Eurovision song contest

The Public Television Company of Armenia has internally selected SIMÓN to represent the country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 with his song “Paloma Rumba.”

Born on August 9, 1994, in the city of Hrazdan, Armenia, SIMÓN grew up in a family of doctors. Already as a small kid, he had passion for music, dancing, and performing. His family often joked that he learned how to sing and dance way before he learned how to walk and talk. Inspired by legendary performers such as Michael Jackson, SIMÓN developed a strong connection to the stage. 

Although he majored in economics while studying at the university, SIMÓN never pursued a career in that field, choosing instead to follow his heart and his passion for performing. Through years of dedication and hard work, he established himself as one of Armenia’s most recognized dancers and performers.In recent years, SIMÓN expanded his artistic journey into professional singing and live performance, becoming the lead artist at one of the popular live music clubs in Yerevan.

In 2025, SIMÓN participated in Depi Evratesil, Armenia’s national selection for Eurovision. He was first according to both international and local juries and was one of the fan-favourites acts of the competition, ultimately finishing in second place. Following this experience and his continued artistic development, the Public Television Company of Armenia has decided to internally select SIMÓN as the country’s representative for the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.

ABOUT THE SONG

“Paloma Rumba” is a rebellious anthem about breaking free from the monotony of a suffocating routine and finally choosing yourself and your dreams over your comfort zone. The title literally translates to “Dove’s Rumba”(or “Dove’s Dance”), symbolizing a joyful dance of freedom - like a dove finally taking flight after being caged for too long. Through humor, attitude and explosive energy, the song follows a character, who walks away from a dull 9-to-5 life, choosing passion and authenticity instead. At its core, “Paloma Rumba” celebrates the moment you say goodbye to what holds you back and start living to the rhythm of your heart.

“Paloma Rumba” is composed by Lilit Navasardyan, well known to Eurovision fans for several entries she has authored, including “LoveWave,” performed by Iveta Mukuchyan at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 and “Not Alone,” performed by Aram MP3 at the Eurovision Song Contest 2014. She is also the author of “Brave Heart,” performed by Albert, Armenia’s representative at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2025.

The lyrics are co-written by Rosa Linn, David Tserunyan and Eva Voskanyan. Rosa Linn’s global hit “Snap” became one of the most streamed songs in the history of the Eurovision Song Contest.

THE MUSIC VIDEO

The music video tells the story of SIMÓN’s character, who after finishing second in Armenia’s national selection the previous year, decides to go back to a regular office job as an accountant, his “actual” profession. However, the dream to sing at the Eurovision Song Contest never leaves his mind. Instead of concentrating on his office work, he constantly collects data on previous Eurovision artists from Armenia and tries to plan his way back to Eurovision.

Throughout the video, everyday office moments are contrasted with flashes of imagination, performance, and memories of the stage. The inner tension gradually builds until the emotions reach their climax — and the moment finally comes when he decides to leave his day-to-day routine and follow his dream once again, taking the journey to Eurovision.

The music video is directed by Arthur Manukyan, produced by David Tserunyan, with cinematography by Artyom Abovyan and choreography by Kristina Avagimyan. The visual world of the video is shaped through styling by Armen Galyan and set design by Lilit Mkhitaryan and Lilit Ketikyan.

Speaking about his participation, SIMÓN said:

“For many years, I dreamed of performing on a big stage at Eurovision, and today my dream has finally come true. This moment is the result of years of hard work and unwavering belief. I hope my song inspires a sense of freedom, fills you with energy, and reminds you that sometimes, achieving your dreams only takes one brave step out of your comfort zone.”