Malmö Messages: A draw among the Big 5 and Sweden

Malmö Messages:the Big 5 and Sweden

The big five and Sweden had their second rehearsal today. However, there is more happening: the draw also took place to decide in which part of the show the participants will perform. There is a change happening: half of the countries will draw a ‘producers choice‘. They can be placed anywhere.

United Kingdom

He might have called it the most homosexual act ever. Olly Alexander has four dancers around him, who seem to be dancing around each other somewhat combatively. The men have bare torsos, except for Olly’s torn shirt. Whether it is indeed the most homosexual act ever or not? No idea, but not much is left to the imagination. He seems to be rising in the bookmakers’ ratings, where he is now in tenth place. Olly Alexander drew the first half of the final.

EBU/Corinne Cumming

Germany

Little has changed since last time for Germany. The act was already so well-defined that there is little left to change. The singing is important in the German entry. But whether Isaak makes enough of an impression to break Germany’s negative streak remains to be seen. The bookmakers give him a 23rd place. Isaak drew in the first half of the final.

EBU/Alma Bengtsson

Sweden

The Swedes are number three in line to create a full music video of their performance. It is exactly the same performance as during Melodifestivalen. We see Marcus and Martinus everywhere and nowhere. This afternoon in the press center, someone enthusiastically told of having done five interviews with them. We already knew that Sweden will open the final.

EBU/Alma Bengtsson

France

Less is more, the French must have thought. Slimane stands alone on the stage in white clothing while singing his “Mon amour”. He stands, sits, and lies down while singing. The a cappella part makes a deep impression. The bookmakers currently predict just shy of a top-5 spot, placing him sixth. France will perform in the second half of the final.

EBU/Alma Bengtsson

Spain

With a lot of gold in the background, a red sofa, and the two members of Nebulossa in black clothing, the act is complete. The lyrics of “Zorra” caused a lot of controversy, but the Spanish audience enthusiastically roars along with the song. The bookmakers have no faith in it. They rank the song in 24th place. Nebulossa drew producers’ choice this afternoon.

EBU/Alma Bengtsson

Italy

Fortunately, not everything remains exactly the same as during the previous rehearsal. Angelina Mango has a different dress: a black one, with much fewer flowers on it. That makes the overall busy impression during the performance a bit less intense. “La Noia” is currently fourth with the bookmakers. Angelina Mango drew producers’ choice.

EBU/Alma Bengtsson

As mentioned, except for Italy, there are few changes. The big five and Sweden will be heard and seen for the first time during the semifinals, so there are equal opportunities for everyone. We think: abolish the big five if they really want equal chances. But then, who are we…

Related news

Eurovision 2026

Road to Vienna: Albania

Road to Vienna: Albania As the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna approaches, we continue our daily spotlight on this year’s contestants. Road to Vienna: Albania Alis Kallaçi: Rising Albanian Pop Star Alis Kallaçi was born in Shkodër, Albania, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. He trained in piano as a teenager, won several competitions, and later learned guitar. These early achievements shaped his versatile sound and strong musical foundation. Breakthrough on X-Factor Albania His big breakthrough came in 2024 when he won X Factor Albania Season 5. Mentored by Arilena Ara, he impressed audiences with his vocal ability and stage presence, gaining national recognition at just 21. Early Music and Growing Success Following his win, Alis released his debut single “Se të dua” with Arilena Ara, which charted in Albania. In 2025, he continued building his career with pop and R&B tracks like “S’ta kam than,” proving his versatility and appeal to younger audiences. Festivali i Këngës Journey Alis debuted at Festivali i Këngës in 2024 with “Mjegull,” finishing third. This strong result boosted his reputation and expanded his fanbase beyond mainstream pop. Winning Festivali i Këngës 2025 & Eurovision 2026 In 2025, he returned to win Festivali i Këngës with “Nân,” securing his place as one of Albania’s top artists. This victory earned him the opportunity to represent Albania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking a major milestone in his rapidly rising career. A Star on the Rise With strong vocals, emotional performances, and growing international attention, Alis Kallaçi is quickly becoming a key name in the Albanian and European music scene. Nân: A Powerful Story of Motherhood and Letting Go Nân is a deeply emotional song that explores motherhood, separation, and unconditional love. Told from a mother’s perspective, it captures the pain and pride of watching children leave home to build their future. From Warmth to Silence: A Story Through Atmosphere The song paints a vivid picture of a once lively home धीरे turning quiet and empty. Through subtle details and fading sounds, it highlights the passage of time and the emotional weight of absence, creating a strong sense of nostalgia. Honest Emotions and Universal Themes What makes “Nân” stand out is its emotional honesty. There is no bitterness—only love, patience, and quiet strength. It reflects the universal experience of parents learning to let go, while holding on to memories. A Song That Connects With Everyone With themes of family, sacrifice, and human connection, “Nân” resonates across generations. Its storytelling quality makes it ideal for musical theatre and emotional performances, reaching listeners on a deeply personal level. Albania in the Eurovision Song Contest Since debuting in 2004, Albania has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 21 times. The country’s best result came in 2012 when Rona Nishliu‘s “Suus” achieved fifth place in the Grand Final. Over the years, Albania has showcased a variety of musical styles and continues to be recognized for its passionate performances and distinctive entries. ​Often, their entries reach the final of the contest. The Bookmakers Albania may sit 26th for now, but the real story will begin when rehearsals start.

Read More »
Eurovision 2026
Anja Kroeze

Road to Vienna: Albania

Road to Vienna: Albania As the Eurovision Song Contest 2026 in Vienna approaches, we continue our daily spotlight on this year’s contestants. Road to Vienna: Albania Alis Kallaçi: Rising Albanian Pop Star Alis Kallaçi was born in Shkodër, Albania, where he developed a passion for music at a young age. He trained in piano as a teenager, won several competitions, and later learned guitar. These early achievements shaped his versatile sound and strong musical foundation. Breakthrough on X-Factor Albania His big breakthrough came in 2024 when he won X Factor Albania Season 5. Mentored by Arilena Ara, he impressed audiences with his vocal ability and stage presence, gaining national recognition at just 21. Early Music and Growing Success Following his win, Alis released his debut single “Se të dua” with Arilena Ara, which charted in Albania. In 2025, he continued building his career with pop and R&B tracks like “S’ta kam than,” proving his versatility and appeal to younger audiences. Festivali i Këngës Journey Alis debuted at Festivali i Këngës in 2024 with “Mjegull,” finishing third. This strong result boosted his reputation and expanded his fanbase beyond mainstream pop. Winning Festivali i Këngës 2025 & Eurovision 2026 In 2025, he returned to win Festivali i Këngës with “Nân,” securing his place as one of Albania’s top artists. This victory earned him the opportunity to represent Albania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, marking a major milestone in his rapidly rising career. A Star on the Rise With strong vocals, emotional performances, and growing international attention, Alis Kallaçi is quickly becoming a key name in the Albanian and European music scene. Nân: A Powerful Story of Motherhood and Letting Go Nân is a deeply emotional song that explores motherhood, separation, and unconditional love. Told from a mother’s perspective, it captures the pain and pride of watching children leave home to build their future. From Warmth to Silence: A Story Through Atmosphere The song paints a vivid picture of a once lively home धीरे turning quiet and empty. Through subtle details and fading sounds, it highlights the passage of time and the emotional weight of absence, creating a strong sense of nostalgia. Honest Emotions and Universal Themes What makes “Nân” stand out is its emotional honesty. There is no bitterness—only love, patience, and quiet strength. It reflects the universal experience of parents learning to let go, while holding on to memories. A Song That Connects With Everyone With themes of family, sacrifice, and human connection, “Nân” resonates across generations. Its storytelling quality makes it ideal for musical theatre and emotional performances, reaching listeners on a deeply personal level. Albania in the Eurovision Song Contest Since debuting in 2004, Albania has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest 21 times. The country’s best result came in 2012 when Rona Nishliu‘s “Suus” achieved fifth place in the Grand Final. Over the years, Albania has showcased a variety of musical styles and continues to be recognized for its passionate performances and distinctive entries. ​Often, their entries reach the final of the contest. The Bookmakers Albania may sit 26th for now, but the real story will begin when rehearsals start.

Read More »
Follow Us: