Everyone loves an anniversary and this year the biggest singing competition in the world reaches the grand old age of 60. From its humble beginnings in 1956, Eurovision has delighted millions across the globe with its unique mix of cool, kitsch, and camp. For many participating artists, Eurovision has been the last chance to grasp one last hit as they reach the twilight of their career; for others its a once in a lifetime opportunity to launch an international career (see Abba and Celine Dion).
By spencer Barnett
The great and the good from all over Europe have set up camp in Vienna, currently preparing for the Grand Final on Saturday May 23rd. Two semi-finals precede this, the first on the 19th May and the second on the 21st May. Here we preview some of the runners and riders hoping to make it to the final.
Moldova. I Want Your Love by Eduard Romanyuta. 1st semi.
One of the standout songs for me after reviewing the entries. Sung by a young Ukranian singer whose home country had to withdraw from this year’s Eurovision due to the political unrest at home, he entered his song to represent neighboring Moldova and won. It’s catchy, classy and contemporary, not to mention performed by one of the hottest singers in Vienna – all the ingredients you need for success.
Finland. Aina mun pitää by Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät. 1st semi.
This entry is different, diverse and some may say disturbing. But it’s acts like this that make Eurovision what it is. Finland is sending four mentally disabled middle-aged men, formed as a group in 2009 and already well known at home. This is a hard-hitting punk rock song similar in style to Finland’s previous victory and they will be hoping to replicate that again should they reach the final.
Romania. All Over Again by Voltaj. 1st semi.
Voltaj won the best Romanian act at the MTV Music Awards in 2005 and is still going strong ten years later. The best Romanian entry in years, this should be a shoe-in for the Grand Final. Strong vocals and a catchy chorus will appeal to voters across Europe, making it a real contender for the country’s first Eurovision win.
Russia. A Million Voices by Polina Gagarina. 1st semi.
Sung in English, this song was put together by an international team of authors from Sweden, Australia and Russia. This is an anthemic, upbeat tune with instant likability and together with the inevitable block voting from all Russia’s neighbours it should easily pass the semis. Polina says she always wears a lucky perfume before performing. Could 2015 have the sweet smell of success for Russia?
The Netherlands. Walk Along by Trijntje Oosterhuis. 1st semi.
Having been a judge on the Voice in Holland this artist knows a thing or two about music. She has shared the stage with the likes of Andrea Bocelli, Herbie Hancock and Lionel Richie, so should take reaching the final in her stride. After being last year’s runner-up the Dutch will be hoping to go one better with this catchy, fresh song and walk along to the final.
Lithuania. This Time by Monika Linkyt and Vaidas Baumila. 2nd semi.
This easy listening song could have come from Ireland with its folksy, country feel. Monika had previously entered songs to represent Lithuania and is delighted to have been chosen for the first time. Vaidas used to sine on the Queen Elizabeth cruise ship so will already be familiar to some in the UK. With a gay kiss in their promotional video, this song is definitely one to support.
Israel. Golden Boy by Nadav Guedj. 2nd semi.
I interviewed Nadav last month in Tel Aviv and was impressed by his composure and maturity for such a young age. At 16 years old he is one of the youngest performers in this year’s contest and brings a powerful song, which skillfully blends a combination of European and Middle Eastern music. Israel hopes will take it to the final for the first time since 2010.
Iceland. Unbroken by María Ólafs. 2nd Semi.
Still desperate for their first win at Eurovision, Iceland hope to buck the trend and send their best entry in years in the form of multitalented actress, singer and songwriter, María Ólafs. From a small town of just 1000 people, this young and pretty performer was a relative unknown before Eurovision but hopes to make it big with her upbeat catchy performance.
For the first time, Australia is sending an entry in celebration of the competition’s 60th anniversary.
They have been broadcasting the show down under for decades and have a massive Eurovision fan-base. Australia will be joining France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK who are already in the final due to contributing most financially to the EBU (European Broadcasting Union).
As last year’s winner, courtesy of the unforgettable Conchita Wurst, Austria also qualifies automatically. The UK’s hopes are pinned on Electro Velvet whose hugely catchy song ‘Still In Love With You’ could bring home our first Eurovision victory since 1997.
For more information and preview videos on all this year’s entries go to https://eurovision.tv/
