It makes the whole process feel more familiar and less intimidating. I feel calmer and more focused this time. Artistically, I trust myself more — my voice, my choices, and my story.
ES: Besides your own song, do you have a personal favourite at Dora this year?
Alen: There are some really strong songs this year, which makes Dora exciting. I genuinely respect everyone who made it to this stage, so it’s hard to single out just one favourite. For now, I’m fully focused on delivering the best possible performance of my own song and enjoying the moment.
ES: Do you follow Eurovision? Who is your all-time favourite Eurovision artist or song?
Alen: Of course I follow Eurovision – it’s impossible not to if you love music and performance. There are so many iconic songs and artists, but I’ve always been drawn to powerful vocal performances and songs that feel timeless and emotional. Those are the ones that stay with me long after the contest is over.
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