The hunt is on in Sweden, too, and the submission period is over. This year 2.478 entries arrived in time, slightly more than last year. Karin Gunnarsson is the new woman in charge at this point and she tells their aim is to get as many new songwriters in as possible, those who have never participated before and Christer Björkman says it's a bit easier this year as half the songs last year had chart success after MF.
"Karin's exactly what we've been looking for. She has both the innovative thinking that knowledge of the industry and sense of what Melodifestivalen needs" says Christer.
"New artists, songs and sound are a never ending source which year after year continues to fascinate and interest me. It is a privilege to work and share it to a large and enthusiastic audience. I'm incredibly proud to be a part of SVT and the Eurovision Song Contest", says Karin.
Karin has worked at Sveriges Radio P3 as music editor for over ten years with music-related projects P3 Gold, Musikhjälpen and P3 Love tour. 2013 was Karin's first year in Melodifestivalen selection panel and she has participated in the jury since.
Melodifestivalen continues with its familiar formula:
Semifinal one - February 4, 2017 - Gothenburg
Semifinal two - February 11, 2017 - Malmö
Semifinal three - February 18, 2017 - Växjö
Semifinal four - February 25, 2017 - Skellefteå
Second Chance round - March 4, 2017 - Linköping
Final - March 11, 2017 - Stockholm
