"Battle of the Bands" presenter Jana Ina Zarrella reveals why a new casting band is needed and whether she is planning a music career.
Jana Ina Zarrella (43) moderates the new band casting show "Battle of the Bands – Boys vs. Girls", which starts on Thursday, July 30, 2020 at RTLzwei. In an interview with the news agency spot on news, the moderator explains why Germany needs a casting band again and what role music plays in her own family. In addition, she reveals what her own musical career is like – after all, she was on stage with her husband and singer Giovanni Zarrella (42, "La vita è bella") in 2019.
"Battle of the Bands" is a reality music show. What distinguishes it from a "normal" casting show?
Jana Ina Zarrella: We managed to make reality AND casting one. The spectators are always there, follow this special development process and can have a say. There has never been anything like it.
A casting show for bands has not existed in Germany for a long time. Why is that?
Zarrella: I assume that individual artists were more in demand for a while, but what would the music business be without a boy or girl band? The music history would not be the same if the Backstreet Boys or Spice Girls hadn't existed. Germany definitely needs a new band – and we take care of that.
How do you shoot "Battle of the Bands" under corona conditions?
Zarrella: Of course we work under strict hygiene conditions. The candidates are on a preventive quarantine and are being tested. The team is kept as small as possible, everyone works with a mask and distance. It is extremely important to us that everyone is and remains healthy.
Benni and Dennis Wolter will be part of the format as digital hosts. What exactly is your job and what do you appreciate about the two?
Zarrella: Benni and Dennis as digital hosts are the link between the TV broadcast and the app. They will perform "Backstage" on YouTube and greet exciting guests like one or the other exit candidate every week. They ensure that the stories of "Battle of the Bands" from the loft are told online. I am happy to be actively supported by both. We complement each other very well. The two are very crazy and have a rousing sense of humor.
Her husband participated in a band casting show. Is "pop stars" still a topic in your home?
Zarrella: Of course. Giovanni is very grateful for this time. Thanks to "Popstars" he has had one of the greatest German musical successes with Bro'Sis. He made friends for life and was able to live musically. That is why he is totally committed to casting shows and supports everyone who wants to take this step.
What role does music play in your everyday family life?
Zarrella: We are a very musical family. First, music is turned on in the morning and my husband sings all day. My father-in-law sings and plays the guitar, our children play drums. We always have something going on!
You were on stage with your husband for a duet in 2019. How was the moment for you
Zarrella: It was extremely exciting for me. I love to be in front of the camera, but as soon as I have to sing, I am super excited. I am glad that Giovanni was by my side. I held his hand and pressed it pretty hard. Giovanni wanted people for his album "La vita è bella" whom he loves and who are part of his life. You can't say no!
You emphasized that it was a one-off. Do you still see it that way?
Zarrella: It stays that way – even if it was a wonderful experience and a special moment. He is the singer in the family who does it well and successfully. He loves and lives music. Therefore, I prefer to stay with my moderation and my model jobs, which I love very much and have worked hard for.