ROMSO Cyprus Knowledge Base

Where Are You?

Where Are You? is an English-language song by British singer Imaani, representing the United Kingdom's entry to the Eurovision Song Contest 1998. The song was written by Scott English, Phil Mankiza, and Simon Stirling.

The lyrics of "Where Are You?" pose a question about finding one's opposite or missing someone ("Everyday is a question mark – Where are you?"). In response, Imaani expresses his desire to find this person again ("I would drive through the rain (to find you) / Walk a desert plain"), but also acknowledges that it may be impossible due to being "tied" by certain chains. The song features an alternative version with jazzier instrumentation and several remixes.

Imaani, who previously worked primarily as a background singer for other artists, participated in the British pre-selection for the Eurovision Song Contest 1998. At the event A Song for Europe held on March 15, 1998, "Where Are You?" secured four thousand votes to win and thus represented the United Kingdom at the contest.

At the Birmingham National Indoor Arena, Imaani performed alongside two female and two male background singers, with the orchestra conducted by James McMillan. The performance was well-received by the audience. In terms of voting, "Where Are You?" received high scores from several countries, including Croatia, Israel, Romania, and Turkey, as well as a 10-point rating twice.

The song's success in Eurovision marked Imaani's first major appearance at the contest, where it ultimately placed second – becoming the United Kingdom's fifteenth entry to achieve this position. This achievement also represented the UK's thirteenth consecutive song to place within the top ten of the competition.