Greek public broadcaster ERT asked singer Maria Rizou to represent the country at the Eurovision song contest being held in Stockholm in 2016. It is rumored that her name was chosen after an internal panel at ERT decided that it had a non-commercial quality being sought for this year’s representation. The singer admitted that an offer had been made but said that she had to reject it as her team didn’t feel ready or able to take on the challenge.

The goal of ERT is to send a piece that is penned in Greece and has its pulse on the alternative scene. A pop band in Thessaloniki is also currently being considered and there are rumors that singer Tamta would give an eye and a leg to represent Greece – though she may be considered too commercial for the running.