The semi-final took place between 2 February 2010. The six competing artists each performed an original song and Maryam Shabanova, Milk &amp; Kisses and Safura Alizadeh were selected by the jury to advance to the final. In addition to the performances of the competing entries, Eurovision Song Contest 2004 winner Ruslana, Eurovision Song Contest 2009 winner Alexander Rybak and 2009 Azerbaijani Eurovision entrants AySel and Arash performed as guests.