Eurovision 2014: San Marino: Maybe (Forse)

San Marino: Valentina Monetta

We've known since last June that Valentina Monetta would be returning to represent San Marino at Eurovision.

What we didn't know, until last March, was that the song which she will take to Copenhagen will be a track that's included on her latest album: Maybe (Forse).

You have to hand it to Valentina, taking on Eurovision three years in a row is no mean feat. Many other singers would have given up after the first attempt, so she must be made of stern stuff.

Perhaps there's a little determination in the decision too. Not only is this her third attempt, but it's her third attempt at trying to qualify.

In fact, ever since its first participation in 2008, San Marino has failed to qualify for the Grand Final. Last year, it only just lost out when Crisalide (Vola) finished eleventh in its semi-final.

For this reason, I was expecting something spectacular from Valentina this year. A song powerful and memorable enough to allow her to qualify. Unfortunately, I am totally underwhelmed with Maybe.

Some have said that it's another James Bond styled movie theme, but that's not what I'm hearing. It does not have that depth or drama. Admittedly, you can't deny that it's sung exceptionally well, even if Valentina's accent is more obvious than in the past.

What she is singing about is a matter for debate. The lyrics seem to make no real sense. Is this a love song or is there a hidden statement trying to escape? Talk of oysters and pearls and dreams and peace produce no real synergy and leave the whole experience meaningless.

But, will viewers vote for it? I'd really like to think the song will garner enough interest to at least push it through to the Final. That would be a vindication of Valentina's efforts, if nothing else. That's what my heart tells me.

My head tells me that it's unlikely to happen, though. The song is just too bland and does not have a memorable enough hook to draw people in. A good stage presentation may make a difference, but with six songs failing to make the cut in San Marino's semi-final, I've a feeling that Maybe will be one of them.