Vlad Sheriff Interview: “Each day is not just another 24 hours. It is a new page of our lives.”

Singer and filmmaker Vlad Sheriff is no stranger to Vidbir. After participating last year as a backing vocalist for Jerry Heil & Alyona Alyona’s winning entry “Teresa & Maria,” Vlad is preparing to take the stage on Saturday as a solo artist with “Wind of change.” We caught up with him to ask about his Vidbir 2025 journey, his passion for directing, and more. 

Can you talk a bit about your musical background? When did you start singing, and how did you decide to pursue music as a career?

My talent first emerged at a school talent competition, where I won my first victory with the song “Molitva” by Marija Šerifović. That performance became the inspiration for creating my stage name, Vlad Sheriff, as a symbol of my musical journey. In 2023, I became a semi-finalist on “The Voice of the Country” (Season 13), turning all the coaches’ chairs. In 2024, as a backing vocalist for Jerry Heil & Alyona Alyona, I helped the team win the national selection for Eurovision. 

How does it feel to be finally participating in Vidbir as a contestant yourself?

It was an amazing experience, and I’m very happy that I had the chance to feel the stage in advance. This gives me a bit more confidence in my performance. The girls support me and believe in me and my song.

What was your reaction to learning you were a finalist?

For me, it was an unexpected surprise because my friend ANKA, who was a finalist in Vidbir 2024, almost convinced me to apply and take part in the contest. I was pleasantly shocked. 

Do you feel your experience competing on “The Voice of the Country” (“Holos Krainy”) in 2023 prepared you at all for Vidbir and Eurovision?

Of course. It helped me build resilience to stress during performances. I’ve become more comfortable on stage and have learned a lot of technical aspects – from sound setup to audience interaction.

You directed the music video for ANKA’s “Palala” in 2024, and I understand you studied film at university. Is directing music videos something you plan to continue in the future? What other film projects have you worked on?

This field, just like singing, plays a huge role in my life. Currently, I’m working with my team on a documentary film about Ukrainian defenders, highlighting important messages in support of the Ukrainian people. I also have many upcoming music video shoots planned for Ukrainian artists. I truly enjoy working as a director.

Who are your biggest musical influences?

Tina Karol – I’ve loved and listened to her since childhood. I really enjoy her songs and vocals. She inspires me as a singer because she possesses incredibly powerful vocal techniques and stylistic approaches. 

What inspired you to write “Wind of change?” Can you tell us more about the meaning of the song?

The first version of the song was in Ukrainian, but I hesitated to release it because it was very personal – it expressed the feelings of someone who has been walking towards their dream for a long time, often standing at a crossroads, wondering which path to take this time to finally reach their goal. The melody I wrote kept haunting me, so I decided to translate the song into English to make my personal emotions feel a little less exposed. We Ukrainians are going through an incredibly difficult time right now, but it has taught us how important it is to cherish every day. 

My main message to the world is: each day is not just another 24 hours. It is a new page of our lives, filled with opportunities that we must seize here and now – because making dreams come true is always the right time. 

Why do you want to compete in Eurovision? 

Almost every artist sees the Eurovision stage as a major career achievement – and I am no exception. 

What are some of your favorite Eurovision entries from the past?

“Tattoo” by Loreen (Sweden 2023), “The Code” by Nemo (Switzerland 2024), and of course “Teresa & Maria” by  Jerry Heil & Alyona Alyona (Ukraine 2024). 

Besides Vidbir, and potentially Eurovision, what are your plans for 2025?

Writing my own tracks and expanding my video production projects.

Be sure to catch Vidbir this Saturday, February 8 at 17:30 CET. Vlad will perform first in the running order.

Are #YOU looking forward to watching Vlad Sheriff make his (official) Vidbir debut on Saturday? Let us know on our socials (@escunited), on Discord, or at our forum.