SunStroke Project

Formation

Sunstroke Project, a Moldovan band, was formed in 2008, emerging from the creative minds of its founding members. The name was inspired by an incident involving Anton Ragoza, who experienced heat stroke during military exercises with Sergey Stepanov. This unique backstory adds a personal touch to the band's identity.

Key Releases and Eurovision Success

The group gained significant recognition after representing Moldova in the Eurovision Song Contest 2010 with their hit song "Run Away," performed alongside Olia Tira. This marked a pivotal moment in their career, showcasing their pop music style on an international stage. In 2017, they returned to Eurovision with the song "Hey Mamma," finishing in third place, further solidifying their status in the music scene.

Lineup Changes and Evolution

Initially, the band included Anton Ragoza, who departed in 2019, leaving Sergei Yalovitsky and saxophonist Sergey Stepanov as the core members. The band has seen various lineup changes, including a brief collaboration with vocalist Pasha Parfeni from late 2008 to summer 2009, during which they released three singles and competed in the Eurovision 2009 pre-selection.

Legacy

Sunstroke Project's influence in the pop music genre, particularly in Moldova, is notable. Their unique sound and engaging performances have earned them a dedicated fan base and a place in the history of Eurovision, showcasing the potential of Moldovan artists on the global stage.