Montenegro’s journey to Eurovision 2025 has taken an unexpected turn. NeonoeN, the band chosen to represent the country with their song “Clickbait”, has officially withdrawn from the competition. The news, announced through a public statement by the band and shared by RTCG, ends days of speculation about the future of Montenegro’s entry.
NeonoeN’s Full Statement
The band addressed their decision to step down in a detailed and heartfelt statement, emphasizing their focus on music and the desire to avoid narratives outside of their artistic work. Here is their statement in full:
“Dear,
In the best public interest, with a desire to end the uncertainty and once again contribute to the music for which we are primarily here, we inform you that we voluntarily withdraw from participating in Eurovision. RTCG will choose another representative in accordance with the regulations, and we will be the first to wish them luck and provide full support.
Winning the Montesong brought us publicity of a type and magnitude we did not choose, nor could we control. We note, and the facts confirm, that performing a working version of the song live did not jeopardize the festival process of Montesong, nor could it have affected its final outcome and our placement. It is also a fact that there were many similar examples, and the EBU has always decided that those songs could participate (one even won at Eurovision), because they did not have a competitive advantage over others, which is clear to everyone.
However, we simply do not want to be part of any narratives outside music, nor to promote our original work in that way.
Eurovision has never been a goal in itself for us. Expanding the scope of our musical activity definitely is!
The Montesong festival organized by the Association of Estrada Artists has brought 16 new songs, and that is its greatest value.
We want to thank the management of RTCG for their goodwill and intention to give us space for other options. We believe they will understand our decision to withdraw from Eurovision, and we also thank them for that.
A special and immense thanks for the support from fellow musicians, lovers of good music, friends, acquaintances, journalists, and the wider public from Montenegro and abroad, who have given us strength in recent days. Our families have shared all the glory and despair of this process with us, and now it is time to repay them and dedicate ourselves to them in the right way.
“CLICKBAIT continues to live as a music single, but we fear also as a contemporary social phenomenon.
Once again, thank you all. Now let’s all together support Montenegro at Eurovision!”
The Aftermath
With NeonoeN stepping down, RTCG has confirmed that they will select a new representative for Eurovision 2025 in Basel, Switzerland. The broadcaster will adhere to official regulations to ensure the replacement process is fair and transparent.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions among Eurovision fans and Montenegro’s music community. While some respect NeonoeN’s choice to prioritize their artistic integrity, others express disappointment, especially given the intrigue surrounding their bold and unconventional entry, “Clickbait.”
A Broader Context
NeonoeN’s withdrawal sheds light on the pressures and challenges faced by Eurovision artists. The band’s statement highlights their discomfort with the level of publicity and external narratives that overshadowed their musical journey. Their message also underscores the value of Montenegro’s Montesong festival in creating new music and celebrating local artistry.
What’s Next for Montenegro?
The focus now shifts to RTCG’s next move. With “Clickbait” no longer in contention, the broadcaster faces the task of selecting a new artist and song to represent Montenegro on the Eurovision stage. Fans are eager to see how the country will move forward. They should make their decision in the coming days.
Final Thoughts
NeonoeN’s withdrawal is a poignant reminder of the complexities of the Eurovision journey. As the band continues their musical endeavors beyond the contest, their parting words encourage unity and support for Montenegro’s Eurovision future.
What are your thoughts on NeonoeN’s decision? Do you think Montenegro’s new representative will capture the spirit of Eurovision 2025? Share your opinions in the comments below!
