We had a great opportunity to talk again with the incredible Rafa Ela, who is back with the new song “No Thank You” to Luxembourg’s National selection for Eurovision 2025
ES: Welcome back Rafa Ela! How do you feel about returning to the competition?
Rafa Ela: I’m really happy to be back! To be honest, I didn’t think I’d make it this far again, but I’m so happy that it worked out. Being here is amazing.
ES: Can you tell us about your decision to return and how you felt when you were selected?
Rafa Ela: I decided right after the last national final that I wanted to come back. It was because of the song, but I’ll tell you more about that later. Honestly, being a finalist last year was incredible, and to be back again this year feels unbelievable. When they called my name, I cried—it was so emotional. This time, I’m doing it alone, and I really miss Angy. We shared such an amazing experience last year. She auditioned again this year too, so it was a mix of emotions for me. But I’m so grateful to have this second chance and can’t wait to be on that stage.
ES: Can you tell us how “No Thank You” was created?
Rafa Ela: This song holds a very special place in my heart. I actually applied with this song last year. Back then, I traveled to Sweden to collaborate with Christoffer Jonsson and Johan Jämtberg. What made this experience unique was that they created a song from scratch with me, which is rare.
I wanted something powerful, with a strong message, but also something that truly reflected who I am—a happy person who loves spreading positivity. Creating a Latin pop song was new for all of us, which made the process even more exciting.
Last year, the song was already good, but we knew it could be even better. The team suggested I save it for this year, so I spent the year refining it—recording new vocals, enhancing the production, and making every chorus more impactful. I worked closely with Sergio Monique, who produced Edsun’s song last year, to bring the song to its full potential.
ES: What inspired the message behind “No Thank You?”
Rafa Ela: This song is deeply personal because it reflects my journey. I was bullied in the past for being overweight and felt like an outsider. Music was my safe haven, my best friend. Over the years, I worked hard on myself, and though I’ve changed physically, I’m still the same person inside, fighting for my dream.
Now, as I step into the music world, I see people who once ignored me trying to be part of my life again. The song speaks to those moments when people who didn’t support you before suddenly want to be close to you when you succeed. It’s about staying true to yourself, believing in your dreams, and saying “no thank you” to the fake people who didn’t support you when it mattered.
It’s empowering, but in a fun, danceable way. I wanted it to be uplifting and something people could enjoy while still carrying a meaningful message.
ES: You’ve also incorporated your Portuguese roots into the song. Can you tell us about that?
Rafa Ela: Yes, I’m Portuguese and I wanted to include the Latin influence and South European spirit because it’s a big part of who I am. Luxembourg has a large Portuguese community, and they really enjoy this kind of music. It was important for me to represent my heritage through this song, and I’m proud that it brings all these elements together.
ES: How are you preparing for the Luxembourg Song Contest?
Rafa Ela: Right now, we’re in the planning stages. Rehearsals will start soon, but the production team is keeping us updated on every detail—hair, makeup, staging, and outfits. It’s very organised this year, so we can relax a bit during the holidays. Behind the scenes, I’m working with my team on live performance elements to make the song even more impactful.
ES: The selection format is different this year. What are your thoughts on this year’s selection process?
Rafa Ela: This year’s process felt less stressful for me because I knew what to expect as a returning finalist. Last year, I started much earlier and went through more stages. This time, I applied directly with my own song, thanks to the connections I made last year.
The selection also feels more diverse this year. Each of the seven songs is so different, from Latin pop to rock, jazz, and folk. It’s exciting to see this variety, and it’s clear the judges aimed to offer something for everyone. Every finalist is incredibly talented, and it’s great to work together toward representing our country.
ES: What are your all-time favourite Eurovision entries?
Rafa Ela: Oh, that’s always a tough question! For me, it’s impossible to choose just one. I loved Greece’s My Number One in 2005—it’s iconic. Eleni Foureira’s Fuego was also phenomenal, and musically, Equinox’s Bones from Bulgaria is one of my all-time favourites, they are still in my play list. Their voices gave me goosebumps. And of course, Loreen with Tattoo—she’s found her stride and continues to inspire.
ES: We’d like to know for our website, when is your birthday?
Rafa Ela: Actually it’s coming up soon—January 3, 1997.
ES: Do you have any message for Eurovision fans?
Rafa Ela: I want to thank everyone for their incredible support. Luxembourg is a small country, but the love we’ve received from Eurovision fans worldwide is heartwarming. If you can, join us for the final on January 25th at Rockhal or watch from home with family and friends. We’re working hard to deliver an amazing show for you. If you love “No Thank You,” don’t forget to vote! Thank you for believing in me—it means the world!
Listen to Rafa Ela’s song “No Thank You”
Lyrics “No Thank You” by Rafa Ela
I feel left outside now when you turn your back on me
When the music’s playing and the rhythm moves my feet
Love me, love me, love me, don’t go
Love me, love me, love me
You shut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thank you
You wanna dance but no romance, no-no-no-no thank you
That’s how I got it, it’s not the way I wanted
You shut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thank you
No-no-no-no thank you
I can’t hear you talking and you look the other way
I don’t feel included, but I can’t hear what you say
Love me, love me, love me, don’t go
Love me, love me, love me
You shut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thank you
You wanna dance but no romance, no-no-no-no thank you
That’s how I got it, it’s not the way I wanted
You shut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thank you
No-no-no-no thank you
No, no, thank you
Music dies, keeps slowing down, can’t hear the sound
Turn it up for me, I will make you stay
If you believe in me
No-no-no-no thank you
No, no, thank you
You shut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thank you
You wanna dance but no romance, no-no-no-no thank you
That’s how I got it, it’s not the way I wanted
You ѕhut me out, you let me down, no-no-no-no thаnk you
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