Romania’s Eurovision entry, a song titled "Choke Me," has ignited controversy for its lyrics that seem to glamorize sexual strangulation, a dangerous act that poses risks of serious harm, including death. Critics have labeled the song as 'dangerous' and 'reckless,' particularly highlighting the repetitive nature of the phrase 'choke me,' which is echoed over thirty times throughout the track. The lyrics include alarming phrases like "It’s hard to breathe in" and "make my lungs explode," contributing to the outcry against the normalization of violent themes in music.

Prominent anti-violence campaigners have voiced their concerns, arguing that the song trivializes a significant issue affecting young women. Clare McGlynn, a law professor at Durham University, emphasized that the repeated messaging in the song shows a serious lack of care for women's health and wellbeing. She warns that promoting such a song through a prestigious platform like Eurovision could have widespread implications, potentially influencing the perception and acceptance of harmful practices among impressionable audiences.

As the music industry grapples with its role in relation to societal issues, this controversy serves as a stark reminder of the power of lyrics and imagery in shaping cultural norms. As Romania prepares for its Eurovision performance, the backlash highlights the need for greater scrutiny and responsibility in the messages conveyed through popular media, particularly those that might affect vulnerable groups.