When the band Korslagda Kukar deleted the last part of their name, there was an outcry among the most die-hard fans. But it hasn't affected the band, except in a positive way.
"After the name change, things have gone better than ever and we have never sold as many tickets to a tour as we do now. There has only been a small, vocal minority who want to own the band and think the worst that can happen is that we become popular," says guitarist Håkan Sörle.
No swearing
Crossed do not shy away from political messages in their lyrics – and many have thought they played gender rock because of their former band name. But that is nothing that has put a damper on their participation in Melodifestivalen.
This is actually the second time we've applied, we submitted a song last year too. Our goal is to teach all the millions of children who watch about real rock 'n' roll, says Stefan Sjur.
To reach out to the audience, the band has planned to have a slightly cleaner image than before.
"Maybe we should take care of our language a little when it's on TV. No swearing," says Håkan Sörle.
KAJ shouted
Participation in Melodifestivalen also means a chance to win and represent Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest, which will next be held in Vienna, Austria. The fact that KAJ stormed to victory and became the favorite last year may have left the way wide open for more obscure acts – such as Korslagta?
"We don't think about it at all. That day, that sadness, I was about to say," says Stefan Sjur.
Drummer Andreas Bölling adds:
But if we win, it's great fun. We won't turn down the win.
