“Voyage” by Zoë Më Was Not a Strong Enough Entry

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Eurovision is often as much about spectacle and storytelling as it is about vocal performance and musical quality. Every year, countries battle not only for points but also for national pride. That’s why Switzerland’s choice of Zoë Më’s “Voyage” for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025—especially as the host nation—raises more questions than applause, at least for those willing to look past the glitter.

Let’s begin with the obvious: since Switzerland is the host this year, “Voyage” automatically advanced to the Grand Final. This privilege might be tradition, but it’s also a double-edged sword. While it guarantees exposure, it also removes a critical checkpoint—the semi-finals—which often act as a quality filter. “Voyage” never had to prove itself under the same scrutiny as other entries, and that makes its selection all the more frustrating.

Yes, the official music video made waves in Switzerland. Visually, it’s hard to deny that it was a cinematic success. Lush landscapes, polished styling, and dreamy aesthetics helped it go viral. But Eurovision is not a music video competition. When stripped of its visual crutches, the song itself—despite being layered with poetic metaphors and an ethereal arrangement—lacks the impact and memorability Eurovision demands.

The reality is that “Voyage” plays it safe. Too safe. Its dreamy, mid-tempo style might work for a late-night drive playlist, but it fails to deliver the emotional or dramatic punch that Eurovision audiences crave. Where’s the build-up? Where’s the hook that people will remember five performances later? Compared to the more dynamic and daring entries from smaller countries with fewer resources, “Voyage” feels like a missed opportunity wrapped in a beautiful package.

Some fans argue that Zoë Më represents a new, introspective era for Switzerland’s musical identity. That’s valid—every nation has the right to evolve its cultural representation. But Eurovision is also about showmanship, diversity, and connecting with millions of viewers across languages and borders. “Voyage,” with its poetic but somewhat opaque lyrics, risks alienating rather than uniting audiences. The song doesn’t lack artistry—it lacks accessibility.

And while Zoë Më is undoubtedly talented, the decision to send her as Switzerland’s face to the world stage raises questions about the internal selection process. Was this truly the best the country had to offer? Or was it a safe, elegant choice designed more for local approval than international success?

Many Eurovision veterans understand that a host country’s entry is crucial. It sets the tone and reflects the national identity in a highly publicized and symbolic way. In 2025, Switzerland had a unique opportunity to showcase its musical boldness on home soil. Instead, “Voyage” feels more like background music at a museum exhibit than the centerpiece performance of a flagship event.

To be clear, this isn’t an attack on Zoë Më personally. She’s an artist with a clear vision and a sound that resonates with many. But Eurovision isn’t just about artistry; it’s about strategy, timing, and knowing your audience. “Voyage” may win over critics in music magazines, but Eurovision is about stirring emotions across living rooms from Lisbon to Lviv. In that regard, it simply doesn’t soar high enough.

In a year full of powerhouse vocals, eccentric staging, and heart-stopping performances, “Voyage” risks becoming the song people forget. And that’s the worst fate for any Eurovision entry—not scandal, not poor staging, but silence. A shrug. A quiet exit.

Switzerland deserved more. Not necessarily louder or weirder, but bolder. Eurovision is one of the rare stages where taking a risk is often more rewarding than playing it safe. “Voyage” is beautiful, yes—but beauty isn’t always enough.

Unpopular as it may be to say this in a country that has rallied behind Zoë Më, it’s worth asking the hard questions. Because only by doing so can Switzerland hope to return to the kind of fearless, inventive Eurovision entries that truly capture the continent’s imagination.