When you think of Brazil, Rio or São Paulo are the first places that come to mind – but Balneário Camboriú is the little gem that never ceases to surprise me. This city on the Atlantic coast of the state of Santa Catarina is like a miniature version of Miami – only more Brazilian, more colourful, more lively.
For me, 2025 actually began here: with the sun on my face, salt in my hair and a wealth of new impressions and inspiration. I spent days working on new songs, often with a view of the beach and the sea, where the rhythm of the waves and the pulse of the city all flowed into my music.
Balneário Camboriú – where inspiration meets the sound of the sea
In the evening, the city comes alive. The skyscrapers are reflected in the water, and the lights along Avenida Atlântica dance to the beat of the night. Between street food, caipirinhas and spontaneous beach concerts, I remembered my dream: music, travel and freedom.
The dream city of Balneário Camboriú
Perhaps it was this moment – when a street musician somewhere played a melancholic bossa nova version of a pop song – that gave me the courage to finally finish writing my song. It’s about setting out, about the courage to overcome boundaries – and about how music builds bridges, whether between oceans or continents.
Another unexpected stop, perhaps in Vienna – ESC 2026, here I come!
Apparently, there were over 500 applications, so I realize that it’s not easy to even make it to the preliminary round. But anyway, maybe it will work out. Many years ago, some of my students asked me why I didn’t apply for the ESC. I usually said that I was too old and not suitable. Many years later, I don’t think about it so much anymore – my motto is “Time to Be.” My song is a mixture of Brazilian fire and Western rock sound – with a pinch of coastal wind from Balneário Camboriú “Between the Waves and the Stars.
Conclusion: travelling, being, singing
This trip showed me that places are more than just backdrops – they are sound spaces. Balneário Camboriú gave me inspiration, Vienna may give me the stage.