Chanel Terrero's electrifying performance of "SloMo" at the Benidorm Fest final catapulted her to national stardom and secured her place as Spain's representative at the Eurovision Song Contest 2022. The song, a high-energy Latin pop anthem, became an instant sensation, sparking both fervent support and heated debate. This article delves into the intricacies of "SloMo," exploring its musicality, choreography, the controversy surrounding Chanel's victory, and its impact on Spain's Eurovision journey. We'll also analyze the song's lyrics, its message, and the various remixes and versions that have emerged since its release.
The Rise of "SloMo": From Benidorm Fest to Turin
Before Benidorm Fest, Chanel Terrero was a well-established performer in the Spanish musical theatre scene, with credits including "The Lion King," "Mamma Mia!," and "Flashdance." However, she was relatively unknown to the wider public. Her decision to enter Benidorm Fest with "SloMo" marked a significant turning point in her career.
Benidorm Fest, launched in 2022, was designed as a revamped national selection process for Eurovision, aiming to modernize Spain's approach and attract a broader audience. The competition featured a diverse range of artists and musical styles, showcasing the vibrancy of the Spanish music scene.
Chanel's performance of "SloMo" in the semi-finals immediately captivated the audience. The song's infectious beat, combined with Chanel's powerful vocals and dynamic choreography, created a captivating spectacle. Her stage presence was undeniable, and her confidence radiated through the screen.
However, Chanel's path to victory was not without its challenges. The song faced criticism from some quarters for its perceived overt sexuality and its departure from more traditional Spanish musical styles. These critiques often overlooked the artistry and skill involved in Chanel's performance and the song's carefully crafted composition.
Despite the controversy, "SloMo" secured its place in the final, where it faced stiff competition from other talented acts. The final was a nail-biting affair, with the jury vote playing a crucial role in determining the winner. Ultimately, Chanel emerged victorious, securing the highest score from the professional jury.
Deconstructing "SloMo": Music, Lyrics, and Choreography
"SloMo" is a masterclass in contemporary Latin pop. The song's production, led by Leroy Sánchez, Ibere Fortes, Maggie Szabos and Arjen Thonen, seamlessly blends elements of reggaeton, Latin rhythms, and electronic music. The driving beat, coupled with catchy hooks and a memorable chorus, makes it instantly appealing and highly danceable.
The song's structure is carefully designed to build tension and excitement. It begins with a relatively restrained intro, gradually layering in instrumentation and vocal harmonies. The pre-chorus builds anticipation before exploding into the high-energy chorus, where Chanel unleashes her full vocal power. The song also features a dynamic bridge and a powerful outro, ensuring that the energy remains high throughout.
The lyrics of "SloMo," written by Ibere Fortes, Maggie Szabos, Arjen Thonen, Leroy Sánchez and Keith Harris, are confident and empowering. The song tells the story of a woman who is in control of her own sexuality and desires. She is not afraid to express herself and invites her partner to embrace the moment and enjoy the ride.
Chanel SloMo Lyrics (Spanish):
*Luciendo, bailando*
*Provocando*
*Baby, esta noche es pa' soltar*
*Sudando, quemando*
*Acariciando*
*Toda la noche hasta que salga el sol*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, quema*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, yeah*
*Llegó la mami, la queen, la dura*
*I’m on fire, voy a darte una cura*
*Pa’ quitarte to’ lo que te tortura*
*Si te mareas, baby, agarra la cintura*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, quema*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, yeah*
*SloMo, wuh*
*SloMo*
*Mami, esta noche no se duerme, no*
*SloMo, wuh*
*SloMo*
*Voy a darte to’ lo que te mereces, oh*
*Luciendo, bailando*
*Provocando*
*Baby, esta noche es pa' soltar*
*Sudando, quemando*
*Acariciando*
*Toda la noche hasta que salga el sol*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, quema*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*
*Sube pa’ arriba, yeah*
*Llegó la mami, la queen, la dura*chanel slomo final
*I’m on fire, voy a darte una cura*
*Pa’ quitarte to’ lo que te tortura*
*Si te mareas, baby, agarra la cintura*
*Baja pa’ bajo, quema*