Malta’s Eurovision Entry Rewrites Song After 'C-Word' Controversy
Malta's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest, Miriana Conte, has made headlines after releasing a reworked version of her song originally titled "Kant." The title, which means "singing" in Maltese, sparked controversy due to its phonetic resemblance to a certain four-letter word in English that is often considered vulgar.
The European Broadcasting Union (EBU) intervened, ruling that both the title and some lyrics needed to be altered to align with the contest's standards. The decision was prompted by concerns that the title was too close to the slang term "C U Next Tuesday," which refers to a derogatory term for female genitalia.
While "kant" is derived from the Latin word "cantus," meaning "song" or "chant," the playful nod to the English slang was clearly intentional. In the original chorus, Conte sang “serving kant,” a phrase that resonated with queer slang, suggesting a fierce, empowered attitude often associated with the "girlboss" movement.
In response to the EBU's ruling, Conte and her team quickly set to work on a revised version of the song. The new title and lyrics aim to maintain the original's spirit while ensuring it adheres to the contest's guidelines.
This incident highlights the delicate balance artists must navigate when creating content for international platforms like Eurovision, where cultural interpretations and sensitivities can vary widely. As Malta prepares for the competition, fans are eager to see how the reworked song will be received and whether it can still capture the vibrant energy that initially drew attention.
With the changes in place, Miriana Conte is set to represent Malta with a fresh take on her entry, showcasing her talent while navigating the complexities of language and cultural expression in the world of music.