As the first of two non-English-speaking Acts in the Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D Finals, French singer Soline Bellefort qualified with confidence, conviction, and a clear sense of purpose.
Soline’s path to the Finals has already made her one of the Contest’s most talked-about Acts. Her Round 7 performance saw her edge through a tightly fought battle amongst other powerful singers, and she now stands among the Finalists with a song designed to showcase vocal power and artistic control.
Speaking through a translator, she reflected on what the Contest means to her, the creative choices behind her entry, and the fierce competitive spirit that carried her through the Knockouts.
What does the Contest mean to you?
Soline expressed herself without hesitation.
It means recognition of excellence. It is a chance to be heard properly, by people with refined ears and real appreciation for vocal artistry.
She added that reaching the Finals is a source of immense pride, and one she sees as a vindication of her approach.
To be a Finalist is not small. It is proof that ambition, technique, and presence can rise above noise.
Tell us about your version of the song.
Soline described her entry as a deliberate attempt to demonstrate vocal superiority among the Finalists.
The production is clean, but not cold. I wanted the arrangement to support the voice, not distract from it. The song is about control with clarity, and making every phrase matter.
I did not want to hide behind effects. I wanted the song to stand or fall on performance.
Why use the word “perfect”?
One of the most discussed details in Soline’s entry is her use of the English word “perfect,” which immediately drew attention for an Act that insists on speaking French.
Because it is understood everywhere. And because in this context, it is not about language. It is about judgement. It is about the idea of perfection being visible even when others do not wish to see it.
On the other Finalists
When asked which Finalist she would like to see win if not herself, Soline chose her answer carefully.
If not me, then perhaps someone who has truly earned the moment through discipline and originality. I respect strength.
Asked which of the other Finalists stood out to her, she acknowledged that several had made an impression.
There are Finalists with strong identities. Some are bold, some are technically impressive, some are very memorable. But standing out is not the same as being the best.
Tension with Clémence Duval
The interview comes amid reported tension with Clémence Duval (knocked out in Round 4), following an exchange that allegedly left Clémence in tears. Soline declined to dwell on the incident, but did not appear eager to soften her stance.
I noticed similarities [with her Knockout Stage entry] before others did. That is all I will say.
Soline’s unusually glamourised profile image has also prompted speculation that it was a pointed comment toward Clémence, who is widely admired for her beauty. She would not confirm the intention, but noticeably smiled when the subject was raised.
What comes after the Contest?
Looking ahead, Soline said the Contest is only one step in a larger artistic journey.
After this, I will continue to perform, record songs, and build a career that reflects the standard I expect from myself.
She also made clear that she intends to leave the Contest with her head held high, with or without the title of Grand Winner.
If I win, it is justice. If I do not, it will say more about unrefined tastes than about my work.
Whether admired for her precision, her candour, or her uncompromising self-belief, Soline Bellefort has made herself impossible to ignore in the Finals. Her entry is a statement of intent: elegant, forceful, and designed to be heard above the noise.
About the Contest
Real Figures Don’t F.O.L.D is a collaboration between CATAWOL Records and the MODE Family, in the form of a song contest. 32 of the label’s most talented Acts compete to create the campaign’s official anthem, raising awareness of bullying in hobby spaces.
CATAWOL Records is proud to support the Finalists as they share their voices on a larger stage, while celebrating creativity, resilience, and community.