All 18 songs competing in the semi-final of the 2026 Eurovision Song Contest (MESC) were officially released this Friday morning, giving fans their first change to listen to this year’s participants.

The songs have been released on Spotify and YouTube, ahead of the live semi-final, which will be broadcasted from the Malta Fairs and Conventions Centre (MFCC) on January 15. The final is scheduled to take place two days later, on January 17.

This year’s Malta Eurovision Song Contest will be hosted Keane Cutajar, alongside former Junior Eurovision Song contest winners Destiny Chukunyere and Gaia Cauchi. Eurovision fans can also look forward to special guest performances during the live shows. Estonian artist Tommy Cash, who placed third at Eurovision 2025, will perform during the semi-final, while Croatian singer Baby Lasagna runner up at Eurovision 2024, will then take the stage during the final.

The semi-final lineup features a mix of familiar names and also newcomers, four artists making their MESC debut. Among them is London-based singer-songwriter Chess Galea with Shout It Out, Liston Bongailas, known as Liston, performing Mela, and X Factor Malta alumna Ema Vella with Achikuku (Don’t Think About It). Kelise Borg also makes her first appearance with Let a Girl Breathe.

Returning artists include Aidan Cassar, back after a four-year absence with Bella, following his disqualification in 2023. Denise competes once again with Trophy, while Matt Blxck returns with Ejja Lejja Ħdejja ’l Hawn (The Flute) after placing second in 2024.

Other semi-finalists include Mark Anthony Bartolo, Kurt Anthony Cassar, Franklin Calleja, Nathan Psaila, Janice Mangion, Mychael Bartolo Chircop and the Adria Twins, who will perform Nerġa Nqum.

The winner of the competition will go on to represent Malta at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026.