“I am more and more validated”: from the “Star Academy” to her Victoire de la Musique, Helena savors

We all had it in our heads. And we perhaps even recognized ourselves in this heady ballad about toxic loves and manipulative and jealous boyfriends. In one year, “Mauvaisboy”, by Helena, has made a place for itself in the French musical landscape to the point of winning, this Friday evening, the original song prize at the 41st Victoires de la Musique.

The Belgian artist, semi-finalist of the “Star Academy” two years ago and who is preparing to celebrate her 24th birthday, spoke about this award at the end of the ceremony where she was nominated in four categories.

What is your feeling after such an award?

HELENA. How heavy it is, all the same! (she laughs and entrusts her large trophy to her team). No, actually, I’m really happy. I had come to terms with the idea of ​​returning empty-handed and that it was going to be OK. So to receive a victory is huge! It means a lot to me.

How does this original song prize particularly affect you?

I have the impression that Bad boy opened lots of doors for me. It’s my favorite song, I wouldn’t be where I am without it. It allows me to be listened to by more people. She’s my own little baby and today, I accept that she’s a bit of everyone’s. What touches me a lot, above all, is that it evokes a subject that is important to me. It’s happy and unfortunate at the same time to know that there are so many people who recognize themselves in this song, but who still love it and enjoy listening to it, singing it. It’s a bit contradictory and paradoxical. I love that when people listen to this song, it reaches their hearts. There is this idea that we are together, never alone, and that we will get through this.

It is also a prize that results from a public vote…

That means a lot to me. The audience is the most important thing. These are the people who listen to me, who come to my concerts, thanks to whom I do what I do today. Knowing that there are people who got up in the morning, who took the time to go on their phone to vote and did it so diligently, it’s a very nice gesture. It’s free, without expecting anything in return, something they did just for me. They don’t know me particularly but they wanted to see me win this prize. I find that really nice of them.

Can an award like this change anything for you?

I’m not sure that changes anything. But in my head, I feel more legitimate to do what I do. I’m coming out of “Star Academy”, a talent show, reality TV, I was Helena from “Star Ac”, it took me a while to become Helena at all. Now I’m here tonight! All these steps make me tell myself that I am more and more validated and that can help me gain even more self-confidence. To come forward and tell me it’s OK, you have the right to be there and do what you do.