B. Howard to Showcase American Talent at Russias Intervision Amid Michael Jackson Speculations

American R&B artist B. Howard will represent the United States at Russia’s equivalent of Eurovision, as announced by organizers on Thursday. The competition, named Intervision, brings back a Soviet-era alternative to Eurovision that took place briefly in the 1960s and 1970s. Following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the country was barred from participating in Eurovision in February 2022.

Organizers have praised Howard as a «world-class talent whose music crosses borders and connects cultures.» During the live broadcast on state-run Channel One, he will compete against Shaman, a pro-war pop singer from Russia, along with acts from 17 other nations.

At 43 years old, Howard has been the focus of media speculation regarding his physical resemblance to pop icon Michael Jackson and his ties to Jackson’s circle. However, alleged DNA tests yielded inconclusive results, and there is currently no evidence to substantiate these claims.

Scheduled to begin on September 20 of this year, Intervision brands itself as a «depoliticized» music celebration, though it is notable that senior Kremlin officials were personally appointed by Putin to the board and organizing committee in February.

Organizers mentioned that the 2025 event will feature artists from around the world, aiming to include representation from all continents. Recently, the United Arab Emirates and Azerbaijan have withdrawn from the competition, citing conflicts in scheduling.