Blog - Page 28 of 132 - Eurovision Universe

🇮🇱 🇲🇹 National final season started already

France has already decided for a song and Czechia is about to do so. But two more countries have started their national selections. An update: Israel It is not a big surprise, the Israel-Hamas war influenced their national selection. The show was postponed, in the first show segments of the Israeli Defence Force were shown and the second show was postponed again due to a press conference about the hostages. However, two shows of HaKokhav Haba were shown so far. HaKokhav Haba (Rising Star) is the national final, as it was between 2015-2020. Every auditioning artist has to get 70% of the votes in order to get through to the next round. 22 November Shay Tamino, 85% Lian Biran, 97% Eliya Sharabi, 56% Eden Golan, 100% 2 December: Moriya Angel, 96% Jonathan Bitton, 86% Malka, 45% Arik Sinai, 90% Arik Sinai participated before. He earned a 4th place….. back in 1985!! Malta Malta has had four semifinals in October and November: 27 October Kurt Calleja, “Misunderstood” Sarah Bonnici, “Loop” Gail Attard, “Wild card” Mark Anthony Bartolo, “Condition or Fiction” Eliana Gomez Blanco, “There’s Only Flowers” Oxygyn, “Cloudmaker” Nathan, “Ghost” Lyndsay Pace, “Fire proof” Dominic Cini, “Bewsa” Kurt Calleja became 3rd in 2011, won in 2012 and represented Malta in the Eurovision Song Contest with “This is the night”.Sarah Bonnici took part in X-Factor Malta 2019 and became 12th in 2022.Gail Attard also took part in X-Factor Malta 2019.Mark Anthony Bartolo also took part in X-Factor Malta 2019, became 11th in 2022 and reached the semifinal in 2023.Eliana Gomez Blanco was 9th in 2023.Nathan was 11th in 2022.Lyndsay Pace took part in the 2015 semifinal and, of course, in X-Factor Malta 2019.Dominic Cini was involved in the 2009 semifinal. 3 November Marie-Claire, “Fading” Franklin Calleja, “Puppet” Desirei Grech, “Watch Me” Sopranique, “Empire” Janvil, “Man” Haley Azzopardi, “Tell Me That It’s Over” Denise Mercieca, “Mara” Mark Portelli, “Just be” Maria Christina, “Moving On” Marie-Claire took part in the 2023 semifinal.Franklin Calleja took part in 2013 (semifinal), 2014 (7th) and X-Factor Malta 2019 (10th).Janvil or J. Anvil took part in 2005 (3rd), 2006 (4th), 2009 (10th), 2010 (semifinal), 2011 (10th) and 2012 (14th).Denise Mercieca was involved in the auditions of X-Factor Malta 2019 and in 2022 (5th). Also Mark Portelli and Maria Christina took part in the auditions of X-Factor Malta 2019. 10 november Jessica Micallef, “Tagħna Tnejn” Cosette Baldacchino, “Free fall” Michela Galea, “Let’s talk about love” Thea Aqulina, “Blood stream” Miguel Bonello, “Better off alone” Moira Stafrace, “Feather flight” Dan, “Baraxx” Stefan Galea, “Numb” Karin Duff, “Breaking bad” Jessica Micallef auditioned for X-Factor Malta 2020. Michela Galea did the same in 2019. Miguel Bonello did an attempt in both years.Moira Stafrace took part in 1992 (2nd), 1993 (final), 1994 (winner in duet with Christopher Scicluna). Chris and Moira represented Malta in 1994 with “More than love) .Dan auditioned for X-Factor Malta 2020 and took part in 2023 (12th).Stefan Galea was involved in 2016 (semifinal), X-Factor Malta 2019 (auditions) and in 2023 (16th). 17 November Erba’, “Sirena” Miriana Conte, “Venom” Christian Arding, “Bellus” Lisa Gauci, “Breath” Matt Blxck, “Banana” Martina Cutajar, “Miles away” Greta Tude, “Topic (bla bla)” Ryan Hill, “Karma” Kyle George, “Arrows” Miriana Conte took part in 2017 (16th), 2018 (12th), in the X-Factor Malta 2019 and 2020, 2022 (6th), Already in 2006, Christian Arding took part (5th), and in 2009 (semifinal) and 2023 (10th).Matt Blxck took part in X-Factor Malta 2019 (auditions), 2020 (auditions), 2022 (7th) and 2023 (4th).Greta Tude reached the semifinal in 2023. The names in bold letters go through to the final in January.

🇮🇸 Blast from the Past: Iceland 1989

We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today this year’s last one before we fully head over to the national final season: Iceland 1989. Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest Iceland’s journey in the Eurovision Song Contest is a tale of persistence, creativity, and cultural expression. Debuting in 1986, this small island nation has become a Eurovision staple, despite never securing the coveted first place. Iceland’s music scene, known for its distinctiveness and innovation, is reflected in their Eurovision entries, ranging from pop and rock to avant-garde and electronic. Iceland’s near-victories include the uptempo song Selma presented in 1999: “All Out Of Luck” and Yohanna‘s heartfelt ballad “Is It True?” in 2009. Both songs reached a 2nd place. Daði og Gagnamagnið‘s quirky, yet catchy “Think About Things” was the top favourite to win in 2020. Unfortunately it didn’t happen as the contest was cancelled due to COVID19. One Icelandic entry ended up with a zero: “Það sem enginn sér” by Daniel Ágúst Haraldsson. That is the song we talk about today. photo: RUV Söngvakeppnin 1989 The Icelandic national final is called Söngvakeppnin. In 1989 it contained only five songs, being: “Það sem enginn sér“, by Daniel Ágúst Haraldsson, 66 pts, 1st “Þú leiddir mig i ljós“, by Jóhanna Linnet, 30 pts, 5th “Linudans“, by Ellen Kristjánsdóttir & Mannakorn, 58 pts, 2nd “Sóley“, by Björgvin Halldórsson & Katla Maria, 44 pts, 4th “Alpatwist” by Bítlavinafélagið, 58 pts, 2nd When the winner was announced, it was not a happy moment for Daniel. Whoever saw the national final could conclude that the singer didn’t express a single sign of happiness. The entire show can be watched here. Daniel Ágúst Haraldsson Daniel Ágúst Haraldsson, an Icelandic musician with a distinctive artistic vision, has carved a unique niche in the world of music. Born on August 26, 1969, in Reykjavik, Iceland, Daniel Ágúst grew up in a country known for its rich musical heritage and stunning landscapes, both of which have influenced his artistic journey. Daniel Ágúst’s musical career began to take shape in the 1980s when he co-founded the band Nýdönsk, one of Iceland’s most popular bands. Known for their blend of rock and brass, Nýdönsk became a cornerstone of the Icelandic music scene. His tenure with Nýdönsk showcased his versatility as a musician and his ability to blend different genres seamlessly. In 1989, as said, he won Söngvakeppnin and thus represented Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest. Unfortunately, Daniel didn’t manage to earn any points with his song. In 1994, Daniel Ágúst’s musical direction took a significant turn when he joined GusGus, a collective known for its eclectic mix of electronic, house, and techno music. As one of the founding members, he contributed to the band’s first two albums, notably their self-titled debut and “Polydistortion,” which gained international acclaim. His work with GusGus solidified his reputation as a talented and innovative artist in the electronic music scene. After his stint with GusGus, Daniel Ágúst embarked on a solo career, exploring new musical territories. His solo debut, “Swallowed a Star” (2005), was a critical success, lauded for its experimental approach and emotional depth. The album demonstrated his ability to craft intricate soundscapes that are both haunting and beautiful. Aside from his band and solo work, Daniel Ágúst has been involved in various collaborations and projects, contributing to film soundtracks and working with other artists. Það sem enginn sér “Það sem enginn sér” stands out for its emotive and introspective nature, showcasing Daniel Ágúst’s distinctive vocal style. The song’s lyrical depth, exploring themes of introspection and the unseen struggles of the human experience, resonated with the Icelandic audience, making it a strong choice for Eurovision. The song was written and composed by Valgeir Guðjónsson, who previously wrote the 1987 Icelandic entry for Halla Márgret. However, despite its artistic merit and Daniel Ágúst’s compelling performance, “Það sem enginn sér” faced an unexpected setback at the contest. In a turn of events that stunned both the Icelandic delegation and Eurovision fans, the song received zero points, joining the infamous “nul points” club in Eurovision history.

🇵🇹 Blast from the Past: Portugal 1994

We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today we want to honour Sara Tavares, who participated for Portugal in 1994. She passed away last Sunday. Portugal in the Eurovision Song Contest Portugal started participating in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1964. It all started with a zero. This was the starting signal for a long and not easy road for Portugal. The idiosyncratic entries the country had often finished low. Exceptions were Carlos Mendes (1958) and José Cid (1980), both of whom reached a seventh place. In 1996, Lucia Moniz finished in sixth place with her “O meu coração não tem cor”. But for a victory, Portugal had to wait until 2017. It was Salvador Sobral who managed to enchant both the televoters and the professional jury with his subdued song “Amar pelos dois”. It turned into a landslide victory for the Portuguese; something they had been waiting for so long. photo: EBU/Andres Putting Festival RTP Da Canção 1994 The national final in Portugal is always called Festival RTP Da Canção. This year, two semifinals were held, on 10 and 17 january. Each of the semifinals contained 10 songs. Among them, Marco Quelhas, who represented Portugal in the 2001 contest as a half of the duo MTM. Eight songs headed to the final: Isabel Campelo, “Malmequer do Campo“, 122 pts, 3rd Trivium, “Trovas do Demo e d’el Rei“, 84 pts, 5th Pedro Miguéis, “Todos Nós Alguma Vez“, 136 pts, 2nd Inova Fora Nada, “O Vento Sabe o Que Quer“, 83 pts, 6th José Carvalho, “Lisboa, Minha Linda Cidade“, 92 pts, 4th Fernanda Lopes, “Se Fores Poema“, 75 pts, 7th Tó Carlos, “Ai Dona Inês“, 46 pts, 8th Sara Tavares, “Chamar a Música“, 220 pts, 1st As you can see, Sara Tavares won with a landslide, 84 points ahead of the runner up! Sara Tavares Sara Alexandra Lima Tavares, born on February 1, 1978, in Lisbon, Portugal, was a renowned Portuguese singer, composer, guitarist, and percussionist. Of Cape Verdean descent, her parents immigrated to Portugal and settled in Almada in the 1970s. Tavares grew up in Lisbon and faced early family challenges, with her father leaving and her mother moving south with her siblings, leaving Sara in the care of an older woman. Tavares exhibited remarkable musical talent from a young age. In 1994, at just 16, she won the national television song contest “Chuva de Estrelas,” performing Whitney Houston’s “One Moment in Time.” That same year, she triumphed at the “Festival da Canção,” earning a spot in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest. Her winning song, “Chamar a Música,” was included on her debut EP, “Sara Tavares & Shout” (1996), where she blended gospel and funk with Portuguese influences. Her debut album “Mi Ma Bô,” produced by Lokua Kanza, was released in 1999. In 2017, Tavares released the album “Fitxadu,”. It was inspired by Lisbon’s diverse African sounds and cultures, showcasing a more electronic and urban sound. The album earned a Latin Grammy nomination for Best Portuguese Language Roots Album. Tavares was multilingual, composing in Portuguese, Portuguese-based Creole languages, and occasionally English. Sara was known for singing the European-Portuguese version of “God Help the Outcasts” from the Disney movie “The Hunchback of Notre Dame,”. She won a Disney Award for the best version of the original song with it. She also won a Portuguese Golden Globe for Best Portuguese Singer in 2000. photo: Henryk Kotowski Tavares passed away on November 19, 2023, in Lisbon at the age of 45, after a long battle with a brain tumor diagnosed since 2009. Her death was a great shock in the Eurovision community. Chamar a Música “Chamar a Música,” the captivating song that Sara Tavares performed at the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest, showcases her exceptional talent as a young artist. At just 16 years old, Tavares brought this melodic and emotionally resonant piece to the Eurovision stage, representing Portugal with grace and artistry. The song is characterized by its smooth, soulful melody. It is blending elements of Portuguese musical tradition with contemporary influences. Although Tavares’ performance was well-received, it ultimately placed 8th in the competition. Despite this, “Chamar a Música” remains a significant part of her early career, reflecting her deep connection to her cultural roots.

🇵🇹 In memoriam: Sara Tavares

The sad news came to us that today, 19th November 2023, Portuguese singer Sara Tavares passed away. Sara represented Portugal in the 1994 Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Chamar a musica”. Sara Tavares was a multifaceted artist whose music blended her Cape Verdean roots with world music influences. She was born on February 1, 1978, in Lisbon, Portugal. Raised in a multilingual environment, her exposure to diverse cultures and musical traditions at an early age shaped her eclectic musical style. Sara’s talent was first recognized when she won two significant Portuguese music contests, including the televised Chuva de Estrelas, at the age of 16. This early success laid the foundation for her musical career. In the same year, she won Festival Da Canção, the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest. She reached an 8th place in the international final in Dublin, one of the higher scores for Portugal. Her debut album, “Sara Tavares & Shout,” released in 1996, showcased her unique blend of African, Portuguese, and world rhythms, establishing her as a promising new voice in world music. Tavares’ artistry is characterized by soulful melodies, rich harmonies, and a blend of languages, predominantly Portuguese and Cape Verdean Creole, which she seamlessly weaves into her songs. Following her debut, Tavares took a brief hiatus to refine her sound and direction. She reemerged with “Mi Ma Bô” in 1999, an album that further solidified her unique musical identity, combining traditional African sounds with contemporary influences. Tavares’ renewed breakthrough came with her 2006 album “Balancê,” which earned critical acclaim and expanded her international audience. It showcased her matured songwriting and a deeper exploration of her African roots, featuring hits like “Bom Feeling” and “Balancê.” Her subsequent album, “Xinti,” released in 2009, continued this trajectory, delving deeper into the exploration of her identity and heritage. The album was a critical success, praised for its introspective lyrics and rich, multi-layered compositions. Beyond music, Tavares is known for her activism and advocacy for cultural diversity and inclusion. She has been a vocal advocate for the African diaspora’s culture, using her music as a bridge between different cultures and generations. Sara Tavares suffered of a brain tumor and passed away at age 45.

🇮🇪 Blast from the Past: Ireland 1979

We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today: Cathal Dunne, who represented Ireland in 1979 with the song “Happy man”. Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest Ireland’s journey in the Eurovision Song Contest reads like a tale of two eras. Once the undeniable monarchs of Eurovision, their story is a mix of triumph and challenge, a saga of unparalleled success followed by a period of struggle. In the golden age of Irish Eurovision history, the nation didn’t just participate; they dominated. Their legacy began with Dana’s “All Kinds of Everything” in 1970. The 1980s saw Johnny Logan emerge as a Eurovision icon. His “What’s Another Year” in 1980 and “Hold Me Now” in 1987 didn’t just win; they brought him the title Mr. Eurovision. Linda Martin, with “Why Me?” in 1992, written by none other than Logan, added another chapter to this story. The 1990s continued to smile on Ireland, with Niamh Kavanagh’s “In Your Eyes” in 1993 and the duo of Paul Harrington & Charlie McGettigan with “Rock ‘n’ Roll Kids” in 1994. Eimear Quinn’s “The Voice” in 1996 was perhaps the zenith of this era. In recent years, Ireland struggles and hardly reaches the final. Johnny Logan, 1987 The Irish National Song Contest 1979 On the 4th of February, the Irish National Song Contest was held. Eight songs were performed, and regional juries chose the winner. Some familiar names could be found on the shortlist: Tweed, “No restrictions“, 4 pts, 5th Johnny Logan, “Angie”, 15 pts, 3rd Anderson, “Goodbye”, 3 pts, 6th The Memories, “The main attraction“, 13 pts, 4th Red Hurley and Tina, “Hiding behind our smile”, 0 pts, 8th Cathal Dunne, “Happy man“, 36 pts, 1st Catriona Walsh, “Superstar”, 3 pts, 6th The Miami Show Band, “Too much is going on”, 26 pts, 2nd Both Red Hurley and Tina represented Ireland before, but faced a zero this time. Totally unknown, but soon to become one of the biggest Eurovision stars ever, Johnny Logan, made his debut in this national final. Cathal Dunne Cathal Dunne, born in 1951 in Cork, Ireland, is a renowned Irish singer, widely recognized for his participation in the 1979 Eurovision Song Contest. He represented Ireland with the song “Happy Man,” which became quite popular, reaching No. 3 in the Irish charts. Dunne’s musical journey began early, influenced by his uncle, Jack Lynch, the former Taoiseach (prime minister) of Ireland. After graduating from University College Cork and Montfort College of Performing Arts in 1974, Dunne quickly made his mark in the music industry. He won the Castlebar Song Contest that same year with “Shalom” and participated in the Yamaha Music Festival in 1976 with “Lover, Not a Wife.” His single “Bad Boy” and top ten hit “Danny” further established his presence in the Irish music scene. He was also known for his performances with his backing bands, Stateside and later The Formula, in Irish clubs. In 1981, Dunne’s song “We’ll be there” was featured in Fianna Fáil’s general election campaign. His Eurovision entry “Happy Man” won him the Irish National Song Contest, beating notable competitors like Tina Reynolds, Red Hurley, and future winner Johnny Logan. He finished fifth in the Eurovision final in Jerusalem. Dunne’s move to the United States in the early 1980s marked a new chapter in his career. Settling there permanently after initial concerts in Michigan in 1982, he embraced the role of a traditional Irish balladeer, releasing several albums and diversifying his performances with comedy and show tunes. His continued dedication to music has kept him connected to his Irish roots while entertaining audiences in his adopted home. Happy Man As said, “Happy Man” was Ireland’s entry in the Eurovision Song Contest held in Jerusalem that year. This ballad with its optimistic lyrics stood out as a cheerful and engaging composition. Dunne, not just the performer but also the songwriter, showcased his multifaceted talent through this entry. The song’s essence, encapsulated in its title, reflects a positive and content outlook on life. Its light-hearted and jubilant nature resonated with audiences, leading to a respectable fifth-place finish in the contest. This achievement was significant, considering the competitive nature of Eurovision and the diverse array of musical styles it encompasses. “Happy Man” enjoyed commercial success following the contest, particularly in Ireland where it reached number three on the charts. The song remains a memorable part of Cathal Dunne’s musical career.

Malmö will be united by music

The slogan of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest has been revealed: United By Music. Big questionmark on the head of many Eurovision fans…. United By Music was the 2023 slogan, wasn’t it? True, but the EBU has decided that, from now on, it will be a permanent slogan. The EBU announced it with a video, mentioning all the slogans since A Modern Fairytale in 2002. Marcus Österdahl on this change: “The Eurovision Song Contest is more than just a song competition; it’s a celebration of the power of music to bring people together. After over 20 years of using different slogans, and as we approach our 70th anniversary, we feel we have found one that truly encapsulates our brand. “By establishing a permanent slogan, we will have consistency in our message that music unites us all. It’s the perfect slogan to underline our values of inclusivity, equality, universality and celebrating diversity through music. As the popularity of the Eurovision Song Contest continues to grow around the world, we believe using the same slogan annually will help our brand become even stronger.”

🇫🇷 Slimane represents France

photo: eurovision.tv Today, French television announced that Slimane will be their representative in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö. The song will be called “Mon amour” and will be revealed today. Biography Slimane Nebchi, known simply as Slimane, is a French artist. Born on October 13, 1989, in Chelles, Seine-et-Marne, he is of Algerian heritage, a fact that enriches his music with a blend of cultures. He first stepped into the limelight through various music competitions like “Nouvelle Star” and “X Factor”. His persistence paid off when he won the fifth season of “The Voice: la plus belle voix” in 2016, at the age of 26, with an impressive 33% of the public vote. Prior to his success on The Voice, Slimane’s musical journey was filled with online releases of his own compositions, such as “Toi et moi” and “Amour Impossible“, the latter being a duet with Princesse Sofia. After his victory on The Voice, Slimane’s career soared. He released his debut album and multiple singles, establishing himself as a significant figure in the French music industry. His achievements are not limited to the recording studio. He has also been cast in secondary roles in musicals, such as Didier Barbelivien’s French musical “Marie-Antoinette et le Chevalier de Maison-Rouge”. Slimane’s comments Of course, Slimane had his comments himself on his election for the Eurovision Song Contest: ‘It’s hard not to look in the rear-view mirror now that I know I’ll be representing my country at Eurovision! It’s completely crazy when I think about it. My first concerts in the bars of Pigalle, it seems like yesterday. My father taking me to my first casting. And then The Voice. My encounter with the public. The wonderful public that gave me the strength and desire to take on one of the greatest challenges of my career. It’s an immense source of pride. A real responsibility too. In May, I’ll be singing in front of almost 200 million people. I’ll be singing for my parents. For my daughter. For France. And for you, you for whom I wrote this song…’ The song The song is called “Mon Amour”. The song has been published tonight. Do you like it?

🇲🇪 Blast from the Past: Montenegro 2009

We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today: Andrea Demirović, singing “Just Get Out Of My Life”. Montenegro in the Eurovision Song Contest Montenegro made its debut as an independent nation in the competition in 2007, following the dissolution of Serbia and Montenegro, which had previously competed together. Montenegro’s participation has been marked by a series of ups and downs. Initially, Montenegro struggled to make an impact in the contest. Their debut entry, “Ajde Kroči” by Stevan Faddy, failed to qualify for the final. This set a precedent for the country’s early years in the competition, with several non-qualifications following. Montenegro’s most successful entry to date came in 2015, when Knez represented the country with the song “Adio”. This song qualified for the grand final and finished in 13th place. However, maintaining this level of success has been challenging. Following “Adio”, Montenegro has had a mixed record at the contest, with more non-qualifications. The country has occasionally decided to withdraw from the competition, as was the case in 2010 and 2011 due to financial reasons, and again after the 2019 contest. In 2023 the country did not take part either. Participation in 2024 is not yet confirmed. National Selection 2009 Montenegro decided to select their entry internally. The submission period opened on December 27 and closed on January 20. A total of 22 songs were submitted. Although the selection was not public, several titles were leaked: Free Jack, “Ljubav se san” Ivan Čanović and Merima Njegomir, “Kad bi dao Bog” Nina Petković, “Srce Balkansko” Sergej Ćetković, “Sjenke ljubavi” Unfortunately, none of these songs can be found on YouTube. But on 23 January, it was announced that Andrea Demirović was going to represent Montenegro with the song “Just Get Out Of My Life”. Sergej Ćetković Andrea Demirović Andrea Demirović is a Montenegrin singer. Born on June 17, 1985, in Podgorica, Montenegro (which was then part of the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia), Andrea embarked on a journey in music that has seen her become a household name in her home country and beyond. She is also known simply as Andrea. From a young age, Andrea demonstrated a passion for music, which led her to pursue formal education in the field. She became a student at the prestigious Cetinje Music Academy, where she focused on Music Pedagogy. Breakthrough Andrea’s big break came in 2002 at the Sunčane Skale festival, an annual music event that has been instrumental in launching the careers of many artists from the region. Her performance at the festival captured the attention of both the public and music professionals, setting the stage for a series of successful appearances at regional music festivals. Mirela In 2006, Andrea released her first album, aptly titled “Andrea,” under the renowned City Records label. In anticipation of her follow-up album, which was due for release in 2009, she introduced her fans to the single “The Queen of the Night.” This track was a cover of Mirela’s song from Misión Eurovisión 2007. Eurovision Andrea’s foray into the Eurovision Song Contest started with participations in the Serbo-Montenegrin and Montenegrin national finals. With the song “Just Get Out of My Life,” Andrea performed as the opening act in the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest on May 12, 2009. In 2015, Andrea participated in Odbrojavanje za Beč (Countdown to Vienna), the Serbian national final for the Eurovision Song Contest. She did not win the ticket to Eurovision that year. Despite this, she played a prominent role in the contest by announcing the Montenegrin votes. Recent music In 2021, Andrea released a duet with Bojan Jovović, “Proljeće”. One month ago, she released a brand new single: “Poquito”! Just Get Out Of My Life The song The song “Just Get Out Of My Life” is an uptempo pop number with elements of disco and funk. Its catchy rhythm and melody are designed to be instantly engaging. The English lyrics speak of a strong-willed individual who is taking a stand against a toxic relationship, conveying a message of empowerment and self-respect. The performance In the performance, Andrea Demirović’s vocal delivery showcased her range and ability to convey emotion. The staging aimed to complement the song’s dynamic energy. Despite a vibrant performance that opened the first semi-final, “Just Get Out of My Life” did not secure enough votes to progress to the grand final. Ralph Siegel The song was composed by Ralph Siegel, a German producer and songwriter who is a Eurovision veteran. He wrote numerous entries for the contest over the years, including several for Germany. One of them was 1982 winner “Ein bißchen Frieden” by Nicole. The lyrics were penned by Bernd Meinunger and José Juan Santana Rodriguez. The collaboration of such experienced songwriters on Montenegro’s entry highlighted the country’s serious commitment to making an impact at the contest.

🇳🇴 Blast from the Past: Norway 1980

photo: Nationaal Archief, Den Haag We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today: Mattis Hætta and Sverre Kjelsberg, representing Norway in 1980 with the song “Samiid Ædnan”. Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest Norway has had a long and varied history in the Eurovision Song Contest, which they first entered in 1960. Over the years, Norway has experienced both highs and lows in the competition.Norway has won the contest three times: 1985 – Bobbysocks: The duo, consisting of Hanne Krogh and Elisabeth Andreassen, won with the song “La det swinge” (Let it swing). This victory was a landmark moment for Norway, as it was their first win in the contest. 1995 – Secret Garden: An instrumental piece, “Nocturne”, with just 24 words sung by Norwegian violinist Rolf Løvland and Irish violinist Fionnuala Sherry, secured Norway’s second victory. 2009 – Alexander Rybak: The singer, violinist, composer, and actor won with a record-breaking 387 points for his song “Fairytale”. This score remained the highest in Eurovision history until the voting system was changed in 2016. Despite their victories, Norway is also known for having finished last a number of times, often with the infamous ‘nul points’. Some of these instances have become iconic in Eurovision history, showcasing the unpredictable nature of the contest. Melodi Grand Prix 1980 The national final, Melodi Grand Prix, was held on March 22nd at NRK Studio 2 in Oslo. Åse Kleveland, participant in 1966 and hosting Eurovision in 1986, was the host of the show. Note that she also traveled along with Mattis Hætta and Sverre Kjelsberg to The Hague to introduce the duo. Every country had their own host in the 1980 show. The songs were: “Stjerneskudd“, by Anita Skorgan, 48 pts, 6th “Ja“, by Jahn Teigen, 32 pts, 9th “Parken“, by Radka Toneff, 43 pts, 8th “Bjørnen sover“, by Åge Aleksandersen og Sambandet, 61 pts, 1st “Maestro“, by Hilde Heltberg, 32 pts, 9th “Auståvind“, by Hennig Sommerro, 45 pts, 7th “Univers“, by Alex, 58 pts, 3rd “Rudi“, by Nina Askeland, 58 pts, 3rd “Svart fortid“, by Inger Lise Rypdal, 57 pts, 5th “Samiid ædnan“, by Mattis Hætta and Sverre Kjelsberg, 61 pts, 1st As there was an ex aecquo between both the songs, all the juries had to give one vote for one of the winning songs. In that voting, “Bjørnen sover” received 4 points while “Samiid ædnan” got 5. Age Aleksandersen, the other winner Mattis Hætta and Sverre Kjelsberg Sverre Kjelsberg was a multifaceted Norwegian musician, born on October 18, 1946, in Tromsø, and passing away on June 18, 2016. He began his musical journey as a bassist and vocalist for the popular 1960s rock band, The Pussycats. Known for their Beatlesque style, the band enjoyed considerable success domestically. After the band’s dissolution, Kjelsberg’s musical style evolved, incorporating elements of pop, rock, and folk. Sverre Kjelsberg is perhaps best remembered on the international stage for representing Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1980, alongside Mattis Hætta, with the song “Sámiid Ædnan.” Mattis Hætta was a Sami singer and artist renowned for his contribution to the preservation and popularization of the traditional Sami form of singing, known as joik. Born on March 24, 1959, in Maze, Norway, Hætta was a prominent figure in the indigenous Sami community. His musical journey was intertwined with his cultural identity, and he has used his artistry to advocate for the rights and recognition of the Sami people. Mattis Hætta has continued to advocate for indigenous rights and remains a celebrated figure in Norway for his cultural contributions and activism. He passed away on November 9, 2022. Who are the Sami? The Sami are an indigenous people inhabiting the Arctic region known as Sápmi, which spans across the northern parts of Norway, Sweden, Finland, and the Kola Peninsula of Russia. Numbering approximately 80,000 to 100,000, the Sami have a rich cultural heritage deeply intertwined with the natural landscapes they inhabit. Traditionally, the Sami have engaged in diverse livelihoods, including fishing, fur trapping, and sheep herding. However, reindeer herding is perhaps the most emblematic aspect of Sami culture, with specific communities having developed semi-nomadic lifestyles centered around reindeer migrations. The Sami have their own distinct languages, which belong to the Uralic linguistic family. While there are multiple Sami languages, many Sami people also speak the languages of the countries they reside in. Sami traditional clothing, known as “gákti,” is vibrant and distinctive, often adorned with colorful bands of decoration and intricate beadwork. The designs and colors can indicate a person’s geographical origin, marital status, and other personal details. Despite facing historical oppression and forced assimilation policies, the Sami have persevered in maintaining and revitalizing their cultural heritage. Today, they continue to advocate for their rights, including land rights, cultural preservation, and political representation within the Nordic countries and Russia. Apart from Mattis Hætta and Sverre Kjelsberg, also Keiino brought the audience something of the Sami culture. Sami rapper Fred Buljo brought us the sound of the joik too! Samiid Ædnan “Sámiid Ædnan” is a significant and memorable song that represented Norway in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1980. Sung by Sverre Kjelsberg and Mattis Hætta, the song is a powerful melding of pop music elements with the traditional Sami form of singing known as joik. The title “Sámiid Ædnan” translates to “Sami Earth” and the song’s lyrics are a call for recognition of the indigenous Sami people and their rights. The song is performed in both Norwegian and Sami languages and emphasizes the unity and connection of the Sami people with their land. What made the performance standout in the Eurovision contest was Mattis Hætta’s joiking and the duo’s choice to wear traditional Sami clothing. This was an act of cultural pride and a political statement about indigenous rights. The song was written as a protest against the construction of a dam in the area where the Sami live. So,

🇷🇴 Blast from the Past: Romania 2006

We know a lot about Eurovision and we want to share this knowledge with you! Therefore we’d like to bring you a blast from the past. Today: Mihai Trăistariu, who represented Romania in the 2006 contest with “Tornero”. Romania in the Eurovision Song Contest Romania made its debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1994. The country has mostly participated every year, missing out only a few times. One notable absence was in 2016, when the country was disqualified due to unpaid debts to the European Broadcasting Union.Romania has achieved several respectable placements throughout the years, but, so far, the country hasn’t won the contest. Romania’s best results were third place, achieved in 2005 with the song “Let Me Try” by Luminița Anghel & Sistem and in 2010 with the song “Playing with Fire” by Paula Seling & Ovi. Romania is known for bringing a variety of music genres to the contest, from pop and rock to folk and traditional. Some entries, like “Zaleilah” by Mandinga in 2012, featured a mix of Romanian folk sounds with modern beats, giving it a distinct flavor.This year, unfortunately, Romania was facing their worst score ever, getting no points at all in the semifinal for “D.G.T. (Off and on)” by Theodor Andrei. Luminița Anghel Selecția Națională 2006 The Romanian national final always has the name Selecția Națională, also in 2006. Two semifinals and a final took place, three days in a row. The final, containing twelve songs, was held on February 26th. “Hey a hey”, Gina Pop Band, 4 pts, 10th “Se tu vuoi”, Linda, 10 pts, 6th “It’s our world”, Maria Radu & Mike Peterson, 5 pts, 8th “Sunshine”, Jasmine, 5 pts, 8th “Jokero”, Akcent & Nico, 20 pts, 2nd “Brand new feeling”, Dora, 13 pts, 3rd “Sagapo”, MiDo, 3 pts, 12th “Tornero”, Mihai Trăistariu, 22 pts, 1st “Be my boyfriend”, Indiggo, 6 pts, 7th “I believe in my star”, Laurențiu Cazan, 12 pts, 4th “Gândești prea high”, Delia, 4 pts, 10th “The universe”, Tony Poptămaș and Desperado, 12 pts, 4th Note that not only “Tornero” was a success. “Jokero” by Akcent and Nico also became an international hit. Aksent – Jokero Mihai Trăistariu Born on December 16, 1979, in Piatra Neamț, Romania, Mihai displayed an early passion for music. He began his music education at the Carmen Sylva Art School in Piatra Neamț and later graduated from the Bucharest Academy of Music. Mihai’s breakthrough came with his participation in various music festivals. In 1999 Mihai joined the group Valahia. They took part in the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2000 with the song “Why” and reached a 2nd place. Also in 2002 (“Mother”, 4rd), and in 2004 (“Friends are friends”, 3rd). In 2005 he also took part, now in duet with Nico, “All the time”. It was the same year that Mihai’s debut album was released. But his rise to international fame was cemented with his Eurovision entry. In 2006, he performed the song “Tornero,” a catchy pop track infused with operatic elements. The song finished in 4th place, one of Romania’s highest rankings in the contest, and subsequently became a hit across Europe.In total, Mihai released four albums. Also, he took part in Selecția Națională numerous times. His most successful participation, apart from “Tornero”, was “I won’t surrender” in 2017, which reached a 2nd place. In 2019 Mihai withdrew, because he did not agree with Romanian television on the way the contest was organized. He had taken part in a show on another tv-station (Your Face Sounds Familiar) and stated “I do not trust the objectivity of the Eurovision Romania organisers, regarding the unclear situation about the competitors — those who qualified through the pre-selection and those who were later favoured — I decided to withdraw.”Nowadays, Mihai Trăistariu has another career….. he is, as far as we know, the only Eurovision participant with an OnlyFans page. Tornero The song stood out due to Mihai’s powerful vocal range and its infectious pop-opera blend. At the contest, held in Athens, Greece, “Tornero” managed to achieve 4th place with 172 points. This ranking is one of the highest Romania has achieved in the contest. The track is a pop song with operatic elements, and its title, “Tornero,” is an Italian word meaning “I will return.” The song is about a man who promises his love that he will return to her. “Tornero” was well-received, not just within the Eurovision community, but also among general music enthusiasts. After the contest, it charted in several European countries and became a notable hit.