Swiss ESC hopeful Marius Bear "The song needs balls"

Appenzell native Marius Bear wants to conquer the ESC stage in Turin in 2022 with the emotional ballad "Boys Do Cry". He is already practising his dancing and thinks his song is a brave decision.

He doesn't rely on pounding disco beats or catchy choruses like many other ESC participants: "The song needs balls," says Marius Bear during the telephone interview and laughs. The 28-year-old singer thinks "Boys Do Cry" is a brave choice. Because his song is a calm, emotional work with a strong message: "It's about being allowed to show your sadness. Sadness is a beautiful thing, it gives you strength," says the Appenzeller. And you are allowed to show your emotions. Even to an audience of millions watching the ESC.

The last time he cried was a month ago, when he watched the TV series "After Life" - and he is not ashamed of it.

A talisman from home

He is already rehearsing a stage performance for his appearance in the semi-final. He will even be dancing: "But I'm not Luca Hänni. But I will leave my comfort zone," says Bear.

He has a mission at the ESC: "The final has to be in there. The song is so strong that it will prevail." His lucky charm will help him achieve this: an Appenzeller Sennenring.

The first semi-final with Switzerland will take place on May 10, live on SRF zwei, the second semi-final on May 12, live on SRF zwei or SRF info. The final is on May 14, 2022, live on SRF 1.