Bands

3JS

About Quick Facts MembersJan DullesJaap KwakmanJan de Witte Founded2002 Nationality🇳🇱 Dutch National SelectionNationaal Songfestival 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongNever Alone (2011) Biography Formed in 2002 in Volendam, Netherlands, 3JS is a Dutch band known for its melodious fusion of pop and rock with Dutch lyrics. The band originally consisted of Jan Dulles (vocals), Jaap Kwakman (guitar), and Jaap de Witte (guitar). The name ‘3JS’ was derived from the first initials of the three founding members. The journey of 3JS began in the bustling music scene of Volendam, a town with a rich musical heritage. Initially, they gained recognition for their live performances in local venues, where their combination of poetic lyrics and melodious music won them a dedicated following. Their music, deeply rooted in Dutch culture and language, resonated with a wide audience, contributing to their growing popularity. In 2007, the band signed a record deal with Warner Music Benelux, marking the beginning of their professional recording career. Their debut album, “Watermensen,” was released in the same year and received critical acclaim. The album’s honest and heartfelt lyrics, combined with the band’s distinct sound, established 3JS as a significant act in the Dutch music industry. Following their successful debut, 3JS continued to release a series of albums that cemented their status in the Dutch music scene. Albums like “Kamers van m’n Hart” (2008) and “Dromers en Dwazen” (2010) showcased the band’s versatility and ability to evolve their sound while staying true to their roots. A significant milestone in their career was representing the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2011 with the song “Je Vecht Nooit Alleen.” Although they did not win, their participation brought them international exposure and showcased their talent on a larger stage. The band underwent a significant change in 2013 when Jaap de Witte had to step down due to health issues. He was replaced by his son, Jan de Witte, marking a new chapter in the band’s history. This transition was seamless, and the band continued to produce music and perform with the same passion and energy. 3JS experimented with an acoustic sound for their album “7.” Preparations included a creative trip to Los Angeles, resulting in several new songs and significant musical inspiration. Most of the album was recorded in Volendam at Studio Arnold Mühren, featuring a live setting with producer Attie Bauw. Notable singles from “7” include “Grenzeloos,” “Samen door,” and “Pas dan laat ik je gaan.” The 2018 album “NU” marked a shift in sound and production, realized in collaboration with producer Oscar Holleman. The band embraced external influences, evidenced by the collaboration with Diggy Dex on the opening track “Misschien niet nu.” “NU” also featured the poignant “De betere jaren,” reflecting on Jan Dulles’ father’s battle with Alzheimer’s. This album was the last to feature Jan de Witte before his departure for a solo project. “De Aard Van Het Beest,” released in 2020, introduced the influence of new band member Robin Küller. The album, presenting an Americana sound, was uniquely launched via a live stream due to the pandemic. It included hits like “Dansen tot het over is” and “Het kind in mij,” and a collaboration on “De brug” with co-founder Jaap de Witte. 2021 saw a deluxe edition of the album, featuring new compositions like “Vreemde leegte,” a tribute to Dulles’ late daughter Donna-Maria. In 2023, 3JS fulfilled a dream with “Mooie Tijden,” recording in an American studio with local musicians and producer Bob Clearmountain. The album, enriched with Americana influences, featured session musicians like Sean Hurley and Victor Indrizzo, encapsulating the band’s evolving musical journey. Entries Never Alone Country🇳🇱 The Netherlands Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsJaap KwakmanJan DullesJaap de Witte MusicJaap KwakmanJan DullesJaap de Witte BackingsBrian ZalmijnLesley van der AaMichèle van der Aa Results Semi Points: 13Position: 19Running order: 3 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/m5uiD4BIcNk?si=lm2sTxfX1rDmMoZJ

Homens da luta

About Quick Facts MembersVasco DuarteNuno ‘Jel’ DuarteCelina da PiedadeTânia LopesRui RechenaHugo Osga Active2010 – 2013 Nationality🇵🇹 Portuguese National SelectionFestival RTP da Canção 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongA luta é alegria (2011) Biography Homens da Luta, a dynamic duo comprising brothers Vasco Duarte (Falâncio) and Nuno Duarte “Jel” (Neto), is a well-known Portuguese group blending improvisational comedy with musical street performances. Their creative works humorously mimic songs from the era following the 1974 Carnation Revolution. They skillfully craft their characters as exaggerated versions of revolutionary singers from that period, including Zeca Afonso and José Mário Branco. The term “struggle” frequently surfaces in their performances, echoing slogans popularized during the revolutionary times, such as “A Luta Continua” (The Struggle Goes On). In 2010, they released an mp3 album titled “A Canção é uma arma” (The song is a weapon), which features 14 tracks. Among these, “E o povo, pá?” (What about the people, man?) stands out as one of their most celebrated songs. Regarding the Eurovision Song Contest, Homens da Luta first participated in the RTP Song Festival 2010 with their song “Luta assim não dá” (The struggle can’t go on like this), but were disqualified for previously performing it, violating contest rules. They made a comeback in 2011 with “A luta é alegria” (The struggle is joy), a song penned by Nuno Duarte “Jel” and composed by Vasco Duarte. Initially in sixth place, public voting surged them to first place, earning them a spot in Düsseldorf. Representing Portugal at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 in Germany, they did not secure enough international votes to advance to the final. Notably, as the group primarily consists of comedians rather than traditional singers, and given their win was more a result of public favor than jury selection, their victory stirred some controversy within the contest community. Homens da Luta kept on performing and making protest songs in 2011 and 2012. After that, the group returned to a duo again. Mid 2013 the men went their own way. Entries Luta è alegria Country🇵🇹 Portugal Year2011 LanguagePortuguese LyricsNuno ‘Jel’ Duarte MusicVasco Duarte Backings– Results Semi Points: 22Position: 18Running order: 16 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/KIzdiAYd9IA?si=ezOx9OSmLpM4XdGJ

Highway

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts MembersPetar TošićMarko PešićLuka VojdovićBojan Jovović Founded2015 Nationality🇲🇪 Montenegrin National SelectionInternal selection 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongThe Real Thing (2016) Biography Highway is a Montenegrin band. They were founded in 2013 by Petar Tošić, Marko Pešić and Luka Vojdović. They enjoyed listening to pop, rock, blues and jazz, and their Idol was Ed Sheeran. The band rose to fame when they participated in the 2nd season of X Factor Adria and ended in 4th place. Their audition song in The X Factor, “Bar na kratko”, also became their first hit. They participated in another contest, Sunčane Skale, with that song. They reached the 3rd place in the newcomer section of the contest. In October 2015, it was announced that they would represent Montenegro in the 2016 Eurovision Song Contest. On 23 November they presented their first song, “Sam”. A month later, Bojan Jovović, former member of No Name, joined the group. The song they brought in Eurovision, entitled “The real thing”, was presented in March 2016. At the Eurovision Song Contest itself, the band unfortunately didn’t manage to reach the final. The follow up of the Eurovision song, “Lud”, was released in October of 2016. On July 28, 2017, their video of the song “Što dalje” was published. In 2018, the band signed with Croatia Records. Their first successes were “Navika” and “Salt Lake City”. In 2019, they performed at the Miss Montenegro ceremony. In 2020, the journal CDM declared that the music video for the song “Navika” is one of the most beautiful Montenegrin music videos. In 2021, they were nominated at the Adria Muzzik Video Awards 2020 in the category of Best Rock Music Video for the song “Svijetlija Strana Ulice”. They lost to the music video for the song “Ti Si Taj” by the Serbian band Goblini. Also in 2021, they released their first album, “Skica Za Portret,” which includes 10 tracks, including 2 unreleased songs. Entries The Real Thing Country🇲🇪 Montenegro Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsSrđan Sekulović Skansi MusicSrđan Sekulović SkansiMaro MarketLuka Vojvodić BackingsNikola MarjanovićMarija Lazić Results Semi Points: 60Position: 13Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/FgKehisElQI

Yüksek Sadakat

About Quick Facts NameKenan VuralSerkan ÖzgenKutlu ÖzmakinacıUğur OnatkutAlpay Şalt Founded1997 Nationality🇹🇷 Turkish National SelectionInternal selection 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongLive It Up (2011) Biography Yüksek Sadakat, founded in 2004, is a Turkish rock band initially formed by bass guitarist Kutlu Özmakinacı in Istanbul in 1997. Kutlu Özmakinacı, born in 1966 in İzmir, started his law education at Istanbul University in the 1980s. During his university years, he began playing the electric guitar and started his first musical endeavors with amateur university bands. After graduating, Özmakinacı played in various bars in Istanbul from 1986 to 1988. In 1988, he took a break from music to start a career in journalism with Sokak magazine in 1989. During his journalism career, Özmakinacı met members of the disbanded Turkish rock band Aqua. In 1991, he restarted his music career with these members, marking his first significant foray into the music industry. In 1997, after leaving Aqua members in 1995 and spending two years searching for a new group, Özmakinacı formed the band Filinta. This band is considered an early version of Yüksek Sadakat. However, the songs from this period are largely inaccessible, with some later released under Yüksek Sadakat. Following the disbandment of Filinta, Özmakinacı continued his pursuit of music. He began songwriting with Mutlu Çağlayan and reconnected with former Filinta members Uğur Onakut and Deniz Alemdar in 2003. Serkan Özgen, a veteran of the 1990s band Bulutsuzluk Özlemi, joined the group in 2003. In 2004, Özmakinacı officially formed Yüksek Sadakat. The band’s name translates to “High Fidelity.” The band’s debut album, “Yüksek Sadakat,” was released in January 2005. It featured Sufi-inspired lyrics and themes of love and spirituality. The band received significant attention for their music videos and won the 33rd Golden Butterfly Award for “Best Newcomer” alongside Grup Seksendört. After the success of their first album, the band faced member changes. Vocalist Cemil Demirbakan and drummer Deniz Alemdar left and were replaced by Kenan Vural and Alpay Şalt. Their second album, “Katil & Maktûl,” released in March 2008, continued to explore themes of love and Sufism. Yüksek Sadakat represented Turkey at the 2011 Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Live It Up.” They did not advance to the finals, marking a significant moment in the band’s history. The “Renk Körü” album, released during this period, marked a significant evolution in the band’s style, featuring themes and sounds distinct from their previous albums. More lineup changes occurred in 2013, with the departure of Kenan Vural and Alpay Şalt. They were replaced by Selçuk Sami Cingi and former drummer Deniz Alemdar. The album “IV” represented another evolution in their music style, with a distinctly different sound from their previous albums. The band planned a new album in 2020, delayed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The album “Rengarenk” was announced for release on September 24, 2021. Throughout their career, Yüksek Sadakat has been known for their frequent changes in vocalists and drummers, and their music has evolved significantly over the years, reflecting changes in lineup and artistic direction. Entries Live It Up Country🇹🇷 Turkey Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsErgün Arsal MusicKutlu Özmakinacı DancersLeilani Franco Results Semi Points: 47Position: 13Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/-6Ew5qYzo9k?si=oX4M2hpTXr6FhhlM

Eldrine

About Quick Facts MembersSopho ToroshelidzeTamar ShekiladzeMikheil ChelidzeIrakli BibilashviliDavid ChangoshviliBeso Tsikhelashvili Active2007-2017 Nationality🇬🇪 Georgian National SelectionGeorgian National Final 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongOne More Day (2011) Biography Eldrine, a dynamic band from Georgia, has made a significant mark in the music scene since its inception in 2007. Initially founded as ‘Bios’ by a trio of friends, the group underwent a transformation in 2010 with the introduction of vocalist Tamar Eldrine Wadachkoria. This period marked a new chapter for the band, leading to their participation in the Tibilisi-Altervision Festival in 2010, where they performed the song “Haunting.” The year 2011 proved to be a pivotal one for Eldrine, as they represented Georgia at the 56th Eurovision Song Contest in Düsseldorf. Their entry, “One More Day,” demonstrated their unique sound and energetic stage presence. Competing in the first semi-final on May 10, 2011, Eldrine successfully advanced to the final, held four days later. Their performance captivated the audience and judges alike, earning them a respectable ninth place. This achievement was a significant milestone for the band, showcasing their talent on an international platform. Eldrine’s album, “Fake Reality,” released in 2011, became a sensation in Georgia, maintaining a strong presence on the Georgian Album Charts for 52 weeks, peaking at third place. This album solidified their status in the Georgian music industry and resonated with a wide audience, showcasing their ability to blend various musical styles into a cohesive and engaging sound. However, the journey wasn’t without its challenges. Intense discussions about the vocal capabilities of Tamar Eldrine Wadachkoria led to a sudden and critical change. She was replaced by the classically trained singer Sophio Toroschelidse, a decision that marked a new direction for the band’s vocal dynamics. Despite this change, Eldrine continued to thrive and evolve, showcasing their adaptability and commitment to their art. Eldrine’s discography reflects their musical journey and evolution. Their albums include “Fake Reality” (2011) and “Till The End” (2014), while their singles feature “Haunting” (2010) and the Eurovision entry “One More Day” (2011). Each release encapsulates different facets of their musical identity, from haunting melodies to energetic anthems. Apart from their studio successes, Eldrine also made their presence felt through live performances. They performed at the European Union days in Georgia, in 2016, an event that celebrates the union’s culture and values. After 2017, it remained silent around the band. Entries One More Day Country🇬🇪 Country Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsDJ RockMicheil Chelidze MusicBeso Tsikhelashvili Backings– Results Semi Points: 74Position: 6Running order: 9 Results Finals Points: 110Position: 9Running order: 25 https://youtu.be/s2EwiTBiEDU?si=DmNWFeJrUzZ73Dw8

Nika Kocharov & Young Georgian Lolitaz

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameNika KocharovGiorgi MarrLevan ShanshiashviliDima Oganesian Founded2000 Nationality🇬🇪 Georgian National SelectionEvrovizia 2016 – Airchie Sheni Simgera! In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongMidnight gold (2016) Biography Nika Kocharov was born in Tbilisi, Georgia, in 1980. He began his musical career at the age of 15 when he formed his first band called Nadzvis Khe. Later, at 19, he started another band called Nebo CCCR, together with Kote Kalandadze. In 2001, he formed Young Georgian Lolitaz. In 2006, he relocated to London after signing with 4 Real Records. Throughout his career, he has composed music for three films and one television series, and he has also acted in three films. Nika Kocharov & Young Georgian Lolitaz is a Georgian music group known for their alternative rock and indie rock sound. They are a four-member band hailing from Tbilisi, Georgia, that was established in 2000. The founding members of the band were Nika Kocharov, Levan Shanshiashvili, Giorgi Gobejishvili on bass, and Guram Makalatia (also known as Goofy) on drums. The band’s name, Young Georgian Lolitaz, was chosen as a playful parody of various erotic websites. Interestingly, after its formation, the band went through frequent name changes, often altering their name almost every week. Giorgi Gobejishvili was soon replaced by David Svanidze as a member of the band. From 2000 to 2006, the band actively participated in various festivals, including “Mziuri” in Tbilisi, Georgia, which was an annual rock festival held from 2000 to 2005. The band frequently played gigs in Tbilisi. Their debut album, titled “Lemonjuice,” was released in 2004. The Young Georgian Lolitaz gained significant recognition with their song “Star,” which became the track of the year and amassed approximately 30,000 downloads on a popular unsigned MP3 artist website. In 2004, they also took part in the Aerials Rock music exchange project in Groningen, The Netherlands. The band signed a contract with the Georgian independent label Step Records in 2005, and in July of the same year, they released a CD named “Radio Live.” In 2006, Nika Kocharov made the decision to move to London in pursuit of launching his music career there. This led to some changes in the band’s lineup, with George Sikharulidze joining on bass and Ben Crook on drums. The band’s efforts in London resulted in a record deal with 4REAL Records in 2010, and they released an EP called “Lava” which was recorded in Rob Quickenden’s studio. However, shortly after the release, the band went on a hiatus. In early 2015, the band made a comeback, this time with a new and experienced drummer named Dima Oganesian. They resumed actively performing at various venues and festivals throughout Georgia. The band introduced new hits such as “Gay Swimmer” and “ID” to their repertoire. Additionally, they became regular guests on programming by the Georgian Public Broadcaster, further increasing their exposure. In 2016, the band was chosen to represent Georgia in the Eurovision Song Contest in Stockholm. Out of five songs, “Midnight gold” was chosen. The song reached the final and reached a 20th place there. In 2017, the band made a comeback with the release of a new single called ‘Dark Device’. In interviews, Kocharov has mentioned that his musical influences include iconic bands like The Beatles, Blur, and Pulp, while Marr’s inspiration comes from Oasis. Entries Song Title Country🇬🇪 Georgia Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsKote Kalandadze MusicKote KalandadzeThomas G:son BackingsLars Säfsund Results Semi Points: 123Position: 9Running order: 16 Results Finals Points: 104Position: 20Running order: 23 https://youtu.be/rviE2-9eiTI

Sjonni’s friends

About Quick Facts MembersGunnar ÓlasonVignir Snær VigfússonPálmi SigurhjartarsonMatthías MatthíassonHreimur Örn HeimissonBenedikt Brynleifsson Active2011 Nationality🇮🇸 Icelandic National SelectionSöngvakeppni Sjónvarpsins 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongComing Home (2011) Biography Sjonni’s friends was an Icelandic tribute band,also known at times as Sigurjón’s Friends. The band formed in early 2011 when the Icelandic singer Sjonni Brink (real name Sigurjón Brink) died just days before he was to perform his entry “Aftur heim” at Söngvakeppni Sjónvarpsins, the Icelandic national final for the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. Gunnar Ólason, an Icelandic singer/guitarist, rose to fame with his band “Skítamórall,” formed in 1989. Known for his early musical talent, he achieved his first paid music job at 12. With six albums, including a hit by Sjonni Brink, and gold platinum sales, Gunnar remains a household name in Iceland. He participated in the 2001 ESC with Two Tricky‘s “Angel” and pursues a Bachelor’s degree while recording acoustic soul and blues music. Known as a loner, Gunnar balances a big appetite with a shy demeanor. Vignir Snaer Vigfússon, a master guitarist, songwriter, and singer, is a prominent figure in Iceland’s music scene. He started playing guitar at nine and can play almost any instrument, with a particular passion for collecting guitars. A renowned producer, Vignir has created hits for many Icelandic artists, including Sjonni Brink. He’s also served as the musical director for shows like Icelandic Idol and X-factor, and played in musicals like Hair, Grease, and Footloose. Vignir has represented Iceland three times in the ESC, in various roles from guitarist to composer. He wrote the 2005 entry “If I had your love” for Selma. Pálmi Sigurhjartarson, celebrated for his piano skills, began his music career at eighteen in Reykjavik piano bars. His versatile career spans working with solo artists, big orchestras, and classical singers, and directing music for over 150 TV and radio shows. He’s also known for writing hit pop songs. Pálmi collaborated closely with Sjonni in theatre shows and bands like Rokk and the Flavors, and performed as a duo on various occasions. Pálmi was the musical director for the acclaimed Icelandic Theatre Group Vesturport, recognized with the European Theatre Prize. Their productions have toured globally, including a 2008 project at London’s Lyric Hammersmith Theatre, where Pálmi was both performer and musical director. Matthías Matthíasson, from Dalvík, Iceland, gained acclaim at 18 in “Hair” and was nominated as “best newcomer” for “Jesus Christ Superstar” (1995). Known for his powerful, high-ranged rock voice, he’s one of Iceland’s most technical singers, able to hit high notes effortlessly. He’s sung with top bands, earning gold and platinum albums, and was praised by Rolling Stone Magazine for his band Dúndurfréttir’s Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin covers. Collaborating with the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, he’s performed in significant concerts like “The Wall.” Matthías is also the voice of Sportacus in “Lazytown” and starred in “The Rocky Horror Picture Show” and “Hair.” A family man with three sons, he possesses a unique talent for speaking backwards. Hreimur Örn Heimisson, raised on an Icelandic pig farm, started the successful pop group Land & synir at 19 in 1997, topping charts with their debut single. They quickly became a popular band, releasing four albums and numerous hits. In 2001, Hreimur signed with Warner in New York, but their album was shelved due to 9/11. He continues a successful career in Iceland as a singer-songwriter, deeply impacting Icelandic music. Hreimur, known for his ever-present smile and green eyes, balances music with family life, soccer, and golf. His solo album was set for a 2012 release. Benedikt Brynleifsson, a prominent Icelandic drummer, has been playing professionally for 11 years with top artists and bands. Recently, he performed with Paul Oscar and the Icelandic Symphony Orchestra, with concerts at Reykjavík’s Harpa. He’s a member of the band Rokk, founded by Sigurjón Brink. This marks Benedikt’s second Eurovision appearance, previously performing in 2007. His diverse career includes TV performances, modeling, and appearances in commercials, notably playing in house bands for Icelandic Pop Idol and X-Factor. Benedikt has contributed to over 20 albums and numerous singles and is a sought-after session drummer. His rock band, 200.000 Naglbítar, is currently recording an album. Entries Coming Home Country🇮🇸 Iceland Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsÞórunn ClausenSjonni Brink MusicSjonni Brink Backings– Results Semi Points: 100Position: 4Running order: 14 Results Finals Points: 61Position: 20Running order: 21 https://youtu.be/MYVjXG19eVA?si=0g_HAd-MxdY70Rqh

Hotel FM

About Quick Facts MembersGabriel BăruţaAlex SzűzDavid BryanNewton Aycliff Active2005 – 2011 Nationality🇷🇴 Romanian (Gabriel, Alex)🇬🇧 British (David, Newton) National SelectionSelecţia Naţională 2011Selecţia Naţională 2010 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongChange (2011) Biography Hotel FM was a Romanian band, established in April 2005 by British expatriate David Bryan, Gabriel Băruţa, and Alex Szűz. Initially, they performed concerts across various cities in Romania and Germany, debuting a promotional CD in the spring of 2006. David Bryan, a founding member and the lead vocalist, hails from Newton Aycliffe in North East England. Before moving to Romania, he worked as a binman in his native town. The inception of Hotel FM dates back to 2005, sparked by Romanian composer Gabriel Băruţa. He gathered several musicians from Oradea, his hometown, to forge a new musical direction, focusing on a modern pop-rock genre that emphasized melody and innovation, hallmarks of Băruţa’s compositions. Over time, the band’s lineup featured Nicolae Vedinaş (vocals, flute), Berek Szilard (vocals), Marius Pop (guitar), Vlady Săteanu (bass), Gabi Drăgan (drums), and Sanyi Zakar (guitar). They continued to perform in Romania and Germany, celebrating the release of their promotional CD in 2006. In the realm of Eurovision, Hotel FM made a significant impact. They achieved 4th place in the Eurovision 2010 national selection final with the song “Come As One”. The lineup for this event included David Bryan (vocals), Gabriel Băruţa (guitar and backing vocals), Vicky Sava (backing vocals), Darius Neagu (drums, backing vocals), and dancers Mihuţ “Levi” Lennon and Diana Mărmăreanu. Their Eurovision journey continued in 2011 with the track “Change” (composed by Gabriel Băruţa, with lyrics by Alexandra Ivan and Băruţa). Winning the national final with 22 points, they earned the privilege to represent Romania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. They progressed from the second semifinal on May 12th and participated in the final on May 14th, securing the 17th position. Around the Eurovision participation, Hotel FM released several songs, like “The gathering”, “Living it up tonight” and “The letter”, but after that, it remained silent around the band. Gabriel Băruţa wrote and produced several songs for Romanian national selections: “Feel the same” for his band Mosquito in 2013 and “Hearts collide” for Anca Florescu. Băruţa is active as a producer at Mosquito Productions and plays in a band called Mustang. Entries Change Country🇷🇴 Romania Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsGabriel BăruţaAlexandra Ivan MusicGabriel Băruţa DancersRoxana UrecheAlexandra Elena Gerache Results Semi Points: 111Position: 4Running order: 14 Results Finals Points: 77Position: 17Running order: 17 https://youtu.be/k2Q-tkBXEzA?si=RBhGHdkgMO9WrVq9

Blue

About Quick Facts MembersAntony CostaDuncan JamesLee RyanSimon Webbe Founded2000 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal selection 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongI Can (2011) Biography Blue is a British all guy band. In the late 1990s, Antony Costa, Duncan James, Lee Ryan, and Simon Webbe crossed paths in the British music scene. Bonding over their shared passion for music, they decided to form a band. Blue was born, and the four members embarked on a journey that would change their lives forever. Blue’s breakthrough came in 2001 with the release of their debut single, “All Rise,” which quickly climbed the UK charts and established the group as a new force in the pop world. Their debut album, also titled “All Rise,” followed later that year. Following the success of their debut album, Blue continued to make waves in the music industry with their subsequent albums “One Love” (2002) and “Guilty” (2003). Their growing popularity led to collaborations with prominent artists such as Elton John and Stevie Wonder, as well as sold-out tours and numerous awards. Blue’s appeal extended beyond the UK, with the group gaining a loyal fan base in countries across Europe, Asia, and Australia. Despite their success, the members of Blue faced personal and professional challenges that led to the group’s decision to take a hiatus in 2005. Each member pursued solo projects, exploring different musical styles and personal interests. In 2011, Blue regrouped to represent the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest with their song “I Can.” Although they did not win, their participation marked the beginning of a new chapter for the band. They went on to release new music, including the album “Roulette” in 2013. In 2015, they released “Colours,” an album featuring a mix of new songs and classic soul covers. This album marked a departure from their usual style and was aimed at a more mature audience. It received a lukewarm reception and modest sales. On 30 November 2021, Blue announced an arena tour to celebrate their 20th anniversary, with Atomic Kitten supporting them. During an interview on “This Morning,” they revealed they were recording a new album, hinting at new music to accompany the tour. On 11 April 2022, the group announced their sixth studio album, “Heart & Soul,” initially set for release on 9 September 2022. The album’s release date was later pushed back to 28 October 2022. They unveiled the track listing on social media and released the first single, “Haven’t Found You Yet.” Another single, “Dance with Me,” a cover of the 2001 112 single, was released on 29 June 2022. In November 2022, Blue performed at a fan festival in Qatar for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, a decision that attracted criticism due to Qatar’s human rights issues and strict anti-LGBT laws. Entries I Can Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsCiaron BellBen CollierIan HopeDuncan JamesLiam KeenanLee RyanStarSign MusicCiaron BellBen CollierIan HopeDuncan JamesLiam KeenanLee RyanStarSign BackingsDaniel ThomasBryan Chambers Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 100Position: 11Running order: 14 https://youtu.be/9mUKrCGshog?si=uLr7H2IZE1l7W35_

A friend in London

About Quick Facts MembersTim SchouSebastian Vinther OlsenAske Damm BrammingEsben Svane Active2005 – 2014 Nationality🇩🇰 Danish National SelectionDansk Melodi Grand Prix 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongA New Tomorrow (2011) Biography A Friend in London, often abbreviated as AFIL, was a Danish pop rock and alternative rock band that gained international recognition after representing Denmark in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. Originating from Vostrup, Denmark, the band was active from 2005 to 2014. The band’s journey began in 2005 when the members met at a boarding school in Vostrup. Tim Schou, the lead singer, had won the Danish Young Talent 2005 contest, leading to the recording of their first single, “Thoughts of a Boheme”. The band quickly gained traction, with their single “Shoot Me” receiving airplay on Danish national radio and their track “Dead Beat” being used in a TV-commercial contest. They toured Denmark extensively, playing over 100 gigs, and their break came in 2008 with the Bodog Million Dollar Battle of the Bands, where they won the European leg. A Friend in London’s international presence grew with tours in Canada and the United States, where they became particularly popular in Canada, embarking on three successful tours, the last in 2011. They also signed a management agreement with a Canadian music group. The band’s most significant achievement came in 2011 when they won the Dansk Melodi Grand Prix with their song “New Tomorrow”. This victory led them to represent Denmark in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 in Düsseldorf, Germany. Despite controversies, including allegations of plagiarism and a controversial statement by lead singer Tim Schou during the contest, the band finished fifth. After Eurovision, A Friend in London released their debut album “Unite” on January 21, 2013, featuring collaborations with notable artists like Howie D. from the Backstreet Boys and Canadian singer Carly Rae Jepsen. The album included pre-released tracks “New Tomorrow”, “Calling a Friend”, and “Get Rich in Vegas”. However, in 2013, the band underwent a significant change with three original members leaving. Tim Schou continued with new members for a short period before announcing the band’s dissolution in 2014. The band’s influence extended beyond music. Tim Schou appeared on Danish television in various roles, mentoring young artists and participating in reality shows. Their single “New Tomorrow” was also used in a spaceflight documentary, showcasing their impact on popular culture. Entries A New Tomorrow Country🇩🇰 Denmark Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsLise CabbleJakob Glæsner MusicLise CabbleJakob Glæsner BackingsLone Strandbjerg BaltzerTim Daniel McEwan Results Semi Points: 135Position: 2Running order: 18 Results Finals Points: 134Position: 5Running order: 3 https://youtu.be/9DcYb8kt4mc?si=CP4TUHxDZvGZYRSN