Former Melodifestivalen producer Christer Björkman encouraged Loreen to return to the competition in 2023. 

Eurovision winner Loreen is making her Melfest return after six years away with the song Tattoo, having last competed in 2017 when she reached Andra Chansen. 

After writing and producing the song, she spoke to Björkman – whom she considers a confidant – to ask his advice. 

“Before making this decision [to return to Melfest] we had some contact,” she said. 

“We’ve always had contact because he’s very special to me and I hope I’m special to him. 

“He was very much involved in the decision of being in this, looking at pros and cons.” 

Björkman was producer of Melfest for 20 years before standing down after the 2021 edition, and was by Loreen’s side when she triumphed at Eurovision in 2012. 

He now lives and works in the United States, most recently as the showrunner of the inaugural edition of the American Song Contest. 

Speaking to The Euro Trip ahead of her Melfest return, Loreen revealed that while the pair were texting, Björkman predicted what she was going to ask him. 

“‘I already know what you’re going to ask me,’ that’s what he said. 

“We were texting each other and [he said] the answer is yes, absolutely yes.

“He’s very determined and I trust him very much. When he finally got to hear the song he really liked it.” 

Tattoo was written in collaboration with Euphoria writers Peter Boström and Thomas G:son, as well as Jimmy “Joker” Thörnfeldt, Jimmy Jansson and Moa Carlebecker, better known as Cazzi Opeia. 

Loreen will perform last in the final Melfest heat on Saturday night.

Featured image – BoråsBorås TME AB / Creative Commons