Few artists have managed to bridge the worlds of metal, mainstream music, and international competition as naturally as Alexandra Căpitănescu. After capturing attention with her powerful voice and artistic versatility, the Romanian singer continues to expand her musical horizons, exploring heavier sounds while working on new material and reflecting on her Eurovision experience.
In this interview with RockOverdose's, Zisis Petkanas, Alexandra opens up about her connection to metal music, the impact Eurovision has had on her career, and what fans can expect from her upcoming releases.
RockOverdose: Hello Alexandra and welcome to RockOverdose.
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Hello. I'm really glad to be here.
RockOverdose: How did your journey into the world of music originally begin? Was there a specific moment or a particular artist that made you realize you wanted to become a professional singer and songwriter?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Music has been part of my life for as long as I can remember. I grew up singing everywhere—at home, at school, at family gatherings. There wasn't one single moment when I decided to become a singer; it happened naturally as I realized that music was the place where I felt most alive and most myself. Over the years, I discovered artists from many different genres, and each of them shaped me in some way. What made me pursue music professionally was the feeling I got every time I stepped on stage—the connection with people and the freedom to express emotions that words alone can't always capture.
RockOverdose: The rock and metal community in Greece and worldwide has truly embraced your energy. What is your personal opinion about metal music, and what do you think sets the rock/metal scene apart from other genres?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: I've always admired the honesty of metal music. People often focus on the heaviness, but what attracts me is the emotional depth and authenticity. The rock and metal community feels incredibly passionate and genuine. Fans don't just listen to the music—they live it. There's a sense of belonging and mutual respect that I find beautiful. The energy at rock and metal shows is unlike anything else, and I've felt nothing but love and support from the community.
RockOverdose: As a rock and metal listener yourself, which are your all-time favorite bands or artists? Are there any specific albums that have deeply influenced your vocal style and performance?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: My musical taste is quite diverse, but I've always been inspired by artists who combine power with emotion. I love artists like Lady Gaga, Michael Jackson, Freddie Mercury, Linkin Park, Sleep Token, and Bring Me The Horizon. I'm constantly discovering new music, and I think every artist I listen to leaves a small mark on my own style.
RockOverdose: You ranked 3rd at Eurovision 2026! Your song "Choke Me" brought a raw, unapologetic rock energy to a mainstream stage. How did it feel to represent Romania, and how did the audience react to your wild energy in Vienna?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Representing Romania was one of the greatest honors of my life. Eurovision is a huge platform, and bringing a rock song to that stage felt both exciting and challenging. The reaction from the audience exceeded all my expectations. Seeing people sing along, jump, scream, and connect with the performance was unforgettable. Vienna gave us incredible energy, and I felt that every second on stage. Finishing in third place was amazing, but the connection with the audience is what I'll remember forever.
RockOverdose: "Choke Me" features powerful and dramatic lyrics. While some initially misinterpreted it, you explained that it's actually a vulnerable anthem about breaking free from toxic environments, overcoming fears, and regaining your inner strength. Could you share more about the lyrical inspiration behind this track?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Absolutely. "Choke Me" was born from a very personal place. The title sounds provocative, but the song is actually about reclaiming your power after feeling trapped by fear, expectations, or unhealthy situations. We all go through moments when it feels like something is holding us back, and the song is about finding the courage to breathe again, to stand up for yourself, and to move forward. I wanted people to feel empowered, not defeated. The vulnerability in the lyrics is intentional because strength often comes from acknowledging our struggles rather than hiding them.
RockOverdose: Metalheads were thrilled to see you join forces with the renowned Romanian folk metal band E-an-na for tracks like "Samsara" live. How did this collaboration come to life, and do you see yourself exploring more heavy metal or folk-metal subgenres in the near future?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Working with E-an-na was an incredible experience. I've admired their creativity and the way they blend traditional Romanian influences with modern metal. The collaboration happened very naturally through our shared love for live music and experimentation. Performing "Samsara" together was unforgettable. As for the future, I'm definitely open to exploring heavier sounds and even more folk-metal influences. I love challenging myself artistically, and I think there are still many musical territories for me to discover.
RockOverdose: Beside your music career, you are currently pursuing a Master's degree in Medical Physics in Bucharest. How do you manage to balance academic labs with late-night rock stages? Do science and music connect for you in any strange way?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Sometimes I ask myself the same question! (laughs) It can be difficult, but I've learned to be very organized. Both music and science require discipline, curiosity, and perseverance. People often see them as opposites, but for me they complement each other. Science challenges my analytical side, while music feeds my creativity. In a strange way, both are about understanding the world - just through different languages.
RockOverdose: You recently dropped a brand-new single titled "HEAT" via Universal Music Romania. What can you tell us about the sonic direction of this song? Does it continue down the heavy, energetic path of "Choke Me"?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: "HEAT" definitely carries some of the intensity that people loved in "Choke Me", but it also explores a slightly different side of my sound. It's energetic, bold, and emotional, but with new textures and influences. I never want to repeat myself, so every release is an opportunity to evolve. I think listeners will hear familiar elements while also discovering something fresh.
RockOverdose: Following your 2024 EP "Căpitanu'", do you have plans for a full-length album soon? Also, you have a massive headline show coming up at The Underworld in London this October—how excited are you to take your music on an international tour?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: An album is definitely something we want to do. We're constantly writing, experimenting, and collecting ideas, so it's a matter of finding the right moment and the right story to tell. As for London, I'm incredibly excited. Playing at The Underworld is a dream, and I can't wait to meet fans from different countries. Taking my music beyond Romania is something I've worked toward for a long time, so this feels very special.
RockOverdose: During the London Eurovision Party, you surprised everyone by performing a brilliant rock cover of Eleni Foureira's Eurovision hit "Fuego"! What made you choose that song, and are there any plans to visit Greece for a live performance soon?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: "Fuego" is such an iconic Eurovision song, and I thought it would be fun to reimagine it through a rock lens. I love taking songs people already know and giving them a completely different energy. The audience's reaction was amazing. As for Greece, I would absolutely love to perform there. The support I've received from Greek fans has been incredible, and I truly hope we'll have the chance to meet very soon.
RockOverdose: To close this interview, what message would you like to send to the Greek rockers and metalheads who read RockOverdose and support your music?
Alexandra Căpitănescu: Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Your support means more than you can imagine. The passion, kindness, and energy you've shown me have been incredible. I hope my music continues to inspire and empower you the same way your support inspires me. Keep being loud, keep being yourselves, and hopefully I'll see you all in Greece very soon. Much love!
For Rock Overdose,
Zisis Petkanas
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