Finland

Aksel

About Quick Facts NameAksel Kankaanranta Born28 January 1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2021Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2020 In Eurovision2020 Rotterdam (canceled) SongLooking back (2020, canceled) Biography Aksel Kankaanranta is a Finnish singer and musician. His interest in music started as a child playing the violin. However, Aksel realized his talent as a singer when playing bass on Zen Café was really beautiful.  In 2017, Aksel participated in the Voice of Finland because his mother and sister encouraged him to apply. The only purpose was to test how far the hoops were. Aksel ended up in second place.  In 2019 Aksel won an award at the Emma gala for most streamed song. In 2020, he was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Looking back”. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen due to the corona crisis. In the summer of 2020, Kankaanranta got a record deal with Etenee Records, owned by Warner Music.In  2021, he was one of the seven finalists in the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, Uuden Musiikin Kilpilailu 2021. with the song “Hurt.” The song finished fifth in the competition. Entries Looking back Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2020 LanguageEnglish LyricsJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough MusicJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough Backings– Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/EgONBKFQpxE

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Waldo’s People

About Quick Facts MembersWaldoKaroliina KallioCapri VirkkunenPäivi SeloSami Lehto (not on stage)Karl Sinkkonen (not on stage)Kimmo Nissinen (not on stage) Founded1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLose Control (2009) Biography Waldo’s People is a Finnish electronic dance music group that became famous in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group is led by a talented musician known as Waldo, whose real name is Marko Reijonen. Waldo’s People created energetic and catchy dance music that captured the hearts of many fans in Finland and beyond. The band’s journey began in the late 1990s when electronic dance music was becoming very popular. Waldo’s People quickly made a name for themselves with their unique sound. They released their first album, “Waldo’s People,” in 1998. This album featured the hit single “U Drive Me Crazy,” which became a big success, reaching number 3 on the Finnish charts and even charting in Sweden. The album itself also did well, reaching number 6 on the Finnish charts. The success of this album was a significant achievement and helped the band gain even more popularity. Following their successful debut, Waldo’s People continued to produce great music. They released their second album, “No Man’s Land,” in 2000. This album included popular tracks like “I Dream,” “Let’s Get Busy,” and “1000 Ways,” the latter reaching number 4 on the Finnish charts. The album itself again reached number 6 in Finland. Their music is known for its upbeat and danceable tunes. In the early 2000s, Waldo’s People continued to influence the Finnish electronic dance music scene. In 2001, they released singles like “Remedy” and “Disconnected,” keeping their presence in the music scene alive. However, after a few years of success, the band took a break and was not as active. In 2008, Waldo’s People made a big comeback. They released a new single called “Back Again” on May 19, 2008, which reached number 1 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was followed by a compilation album, “Back Again: The Greatest Hits,” which included many of their popular songs and reached number 27 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was exciting for their fans, who had missed their energetic music. The following year, in 2009, Waldo’s People achieved another milestone. They released their third album, “Paranoid,” which reached number 13 in Finland. They were also selected to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. They performed the song “Lose Control” in the semifinals on May 12, 2009, in Moscow. Band members Sami Lehto, Karl Sinkkonen and Kimmo Nissinen were not on stage at the event. The performance was a success, and the band made it to the finals with the help of the jury votes. In the finals, they performed second to last. Although they finished in last place with 22 points, it was one of the highest point totals ever for a song that placed last in the Eurovision finals. This was still a proud moment for the band and their fans. In 2010, they continued to release new music, with singles like “I Wanna Be a Rockstar,” which reached number 15 in Finland, and “Jackpot,” which reached number 19. They followed up with more singles such as “Echo” in 2011 and “You” in 2014, maintaining their presence in the music industry. In 2019 Waldo’s People teamed up with Movetron for the song “Nousee”, Oku Luukkainen featuring in the song.  Entries Lose Control Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2009 LanguageEnglish LyricsAri LehtonenKarimaWaldoAnnie Kratz-Gutå MusicAri LehtonenKarima DancersNiko VirtanenAnton Kasmir Jolma Results Semi Points: 42Position: 12 (saved by the jury)Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 22Position: 25Running order: 24 https://youtu.be/D-Wr0z1_quw?si=sMCMIV8c4Qpc65K9

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Kuunkuiskaajat

About Quick Facts MembersJohanna VirtanenSusan Aho Active2009-2016, 2023 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongTyölki ellää (2010) Biography Kuunkuiskaajat was a Finnish folk duo, composed by Johanna Hytti-Virtanen and Susan Aho of the Värttinä band. Susan Aho has been a member of the Värttinä band since 1997 and Johanna Hytti since 2001. Kuunkuiskaajat (The moon whisperers) were formed when the German-Finnish Society was looking for a band to perform on eleven occasions on a German tour, including a tango. Virtanen and Aho stated that they could do this and went on a tour. The combination worked, and Kuunkuiskaajat released their first record in August 2009. In 2010, they represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Työlki ellää”. Eurovision made the release of their first album delay  until December.  In 2016, Kuunkuiskajat released their second album “Revitty rakkaus”. As a result, the duo also performed on Midsummer 2016. In May 2023, Kuunkuiskaajat released their parody of Käärijä‘s song ‘Cha cha cha,’ calling it a ‘boomer version.’ Kuunkuiskaajat have cited Laila Kinnunen and the Harmony Sisters as their musical influences. Entries Työlki ellää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2010 LanguageFinnish LyricsTimo Kiiskinen MusicTimo Kiiskinen BackingsAki EronenJukka TarvainenMaria Baric (violin) Results Semi Points: 49Position: 11Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oicT3jWtsc4?si=F1oa64fNsrS89Kbw

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Softengine

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersTopi LatukkaOssi MäkeläEero KeskinenHenri OskárTuomo Alarinta Active2011 – 2017 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongSomething Better (2014) Biography Softengine is a Finnish alternative pop-rock band. The story of this band traces back to 2011, in the small city of Seinäjoki, where its foundation was laid in an unlikely setting – a cottage owned by the grandparents of Topi Latukka. Topi Latukka, a key figure in the band’s formation, brought together a group of like-minded musicians. This idyllic retreat became the birthplace of Softengine. After a few years of practice, writing, and performing locally, Softengine achieved a remarkable feat in 2014, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. Their performance on the grand stage marked an important milestone in the band’s journey, amplifying their name to international audiences.  The momentum continued into 2015 when Softengine released their debut album.  While the journey of Softengine has been a testament to their collective talent and shared passion, it has not been without change. Eero Keskinen and Henri Oskár, both instrumental in the band’s formative years and early success, left the band in 2016. In 2017, the band made a tour throughout Finland. In the same year, the band announced that they were in the studio to write material for a new album. However, no music was released by the band, and no performances took place anymore. Topi Latukka went for a solo career. Entries Something Better Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsNames MusicNames Backings– Results Semi Points: 97Position: 3Running order: 8 Results Finals Points: 72Position: 11Running order: 18 https://youtu.be/3FDWaFfo1CU

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Pernilla Karlsson

About Quick Facts NamePernilla Karlsson Born11 June 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2012 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongNär Jag Blundar (2012) Biography Pernilla Karlsson, born June 11, 1990, in Siuntio, is a Finland-Swedish artist.  Karlsson engaged in music from an early age, though not always at a professional level. She has been singing and dancing almost her entire life, and at the age of 15, she won a competition called The Smallest Schlager Competition in the World. Despite her musical successes, she continued to focus on her other passion, handball, playing in Finland’s top division with Siuntio IF. As a female handball player, Karlsson has highlighted issues of sexist comments in the sports world. On February 25, 2012, she won Finland’s national selection (The Contest for New Music). She performed in the first semi-final on May 22 but did not advance to the final. After representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012, she has worked in music, including collaborations with her brother Jonas. On the Finland-Swedish radio channel Yle X3M, she created the program Stiftelsen together with Frida Lindholm. They called themselves “Frillan” and “Prillan” and since August 2014, also produced the podcast Frillan & Prillan OFF AIR. Karlsson left the radio channel in June 2018. Entries När Jag Blundar Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2012 LanguageFinnish LyricsJonas Karlsson MusicJonas Karlsson BackingsHeikki Takkula (cello) Results Semi Points: 41Position: 12Running order: 9 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/MRC5NzxmrAA?si=Gjx9BkslIeoImg6S

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Sandhja

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSandhja Kuivalainen Born16 March 1991 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongSing It Away (2016) Biography Sandhja Kuivalainen, born on 16 March 1991, is a Finnish singer known professionally as Sandhja.  Sandhja’s mother is Indo-Guyanese, and her father is Finnish. In her career, Sandhja released her debut single “Hold Me” in November 2013, which was the lead single from her first studio album. She followed it up with the release of “Gold” as the second single in March 2014. Her debut studio album, titled “Gold,” was released in May 2014. In 2015, Sandhja collaborated with Brandon Bauer on the single “The Flavor.” She also released her own single, “My Bass,” in October 2015. In January 2016, she was announced as one of the participants in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016, a Finnish music competition. She advanced to the final after competing in the third semi-final. Ultimately, she won the competition, securing the victory through the jury vote and placing third in the public vote. As the winner, Sandhja represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. She performed her song in the first semi-final but did not qualify for the final held on 14 May 2016. Prior to Eurovision, she released her second studio album, “Freedom Venture,” on 29 April 2016. The first single from this album to be released after Eurovision was “Love me high”. In 2017, Sandhja teamed up with Gracias & Ekow to release the song “We go on”.  On 28 May 2021, the group Gankino Circus released a song, “Summer”, in which Sandhja’s spoken word featured. She also performed with the band Kissat. In 2023 she formed the duo Maisa with her mother-in-law. They perform mainly the most popular Finnish tunes of the 40s-70s. Entries Sing It Away Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus Savijoki MusicSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus SavijokiHeikki Korhonen BackingsHeini IkonenTuuli IkonenLinda IlvesReetta KorhonenJepa Lambert Results Semi Points: 51Position: 15Running order: 1 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oAQIPxgQkM8

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Paradise Oskar

About Quick Facts NameAxel Ehnström Born23 October 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongDa Da Dam (2011) Biography Axel Ehnström, born on October 23, 1990, in Kirkkonummi, Finland, is a Finnish songwriter and musician recognized for his contributions to the music industry both as a performer and a songwriter. He gained international recognition as Paradise Oskar, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 with his song “Da Da Dam,” which placed 21st in the finals and won the Marcel Bezençon Press Award. Ehnström’s career is marked by his work with several notable artists and his involvement in gold and platinum-certified albums. He has collaborated with artists like Phoebe Ryan, Lost Frequencies, Isac Elliot, Anna Abreu, Christopher, Alle Farben, RAF Camorra, Dennis Kruissen, Madeline Juno, and Kasmir. Since joining Elements Music as a songwriter in 2013, he has achieved significant milestones, including co-writing Sofi De La Torre’s song “Vermillion,” recognized by Billboard as one of the best songs of 2014. His most notable works include featuring on Lost Frequencies’ single “All Or Nothing,” co-writing Deepend’s “Woke up in Bangkok,” and the co-writing of Alle Farben’s hit song “Bad Ideas.” Ehnström’s songwriting prowess was highlighted in both the 2016 and 2017 Finnish music industry reports by Music Finland, where he was recognized for having more international songwriting cuts than any other Finnish songwriter. In 2018, he was awarded the music export award of the year by the Finnish Music Publishers association for his contributions to the German music market. In 2022, Axel collaborated with Jyra for a song called “City Lights”. In October 2023 he teamed up with Mingue on the song “Fucking Lonely”. Ehnström’s personal life reflects his Swedish-speaking minority heritage in Finland, and he resides in Evitskog, Kirkkonummi. He adopted his stage name from Astrid Lindgren’s children’s book “Rasmus and the Vagabond,” where Paradise Oskar is a vagabond who plays the accordion, a name symbolizing his storytelling approach in music. His debut album, “Sunday Songs,” was released via Warner Music Finland on May 2, 2011.   Entries Da Da Dam Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsAxel Ehnström MusicAxel Ehnström Backings– Results Semi Points: 103Position: 3Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: 57Position: 21Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/rQ98uBQxbBo?si=PKnoTE2PS_45h7An

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Krista Siegfrids

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts NameKrista Siegfrids Born04 December 1985 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionMelodifestivalen 2017Melodifestivalen 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2013 In Eurovision2013 Malmö SongMarry Me (2013) Biography Krista Siegfrids is a Finnish singer and television presenter, best known for her participation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest. Siegfrids was born on December 4, 1985, in Kaskinen, Finland, to a Finnish-speaking family. She is the youngest of three siblings. From a young age, she demonstrated a passion for performing and music. She graduated from the Novia University of Applied Sciences, majoring in Music and Performing. While studying, she was part of a number of music ensembles and performed in various musicals. Her first major exposure came in 2011 when she took part in the first season of The Voice of Finland. Although she did not win the competition, it boosted her profile and allowed her to work on her debut album. Siegfrids’ breakthrough moment arrived in 2013 when she represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Marry Me”. The song, which became famous for its catchy tune and the stage kiss at the end of the performance, gave Siegfrids a lot of international attention. Despite finishing in 24th place, the experience was pivotal in her career. Following her Eurovision participation, she released her debut album “Ding Dong!” in May 2013. The album included “Marry Me” and other pop tracks, some of which she co-wrote. In 2015, Siegfrids released a series of three singles: “Cinderella” in January, “On & Off” in February, and “Better On My Own” in August. She also took part in the second season of “Tähdet, tähdet” on MTV3 in the spring, where she secured the fifth position. In November 2015, Siegfrids was selected to co-host the Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (New Music Competition) 2016 alongside Roope Salminen. SVT, later that month, revealed that she would be a contestant in Melodifestivalen, the Swedish Eurovision selection, in 2016 with her song “Faller”. However, she ended in the fifth position in the semi-finals and failed to progress to the finals. She made another attempt to represent Sweden in the 2017 Eurovision with her song “Snurra min jord”, but again didn’t reach the finals. Siegfrids also served as the host for Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu in the years 2017 and 2018. Siegfrids joined the panel of judges for the sixth and seventh seasons of “Talent Suomi”, a talent hunt show on MTV3, sharing the panel with Jorma Uotinen, HP Parviainen, and Ernest Lawson. In 2021 and 2022, she hosted Krista Calling, a series of backstage broadcasts at the Eurovision Song Contest for OutTV. Furthermore, she was slated to participate in the 14th season of “Dancing with the Stars” in autumn 2021. She recorded a Christmas duet with former Eurovision host Mikko Leppilampi, “Valkea Joulu”. She performed at Amsterdam Calling, a pre Eurovision Party, in 2022, followed by the Spanish pre Eurovision Party. At the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, she made reports for OutTV together with GJ Kooijman. Entries Marry Me Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2013 LanguageEnglish LyricsKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström MusicKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström BackingsEmelie GranvikReetta Korhonen DancersHaza KajipooriKiira KilpiöKatrin Vaskelainen Results Semi Points: 64Position: 9Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: 13Position: 24Running order: 4 https://youtu.be/dlBXOveVh7c

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Saara Aalto

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSaara Sofia Aalto Born02 May 1987 Nationality???????? Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2004Euroviisut 2011Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2018 In Eurovision2018 Lisbon SongMonsters (2018) Biography Saara Aalto is a Finnish singer, songwriter and voice actor, born in oulunsalo. Saara wrote her first songs at the age of five and in 1998, at the age of 11, won the Kotkan Meri Song Contest. She represented Finland at the International Golden Deer Song Contest (Cerbul de Aur) in Romania in 2004. In the same year, she took part in Euroviisut, the Finnish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, as a member of the group Heidi Kyrö & Just. She graduated from Madetoja Music High School in 2005, after which he moved to Helsinki to study music education at the Sibelius Academy. In 2007, She made her first public appearance when she competed in the Talent Suomi competition, finishing in the top three. Aalto perofrmed in the musicals “High School Musical 1 & 2” and “Wicked”. In 2011, she took part in Euroviisut again, this time solo with the song “Blessed with Love”. In may 2011, her first album, also titled “Blessed with love”, was released. In November 2011, Aalto’s second album, “Enkeleita – Angels”, was released, which, in addition to traditional Finnish and foreign Christmas songs, also featured Aalto’s own compositions.In 2012, Aalto participated in The Voice of Finland. After the competition, Aalto continued touring and opened the Blessed with Love online store selling eco-jewelery. Aalto’s third album, “You Had My Heart”, was released in may 2013. The album was the first one to hit the charts. In the same month, Aalto performed in Shanghai with opera lecturer José Carreras. A month later, she performed at the closing gala of the Shanghai International Film Festival. Aalto’s first Chinese album, “Ai De Zhu Fu”, was released in Finland and China in September 2013. In November-December 2013, Saara had her first concert hall tour. She also appeared in Disney’s animated film “Frozen”, as the voice of princess Anna. Saara participated in the 2016 Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa (UMK), now the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the song “No Fear”. She became 2nd again. She also took part in The X Factor UK in 2016. Here, she also took the 2nd place. Newspaper Iltalehti chose her as the Finn of the year and she won the Finland Prize. The Finland Prize is a recognition of the Minister for Education and Culture for her outstanding artistic career. In 2017, Lidl launched an international advertising campaign in which Saara sang in the 20 languages ​​spoken in Lidl’s market areas. She was one of the four judges of X Factor Finland. In 2018, Saara Aalto was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Monsters”. A month before Eurovision she released a new album called “Wild wild wonderland”, followed by a concert tour. In november 2019 a new album called “Fairytale: Joulun taikaa” was released. The single “Koska et oo täällä enää” became a hit in Finland. Also an international version of the album, “Fairytale: international” was released. In the autumn of 2021, Aalto played the role of Scaramouche in the musical “We Will Rock You” in Helsinki. In December of the same year, she went on a christmas tour together with Teemu Roivanen. In June 2022, Saara released a charity single, “This world”, in aid of Save The Children. Entries Monsters Country???????? Finland Year2018 LanguageEnglish LyricsSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald MusicSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald BackingsTuuli IkonenHeli LyytikäinenTeemu RoivanenYves CueniKane Horn Results Semi Points: 108Position: 10Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 46Position: 25Running order: 17 https://youtu.be/hdjiuCUUpPc

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Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersPertti KurikkaKari AaltoSami HelleToni Välitalo Active2009-2016 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2015 In Eurovision2015 Vienna SongAina Mun Pitää (2015) Biography Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (also known as PKN) was a Finnish punk band that operated from 2009 to 2016. The band consisted of Pertti Kurikka (guitar, compositions, lyrics), Kari Aalto (vocals, lyrics), Sami Helle (bass), and Toni Välitalo (drums). The band was managed and their music arranged by disability instructor Kalle Pajamaa. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät originated in 2009 at the Lyhty Association’s art workshop in Konala, Helsinki, which provides services for people with disabilities. Film director Pekka Karjalainen wanted to include a band of individuals with developmental disabilities in his movie called “Vähän kunnioitusta” (“A Little Respect”). Although the association had several bands, they decided to form a completely new one specifically for the film, centered around guitarist Pertti Kurikka, who had a strong punk background. Kurikka composed the song “Kallioon” (“Into the Rock”) during the summer of 2010 for the film’s premiere, with lyrics written by the band’s vocalist Kari Aalto. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät gained national attention in the spring of 2009 when Kalle Pajamaa, the instructor at the workshop, created a music video for the song and uploaded it to YouTube. Within a few weeks, it garnered over ten thousand views, and soon the band was offered a gig at the F*cking Disco punk club in Helsinki. In February 2010, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed at Tavastia Club, and that same winter, they embarked on their first concert tour outside the Helsinki metropolitan area, playing in Tampere. Following that, the band played hundreds of concerts and also performed internationally in countries such as the United States, Germany, Canada, Kosovo, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Norway. In May 2014, the band performed at a charity concert in Rovaniemi alongside Mr. Lordi of the band Lordi. In December 2014, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät embarked on a ten-concert tour in the United Kingdom with the English punk band Hard Skin. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät participated in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu, the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, in 2015 with their song “Aina mun pitää” (“I Always Have To”). The band eventually won. However, in the Eurovision Song Contest, the band did not qualify for the final and was eliminated in the first semifinal, not among the ten acts that advanced. Pertti Kurikka announced his retirement from playing rock music after turning 60, and the band ceased its activities on Kurikka’s birthday, December 26, 2016. The tickets for their final show at On the Rocks club in Helsinki cost 60 cents. Otto Talvio from Helsingin Sanomat described the band’s last performance as sweaty, cramped, and emotional. However, on December 5, 2017, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed one last time at Kansalaistori Square in Helsinki. The band had promised to do one more show if the “Ei myytävänä!” (“Not for Sale!”) citizens’ initiative received over 50,000 signatures, which is the requirement for the initiative to be considered by the Finnish Parliament. The citizens’ initiative opposes the outsourcing of housing and daily life services for people with disabilities. Entries Aina Mun Pitää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2015 LanguageFinnish LyricsPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät MusicPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät Backings– Results Semi Points: 13Position: 16Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/v4Y0HOPL5GU

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Aksel

About Quick Facts NameAksel Kankaanranta Born28 January 1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2021Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2020 In Eurovision2020 Rotterdam (canceled) SongLooking back (2020, canceled) Biography Aksel Kankaanranta is a Finnish singer and musician. His interest in music started as a child playing the violin. However, Aksel realized his talent as a singer when playing bass on Zen Café was really beautiful.  In 2017, Aksel participated in the Voice of Finland because his mother and sister encouraged him to apply. The only purpose was to test how far the hoops were. Aksel ended up in second place.  In 2019 Aksel won an award at the Emma gala for most streamed song. In 2020, he was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Looking back”. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen due to the corona crisis. In the summer of 2020, Kankaanranta got a record deal with Etenee Records, owned by Warner Music.In  2021, he was one of the seven finalists in the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, Uuden Musiikin Kilpilailu 2021. with the song “Hurt.” The song finished fifth in the competition. Entries Looking back Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2020 LanguageEnglish LyricsJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough MusicJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough Backings– Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/EgONBKFQpxE

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Waldo’s People

About Quick Facts MembersWaldoKaroliina KallioCapri VirkkunenPäivi SeloSami Lehto (not on stage)Karl Sinkkonen (not on stage)Kimmo Nissinen (not on stage) Founded1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLose Control (2009) Biography Waldo’s People is a Finnish electronic dance music group that became famous in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group is led by a talented musician known as Waldo, whose real name is Marko Reijonen. Waldo’s People created energetic and catchy dance music that captured the hearts of many fans in Finland and beyond. The band’s journey began in the late 1990s when electronic dance music was becoming very popular. Waldo’s People quickly made a name for themselves with their unique sound. They released their first album, “Waldo’s People,” in 1998. This album featured the hit single “U Drive Me Crazy,” which became a big success, reaching number 3 on the Finnish charts and even charting in Sweden. The album itself also did well, reaching number 6 on the Finnish charts. The success of this album was a significant achievement and helped the band gain even more popularity. Following their successful debut, Waldo’s People continued to produce great music. They released their second album, “No Man’s Land,” in 2000. This album included popular tracks like “I Dream,” “Let’s Get Busy,” and “1000 Ways,” the latter reaching number 4 on the Finnish charts. The album itself again reached number 6 in Finland. Their music is known for its upbeat and danceable tunes. In the early 2000s, Waldo’s People continued to influence the Finnish electronic dance music scene. In 2001, they released singles like “Remedy” and “Disconnected,” keeping their presence in the music scene alive. However, after a few years of success, the band took a break and was not as active. In 2008, Waldo’s People made a big comeback. They released a new single called “Back Again” on May 19, 2008, which reached number 1 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was followed by a compilation album, “Back Again: The Greatest Hits,” which included many of their popular songs and reached number 27 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was exciting for their fans, who had missed their energetic music. The following year, in 2009, Waldo’s People achieved another milestone. They released their third album, “Paranoid,” which reached number 13 in Finland. They were also selected to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. They performed the song “Lose Control” in the semifinals on May 12, 2009, in Moscow. Band members Sami Lehto, Karl Sinkkonen and Kimmo Nissinen were not on stage at the event. The performance was a success, and the band made it to the finals with the help of the jury votes. In the finals, they performed second to last. Although they finished in last place with 22 points, it was one of the highest point totals ever for a song that placed last in the Eurovision finals. This was still a proud moment for the band and their fans. In 2010, they continued to release new music, with singles like “I Wanna Be a Rockstar,” which reached number 15 in Finland, and “Jackpot,” which reached number 19. They followed up with more singles such as “Echo” in 2011 and “You” in 2014, maintaining their presence in the music industry. In 2019 Waldo’s People teamed up with Movetron for the song “Nousee”, Oku Luukkainen featuring in the song.  Entries Lose Control Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2009 LanguageEnglish LyricsAri LehtonenKarimaWaldoAnnie Kratz-Gutå MusicAri LehtonenKarima DancersNiko VirtanenAnton Kasmir Jolma Results Semi Points: 42Position: 12 (saved by the jury)Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 22Position: 25Running order: 24 https://youtu.be/D-Wr0z1_quw?si=sMCMIV8c4Qpc65K9

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Kuunkuiskaajat

About Quick Facts MembersJohanna VirtanenSusan Aho Active2009-2016, 2023 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongTyölki ellää (2010) Biography Kuunkuiskaajat was a Finnish folk duo, composed by Johanna Hytti-Virtanen and Susan Aho of the Värttinä band. Susan Aho has been a member of the Värttinä band since 1997 and Johanna Hytti since 2001. Kuunkuiskaajat (The moon whisperers) were formed when the German-Finnish Society was looking for a band to perform on eleven occasions on a German tour, including a tango. Virtanen and Aho stated that they could do this and went on a tour. The combination worked, and Kuunkuiskaajat released their first record in August 2009. In 2010, they represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Työlki ellää”. Eurovision made the release of their first album delay  until December.  In 2016, Kuunkuiskajat released their second album “Revitty rakkaus”. As a result, the duo also performed on Midsummer 2016. In May 2023, Kuunkuiskaajat released their parody of Käärijä‘s song ‘Cha cha cha,’ calling it a ‘boomer version.’ Kuunkuiskaajat have cited Laila Kinnunen and the Harmony Sisters as their musical influences. Entries Työlki ellää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2010 LanguageFinnish LyricsTimo Kiiskinen MusicTimo Kiiskinen BackingsAki EronenJukka TarvainenMaria Baric (violin) Results Semi Points: 49Position: 11Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oicT3jWtsc4?si=F1oa64fNsrS89Kbw

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Softengine

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersTopi LatukkaOssi MäkeläEero KeskinenHenri OskárTuomo Alarinta Active2011 – 2017 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongSomething Better (2014) Biography Softengine is a Finnish alternative pop-rock band. The story of this band traces back to 2011, in the small city of Seinäjoki, where its foundation was laid in an unlikely setting – a cottage owned by the grandparents of Topi Latukka. Topi Latukka, a key figure in the band’s formation, brought together a group of like-minded musicians. This idyllic retreat became the birthplace of Softengine. After a few years of practice, writing, and performing locally, Softengine achieved a remarkable feat in 2014, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. Their performance on the grand stage marked an important milestone in the band’s journey, amplifying their name to international audiences.  The momentum continued into 2015 when Softengine released their debut album.  While the journey of Softengine has been a testament to their collective talent and shared passion, it has not been without change. Eero Keskinen and Henri Oskár, both instrumental in the band’s formative years and early success, left the band in 2016. In 2017, the band made a tour throughout Finland. In the same year, the band announced that they were in the studio to write material for a new album. However, no music was released by the band, and no performances took place anymore. Topi Latukka went for a solo career. Entries Something Better Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsNames MusicNames Backings– Results Semi Points: 97Position: 3Running order: 8 Results Finals Points: 72Position: 11Running order: 18 https://youtu.be/3FDWaFfo1CU

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Pernilla Karlsson

About Quick Facts NamePernilla Karlsson Born11 June 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2012 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongNär Jag Blundar (2012) Biography Pernilla Karlsson, born June 11, 1990, in Siuntio, is a Finland-Swedish artist.  Karlsson engaged in music from an early age, though not always at a professional level. She has been singing and dancing almost her entire life, and at the age of 15, she won a competition called The Smallest Schlager Competition in the World. Despite her musical successes, she continued to focus on her other passion, handball, playing in Finland’s top division with Siuntio IF. As a female handball player, Karlsson has highlighted issues of sexist comments in the sports world. On February 25, 2012, she won Finland’s national selection (The Contest for New Music). She performed in the first semi-final on May 22 but did not advance to the final. After representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012, she has worked in music, including collaborations with her brother Jonas. On the Finland-Swedish radio channel Yle X3M, she created the program Stiftelsen together with Frida Lindholm. They called themselves “Frillan” and “Prillan” and since August 2014, also produced the podcast Frillan & Prillan OFF AIR. Karlsson left the radio channel in June 2018. Entries När Jag Blundar Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2012 LanguageFinnish LyricsJonas Karlsson MusicJonas Karlsson BackingsHeikki Takkula (cello) Results Semi Points: 41Position: 12Running order: 9 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/MRC5NzxmrAA?si=Gjx9BkslIeoImg6S

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Sandhja

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSandhja Kuivalainen Born16 March 1991 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongSing It Away (2016) Biography Sandhja Kuivalainen, born on 16 March 1991, is a Finnish singer known professionally as Sandhja.  Sandhja’s mother is Indo-Guyanese, and her father is Finnish. In her career, Sandhja released her debut single “Hold Me” in November 2013, which was the lead single from her first studio album. She followed it up with the release of “Gold” as the second single in March 2014. Her debut studio album, titled “Gold,” was released in May 2014. In 2015, Sandhja collaborated with Brandon Bauer on the single “The Flavor.” She also released her own single, “My Bass,” in October 2015. In January 2016, she was announced as one of the participants in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016, a Finnish music competition. She advanced to the final after competing in the third semi-final. Ultimately, she won the competition, securing the victory through the jury vote and placing third in the public vote. As the winner, Sandhja represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. She performed her song in the first semi-final but did not qualify for the final held on 14 May 2016. Prior to Eurovision, she released her second studio album, “Freedom Venture,” on 29 April 2016. The first single from this album to be released after Eurovision was “Love me high”. In 2017, Sandhja teamed up with Gracias & Ekow to release the song “We go on”.  On 28 May 2021, the group Gankino Circus released a song, “Summer”, in which Sandhja’s spoken word featured. She also performed with the band Kissat. In 2023 she formed the duo Maisa with her mother-in-law. They perform mainly the most popular Finnish tunes of the 40s-70s. Entries Sing It Away Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus Savijoki MusicSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus SavijokiHeikki Korhonen BackingsHeini IkonenTuuli IkonenLinda IlvesReetta KorhonenJepa Lambert Results Semi Points: 51Position: 15Running order: 1 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oAQIPxgQkM8

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Paradise Oskar

About Quick Facts NameAxel Ehnström Born23 October 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongDa Da Dam (2011) Biography Axel Ehnström, born on October 23, 1990, in Kirkkonummi, Finland, is a Finnish songwriter and musician recognized for his contributions to the music industry both as a performer and a songwriter. He gained international recognition as Paradise Oskar, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 with his song “Da Da Dam,” which placed 21st in the finals and won the Marcel Bezençon Press Award. Ehnström’s career is marked by his work with several notable artists and his involvement in gold and platinum-certified albums. He has collaborated with artists like Phoebe Ryan, Lost Frequencies, Isac Elliot, Anna Abreu, Christopher, Alle Farben, RAF Camorra, Dennis Kruissen, Madeline Juno, and Kasmir. Since joining Elements Music as a songwriter in 2013, he has achieved significant milestones, including co-writing Sofi De La Torre’s song “Vermillion,” recognized by Billboard as one of the best songs of 2014. His most notable works include featuring on Lost Frequencies’ single “All Or Nothing,” co-writing Deepend’s “Woke up in Bangkok,” and the co-writing of Alle Farben’s hit song “Bad Ideas.” Ehnström’s songwriting prowess was highlighted in both the 2016 and 2017 Finnish music industry reports by Music Finland, where he was recognized for having more international songwriting cuts than any other Finnish songwriter. In 2018, he was awarded the music export award of the year by the Finnish Music Publishers association for his contributions to the German music market. In 2022, Axel collaborated with Jyra for a song called “City Lights”. In October 2023 he teamed up with Mingue on the song “Fucking Lonely”. Ehnström’s personal life reflects his Swedish-speaking minority heritage in Finland, and he resides in Evitskog, Kirkkonummi. He adopted his stage name from Astrid Lindgren’s children’s book “Rasmus and the Vagabond,” where Paradise Oskar is a vagabond who plays the accordion, a name symbolizing his storytelling approach in music. His debut album, “Sunday Songs,” was released via Warner Music Finland on May 2, 2011.   Entries Da Da Dam Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsAxel Ehnström MusicAxel Ehnström Backings– Results Semi Points: 103Position: 3Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: 57Position: 21Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/rQ98uBQxbBo?si=PKnoTE2PS_45h7An

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Krista Siegfrids

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts NameKrista Siegfrids Born04 December 1985 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionMelodifestivalen 2017Melodifestivalen 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2013 In Eurovision2013 Malmö SongMarry Me (2013) Biography Krista Siegfrids is a Finnish singer and television presenter, best known for her participation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest. Siegfrids was born on December 4, 1985, in Kaskinen, Finland, to a Finnish-speaking family. She is the youngest of three siblings. From a young age, she demonstrated a passion for performing and music. She graduated from the Novia University of Applied Sciences, majoring in Music and Performing. While studying, she was part of a number of music ensembles and performed in various musicals. Her first major exposure came in 2011 when she took part in the first season of The Voice of Finland. Although she did not win the competition, it boosted her profile and allowed her to work on her debut album. Siegfrids’ breakthrough moment arrived in 2013 when she represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Marry Me”. The song, which became famous for its catchy tune and the stage kiss at the end of the performance, gave Siegfrids a lot of international attention. Despite finishing in 24th place, the experience was pivotal in her career. Following her Eurovision participation, she released her debut album “Ding Dong!” in May 2013. The album included “Marry Me” and other pop tracks, some of which she co-wrote. In 2015, Siegfrids released a series of three singles: “Cinderella” in January, “On & Off” in February, and “Better On My Own” in August. She also took part in the second season of “Tähdet, tähdet” on MTV3 in the spring, where she secured the fifth position. In November 2015, Siegfrids was selected to co-host the Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (New Music Competition) 2016 alongside Roope Salminen. SVT, later that month, revealed that she would be a contestant in Melodifestivalen, the Swedish Eurovision selection, in 2016 with her song “Faller”. However, she ended in the fifth position in the semi-finals and failed to progress to the finals. She made another attempt to represent Sweden in the 2017 Eurovision with her song “Snurra min jord”, but again didn’t reach the finals. Siegfrids also served as the host for Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu in the years 2017 and 2018. Siegfrids joined the panel of judges for the sixth and seventh seasons of “Talent Suomi”, a talent hunt show on MTV3, sharing the panel with Jorma Uotinen, HP Parviainen, and Ernest Lawson. In 2021 and 2022, she hosted Krista Calling, a series of backstage broadcasts at the Eurovision Song Contest for OutTV. Furthermore, she was slated to participate in the 14th season of “Dancing with the Stars” in autumn 2021. She recorded a Christmas duet with former Eurovision host Mikko Leppilampi, “Valkea Joulu”. She performed at Amsterdam Calling, a pre Eurovision Party, in 2022, followed by the Spanish pre Eurovision Party. At the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, she made reports for OutTV together with GJ Kooijman. Entries Marry Me Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2013 LanguageEnglish LyricsKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström MusicKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström BackingsEmelie GranvikReetta Korhonen DancersHaza KajipooriKiira KilpiöKatrin Vaskelainen Results Semi Points: 64Position: 9Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: 13Position: 24Running order: 4 https://youtu.be/dlBXOveVh7c

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Saara Aalto

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSaara Sofia Aalto Born02 May 1987 Nationality???????? Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2004Euroviisut 2011Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2018 In Eurovision2018 Lisbon SongMonsters (2018) Biography Saara Aalto is a Finnish singer, songwriter and voice actor, born in oulunsalo. Saara wrote her first songs at the age of five and in 1998, at the age of 11, won the Kotkan Meri Song Contest. She represented Finland at the International Golden Deer Song Contest (Cerbul de Aur) in Romania in 2004. In the same year, she took part in Euroviisut, the Finnish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, as a member of the group Heidi Kyrö & Just. She graduated from Madetoja Music High School in 2005, after which he moved to Helsinki to study music education at the Sibelius Academy. In 2007, She made her first public appearance when she competed in the Talent Suomi competition, finishing in the top three. Aalto perofrmed in the musicals “High School Musical 1 & 2” and “Wicked”. In 2011, she took part in Euroviisut again, this time solo with the song “Blessed with Love”. In may 2011, her first album, also titled “Blessed with love”, was released. In November 2011, Aalto’s second album, “Enkeleita – Angels”, was released, which, in addition to traditional Finnish and foreign Christmas songs, also featured Aalto’s own compositions.In 2012, Aalto participated in The Voice of Finland. After the competition, Aalto continued touring and opened the Blessed with Love online store selling eco-jewelery. Aalto’s third album, “You Had My Heart”, was released in may 2013. The album was the first one to hit the charts. In the same month, Aalto performed in Shanghai with opera lecturer José Carreras. A month later, she performed at the closing gala of the Shanghai International Film Festival. Aalto’s first Chinese album, “Ai De Zhu Fu”, was released in Finland and China in September 2013. In November-December 2013, Saara had her first concert hall tour. She also appeared in Disney’s animated film “Frozen”, as the voice of princess Anna. Saara participated in the 2016 Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa (UMK), now the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the song “No Fear”. She became 2nd again. She also took part in The X Factor UK in 2016. Here, she also took the 2nd place. Newspaper Iltalehti chose her as the Finn of the year and she won the Finland Prize. The Finland Prize is a recognition of the Minister for Education and Culture for her outstanding artistic career. In 2017, Lidl launched an international advertising campaign in which Saara sang in the 20 languages ​​spoken in Lidl’s market areas. She was one of the four judges of X Factor Finland. In 2018, Saara Aalto was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Monsters”. A month before Eurovision she released a new album called “Wild wild wonderland”, followed by a concert tour. In november 2019 a new album called “Fairytale: Joulun taikaa” was released. The single “Koska et oo täällä enää” became a hit in Finland. Also an international version of the album, “Fairytale: international” was released. In the autumn of 2021, Aalto played the role of Scaramouche in the musical “We Will Rock You” in Helsinki. In December of the same year, she went on a christmas tour together with Teemu Roivanen. In June 2022, Saara released a charity single, “This world”, in aid of Save The Children. Entries Monsters Country???????? Finland Year2018 LanguageEnglish LyricsSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald MusicSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald BackingsTuuli IkonenHeli LyytikäinenTeemu RoivanenYves CueniKane Horn Results Semi Points: 108Position: 10Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 46Position: 25Running order: 17 https://youtu.be/hdjiuCUUpPc

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Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersPertti KurikkaKari AaltoSami HelleToni Välitalo Active2009-2016 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2015 In Eurovision2015 Vienna SongAina Mun Pitää (2015) Biography Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (also known as PKN) was a Finnish punk band that operated from 2009 to 2016. The band consisted of Pertti Kurikka (guitar, compositions, lyrics), Kari Aalto (vocals, lyrics), Sami Helle (bass), and Toni Välitalo (drums). The band was managed and their music arranged by disability instructor Kalle Pajamaa. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät originated in 2009 at the Lyhty Association’s art workshop in Konala, Helsinki, which provides services for people with disabilities. Film director Pekka Karjalainen wanted to include a band of individuals with developmental disabilities in his movie called “Vähän kunnioitusta” (“A Little Respect”). Although the association had several bands, they decided to form a completely new one specifically for the film, centered around guitarist Pertti Kurikka, who had a strong punk background. Kurikka composed the song “Kallioon” (“Into the Rock”) during the summer of 2010 for the film’s premiere, with lyrics written by the band’s vocalist Kari Aalto. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät gained national attention in the spring of 2009 when Kalle Pajamaa, the instructor at the workshop, created a music video for the song and uploaded it to YouTube. Within a few weeks, it garnered over ten thousand views, and soon the band was offered a gig at the F*cking Disco punk club in Helsinki. In February 2010, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed at Tavastia Club, and that same winter, they embarked on their first concert tour outside the Helsinki metropolitan area, playing in Tampere. Following that, the band played hundreds of concerts and also performed internationally in countries such as the United States, Germany, Canada, Kosovo, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Norway. In May 2014, the band performed at a charity concert in Rovaniemi alongside Mr. Lordi of the band Lordi. In December 2014, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät embarked on a ten-concert tour in the United Kingdom with the English punk band Hard Skin. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät participated in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu, the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, in 2015 with their song “Aina mun pitää” (“I Always Have To”). The band eventually won. However, in the Eurovision Song Contest, the band did not qualify for the final and was eliminated in the first semifinal, not among the ten acts that advanced. Pertti Kurikka announced his retirement from playing rock music after turning 60, and the band ceased its activities on Kurikka’s birthday, December 26, 2016. The tickets for their final show at On the Rocks club in Helsinki cost 60 cents. Otto Talvio from Helsingin Sanomat described the band’s last performance as sweaty, cramped, and emotional. However, on December 5, 2017, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed one last time at Kansalaistori Square in Helsinki. The band had promised to do one more show if the “Ei myytävänä!” (“Not for Sale!”) citizens’ initiative received over 50,000 signatures, which is the requirement for the initiative to be considered by the Finnish Parliament. The citizens’ initiative opposes the outsourcing of housing and daily life services for people with disabilities. Entries Aina Mun Pitää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2015 LanguageFinnish LyricsPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät MusicPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät Backings– Results Semi Points: 13Position: 16Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/v4Y0HOPL5GU

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Aksel

About Quick Facts NameAksel Kankaanranta Born28 January 1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2021Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2020 In Eurovision2020 Rotterdam (canceled) SongLooking back (2020, canceled) Biography Aksel Kankaanranta is a Finnish singer and musician. His interest in music started as a child playing the violin. However, Aksel realized his talent as a singer when playing bass on Zen Café was really beautiful.  In 2017, Aksel participated in the Voice of Finland because his mother and sister encouraged him to apply. The only purpose was to test how far the hoops were. Aksel ended up in second place.  In 2019 Aksel won an award at the Emma gala for most streamed song. In 2020, he was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Looking back”. Unfortunately, that didn’t happen due to the corona crisis. In the summer of 2020, Kankaanranta got a record deal with Etenee Records, owned by Warner Music.In  2021, he was one of the seven finalists in the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, Uuden Musiikin Kilpilailu 2021. with the song “Hurt.” The song finished fifth in the competition. Entries Looking back Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2020 LanguageEnglish LyricsJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough MusicJoonas AngeriaWithney PhillipsConnor McDonoughRiley McDonoughToby McDonough Backings– Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/EgONBKFQpxE

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Waldo’s People

About Quick Facts MembersWaldoKaroliina KallioCapri VirkkunenPäivi SeloSami Lehto (not on stage)Karl Sinkkonen (not on stage)Kimmo Nissinen (not on stage) Founded1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLose Control (2009) Biography Waldo’s People is a Finnish electronic dance music group that became famous in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group is led by a talented musician known as Waldo, whose real name is Marko Reijonen. Waldo’s People created energetic and catchy dance music that captured the hearts of many fans in Finland and beyond. The band’s journey began in the late 1990s when electronic dance music was becoming very popular. Waldo’s People quickly made a name for themselves with their unique sound. They released their first album, “Waldo’s People,” in 1998. This album featured the hit single “U Drive Me Crazy,” which became a big success, reaching number 3 on the Finnish charts and even charting in Sweden. The album itself also did well, reaching number 6 on the Finnish charts. The success of this album was a significant achievement and helped the band gain even more popularity. Following their successful debut, Waldo’s People continued to produce great music. They released their second album, “No Man’s Land,” in 2000. This album included popular tracks like “I Dream,” “Let’s Get Busy,” and “1000 Ways,” the latter reaching number 4 on the Finnish charts. The album itself again reached number 6 in Finland. Their music is known for its upbeat and danceable tunes. In the early 2000s, Waldo’s People continued to influence the Finnish electronic dance music scene. In 2001, they released singles like “Remedy” and “Disconnected,” keeping their presence in the music scene alive. However, after a few years of success, the band took a break and was not as active. In 2008, Waldo’s People made a big comeback. They released a new single called “Back Again” on May 19, 2008, which reached number 1 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was followed by a compilation album, “Back Again: The Greatest Hits,” which included many of their popular songs and reached number 27 on the Finnish charts. This comeback was exciting for their fans, who had missed their energetic music. The following year, in 2009, Waldo’s People achieved another milestone. They released their third album, “Paranoid,” which reached number 13 in Finland. They were also selected to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. They performed the song “Lose Control” in the semifinals on May 12, 2009, in Moscow. Band members Sami Lehto, Karl Sinkkonen and Kimmo Nissinen were not on stage at the event. The performance was a success, and the band made it to the finals with the help of the jury votes. In the finals, they performed second to last. Although they finished in last place with 22 points, it was one of the highest point totals ever for a song that placed last in the Eurovision finals. This was still a proud moment for the band and their fans. In 2010, they continued to release new music, with singles like “I Wanna Be a Rockstar,” which reached number 15 in Finland, and “Jackpot,” which reached number 19. They followed up with more singles such as “Echo” in 2011 and “You” in 2014, maintaining their presence in the music industry. In 2019 Waldo’s People teamed up with Movetron for the song “Nousee”, Oku Luukkainen featuring in the song.  Entries Lose Control Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2009 LanguageEnglish LyricsAri LehtonenKarimaWaldoAnnie Kratz-Gutå MusicAri LehtonenKarima DancersNiko VirtanenAnton Kasmir Jolma Results Semi Points: 42Position: 12 (saved by the jury)Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 22Position: 25Running order: 24 https://youtu.be/D-Wr0z1_quw?si=sMCMIV8c4Qpc65K9

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Kuunkuiskaajat

About Quick Facts MembersJohanna VirtanenSusan Aho Active2009-2016, 2023 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongTyölki ellää (2010) Biography Kuunkuiskaajat was a Finnish folk duo, composed by Johanna Hytti-Virtanen and Susan Aho of the Värttinä band. Susan Aho has been a member of the Värttinä band since 1997 and Johanna Hytti since 2001. Kuunkuiskaajat (The moon whisperers) were formed when the German-Finnish Society was looking for a band to perform on eleven occasions on a German tour, including a tango. Virtanen and Aho stated that they could do this and went on a tour. The combination worked, and Kuunkuiskaajat released their first record in August 2009. In 2010, they represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Työlki ellää”. Eurovision made the release of their first album delay  until December.  In 2016, Kuunkuiskajat released their second album “Revitty rakkaus”. As a result, the duo also performed on Midsummer 2016. In May 2023, Kuunkuiskaajat released their parody of Käärijä‘s song ‘Cha cha cha,’ calling it a ‘boomer version.’ Kuunkuiskaajat have cited Laila Kinnunen and the Harmony Sisters as their musical influences. Entries Työlki ellää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2010 LanguageFinnish LyricsTimo Kiiskinen MusicTimo Kiiskinen BackingsAki EronenJukka TarvainenMaria Baric (violin) Results Semi Points: 49Position: 11Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oicT3jWtsc4?si=F1oa64fNsrS89Kbw

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Softengine

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersTopi LatukkaOssi MäkeläEero KeskinenHenri OskárTuomo Alarinta Active2011 – 2017 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongSomething Better (2014) Biography Softengine is a Finnish alternative pop-rock band. The story of this band traces back to 2011, in the small city of Seinäjoki, where its foundation was laid in an unlikely setting – a cottage owned by the grandparents of Topi Latukka. Topi Latukka, a key figure in the band’s formation, brought together a group of like-minded musicians. This idyllic retreat became the birthplace of Softengine. After a few years of practice, writing, and performing locally, Softengine achieved a remarkable feat in 2014, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest. Their performance on the grand stage marked an important milestone in the band’s journey, amplifying their name to international audiences.  The momentum continued into 2015 when Softengine released their debut album.  While the journey of Softengine has been a testament to their collective talent and shared passion, it has not been without change. Eero Keskinen and Henri Oskár, both instrumental in the band’s formative years and early success, left the band in 2016. In 2017, the band made a tour throughout Finland. In the same year, the band announced that they were in the studio to write material for a new album. However, no music was released by the band, and no performances took place anymore. Topi Latukka went for a solo career. Entries Something Better Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsNames MusicNames Backings– Results Semi Points: 97Position: 3Running order: 8 Results Finals Points: 72Position: 11Running order: 18 https://youtu.be/3FDWaFfo1CU

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Pernilla Karlsson

About Quick Facts NamePernilla Karlsson Born11 June 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2012 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongNär Jag Blundar (2012) Biography Pernilla Karlsson, born June 11, 1990, in Siuntio, is a Finland-Swedish artist.  Karlsson engaged in music from an early age, though not always at a professional level. She has been singing and dancing almost her entire life, and at the age of 15, she won a competition called The Smallest Schlager Competition in the World. Despite her musical successes, she continued to focus on her other passion, handball, playing in Finland’s top division with Siuntio IF. As a female handball player, Karlsson has highlighted issues of sexist comments in the sports world. On February 25, 2012, she won Finland’s national selection (The Contest for New Music). She performed in the first semi-final on May 22 but did not advance to the final. After representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012, she has worked in music, including collaborations with her brother Jonas. On the Finland-Swedish radio channel Yle X3M, she created the program Stiftelsen together with Frida Lindholm. They called themselves “Frillan” and “Prillan” and since August 2014, also produced the podcast Frillan & Prillan OFF AIR. Karlsson left the radio channel in June 2018. Entries När Jag Blundar Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2012 LanguageFinnish LyricsJonas Karlsson MusicJonas Karlsson BackingsHeikki Takkula (cello) Results Semi Points: 41Position: 12Running order: 9 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/MRC5NzxmrAA?si=Gjx9BkslIeoImg6S

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Sandhja

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSandhja Kuivalainen Born16 March 1991 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongSing It Away (2016) Biography Sandhja Kuivalainen, born on 16 March 1991, is a Finnish singer known professionally as Sandhja.  Sandhja’s mother is Indo-Guyanese, and her father is Finnish. In her career, Sandhja released her debut single “Hold Me” in November 2013, which was the lead single from her first studio album. She followed it up with the release of “Gold” as the second single in March 2014. Her debut studio album, titled “Gold,” was released in May 2014. In 2015, Sandhja collaborated with Brandon Bauer on the single “The Flavor.” She also released her own single, “My Bass,” in October 2015. In January 2016, she was announced as one of the participants in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016, a Finnish music competition. She advanced to the final after competing in the third semi-final. Ultimately, she won the competition, securing the victory through the jury vote and placing third in the public vote. As the winner, Sandhja represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016. She performed her song in the first semi-final but did not qualify for the final held on 14 May 2016. Prior to Eurovision, she released her second studio album, “Freedom Venture,” on 29 April 2016. The first single from this album to be released after Eurovision was “Love me high”. In 2017, Sandhja teamed up with Gracias & Ekow to release the song “We go on”.  On 28 May 2021, the group Gankino Circus released a song, “Summer”, in which Sandhja’s spoken word featured. She also performed with the band Kissat. In 2023 she formed the duo Maisa with her mother-in-law. They perform mainly the most popular Finnish tunes of the 40s-70s. Entries Sing It Away Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus Savijoki MusicSandhja KuivalainenMilos RosasPetri MataraMarkus SavijokiHeikki Korhonen BackingsHeini IkonenTuuli IkonenLinda IlvesReetta KorhonenJepa Lambert Results Semi Points: 51Position: 15Running order: 1 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/oAQIPxgQkM8

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Paradise Oskar

About Quick Facts NameAxel Ehnström Born23 October 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongDa Da Dam (2011) Biography Axel Ehnström, born on October 23, 1990, in Kirkkonummi, Finland, is a Finnish songwriter and musician recognized for his contributions to the music industry both as a performer and a songwriter. He gained international recognition as Paradise Oskar, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 with his song “Da Da Dam,” which placed 21st in the finals and won the Marcel Bezençon Press Award. Ehnström’s career is marked by his work with several notable artists and his involvement in gold and platinum-certified albums. He has collaborated with artists like Phoebe Ryan, Lost Frequencies, Isac Elliot, Anna Abreu, Christopher, Alle Farben, RAF Camorra, Dennis Kruissen, Madeline Juno, and Kasmir. Since joining Elements Music as a songwriter in 2013, he has achieved significant milestones, including co-writing Sofi De La Torre’s song “Vermillion,” recognized by Billboard as one of the best songs of 2014. His most notable works include featuring on Lost Frequencies’ single “All Or Nothing,” co-writing Deepend’s “Woke up in Bangkok,” and the co-writing of Alle Farben’s hit song “Bad Ideas.” Ehnström’s songwriting prowess was highlighted in both the 2016 and 2017 Finnish music industry reports by Music Finland, where he was recognized for having more international songwriting cuts than any other Finnish songwriter. In 2018, he was awarded the music export award of the year by the Finnish Music Publishers association for his contributions to the German music market. In 2022, Axel collaborated with Jyra for a song called “City Lights”. In October 2023 he teamed up with Mingue on the song “Fucking Lonely”. Ehnström’s personal life reflects his Swedish-speaking minority heritage in Finland, and he resides in Evitskog, Kirkkonummi. He adopted his stage name from Astrid Lindgren’s children’s book “Rasmus and the Vagabond,” where Paradise Oskar is a vagabond who plays the accordion, a name symbolizing his storytelling approach in music. His debut album, “Sunday Songs,” was released via Warner Music Finland on May 2, 2011.   Entries Da Da Dam Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsAxel Ehnström MusicAxel Ehnström Backings– Results Semi Points: 103Position: 3Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: 57Position: 21Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/rQ98uBQxbBo?si=PKnoTE2PS_45h7An

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Krista Siegfrids

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts NameKrista Siegfrids Born04 December 1985 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionMelodifestivalen 2017Melodifestivalen 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2013 In Eurovision2013 Malmö SongMarry Me (2013) Biography Krista Siegfrids is a Finnish singer and television presenter, best known for her participation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest. Siegfrids was born on December 4, 1985, in Kaskinen, Finland, to a Finnish-speaking family. She is the youngest of three siblings. From a young age, she demonstrated a passion for performing and music. She graduated from the Novia University of Applied Sciences, majoring in Music and Performing. While studying, she was part of a number of music ensembles and performed in various musicals. Her first major exposure came in 2011 when she took part in the first season of The Voice of Finland. Although she did not win the competition, it boosted her profile and allowed her to work on her debut album. Siegfrids’ breakthrough moment arrived in 2013 when she represented Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Marry Me”. The song, which became famous for its catchy tune and the stage kiss at the end of the performance, gave Siegfrids a lot of international attention. Despite finishing in 24th place, the experience was pivotal in her career. Following her Eurovision participation, she released her debut album “Ding Dong!” in May 2013. The album included “Marry Me” and other pop tracks, some of which she co-wrote. In 2015, Siegfrids released a series of three singles: “Cinderella” in January, “On & Off” in February, and “Better On My Own” in August. She also took part in the second season of “Tähdet, tähdet” on MTV3 in the spring, where she secured the fifth position. In November 2015, Siegfrids was selected to co-host the Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (New Music Competition) 2016 alongside Roope Salminen. SVT, later that month, revealed that she would be a contestant in Melodifestivalen, the Swedish Eurovision selection, in 2016 with her song “Faller”. However, she ended in the fifth position in the semi-finals and failed to progress to the finals. She made another attempt to represent Sweden in the 2017 Eurovision with her song “Snurra min jord”, but again didn’t reach the finals. Siegfrids also served as the host for Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu in the years 2017 and 2018. Siegfrids joined the panel of judges for the sixth and seventh seasons of “Talent Suomi”, a talent hunt show on MTV3, sharing the panel with Jorma Uotinen, HP Parviainen, and Ernest Lawson. In 2021 and 2022, she hosted Krista Calling, a series of backstage broadcasts at the Eurovision Song Contest for OutTV. Furthermore, she was slated to participate in the 14th season of “Dancing with the Stars” in autumn 2021. She recorded a Christmas duet with former Eurovision host Mikko Leppilampi, “Valkea Joulu”. She performed at Amsterdam Calling, a pre Eurovision Party, in 2022, followed by the Spanish pre Eurovision Party. At the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, she made reports for OutTV together with GJ Kooijman. Entries Marry Me Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2013 LanguageEnglish LyricsKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström MusicKrista SiegfridsErik NyholmKristofer KarlssonJessika Lundström BackingsEmelie GranvikReetta Korhonen DancersHaza KajipooriKiira KilpiöKatrin Vaskelainen Results Semi Points: 64Position: 9Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: 13Position: 24Running order: 4 https://youtu.be/dlBXOveVh7c

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Saara Aalto

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSaara Sofia Aalto Born02 May 1987 Nationality???????? Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2004Euroviisut 2011Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2018 In Eurovision2018 Lisbon SongMonsters (2018) Biography Saara Aalto is a Finnish singer, songwriter and voice actor, born in oulunsalo. Saara wrote her first songs at the age of five and in 1998, at the age of 11, won the Kotkan Meri Song Contest. She represented Finland at the International Golden Deer Song Contest (Cerbul de Aur) in Romania in 2004. In the same year, she took part in Euroviisut, the Finnish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, as a member of the group Heidi Kyrö & Just. She graduated from Madetoja Music High School in 2005, after which he moved to Helsinki to study music education at the Sibelius Academy. In 2007, She made her first public appearance when she competed in the Talent Suomi competition, finishing in the top three. Aalto perofrmed in the musicals “High School Musical 1 & 2” and “Wicked”. In 2011, she took part in Euroviisut again, this time solo with the song “Blessed with Love”. In may 2011, her first album, also titled “Blessed with love”, was released. In November 2011, Aalto’s second album, “Enkeleita – Angels”, was released, which, in addition to traditional Finnish and foreign Christmas songs, also featured Aalto’s own compositions.In 2012, Aalto participated in The Voice of Finland. After the competition, Aalto continued touring and opened the Blessed with Love online store selling eco-jewelery. Aalto’s third album, “You Had My Heart”, was released in may 2013. The album was the first one to hit the charts. In the same month, Aalto performed in Shanghai with opera lecturer José Carreras. A month later, she performed at the closing gala of the Shanghai International Film Festival. Aalto’s first Chinese album, “Ai De Zhu Fu”, was released in Finland and China in September 2013. In November-December 2013, Saara had her first concert hall tour. She also appeared in Disney’s animated film “Frozen”, as the voice of princess Anna. Saara participated in the 2016 Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa (UMK), now the national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the song “No Fear”. She became 2nd again. She also took part in The X Factor UK in 2016. Here, she also took the 2nd place. Newspaper Iltalehti chose her as the Finn of the year and she won the Finland Prize. The Finland Prize is a recognition of the Minister for Education and Culture for her outstanding artistic career. In 2017, Lidl launched an international advertising campaign in which Saara sang in the 20 languages ​​spoken in Lidl’s market areas. She was one of the four judges of X Factor Finland. In 2018, Saara Aalto was chosen to represent Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Monsters”. A month before Eurovision she released a new album called “Wild wild wonderland”, followed by a concert tour. In november 2019 a new album called “Fairytale: Joulun taikaa” was released. The single “Koska et oo täällä enää” became a hit in Finland. Also an international version of the album, “Fairytale: international” was released. In the autumn of 2021, Aalto played the role of Scaramouche in the musical “We Will Rock You” in Helsinki. In December of the same year, she went on a christmas tour together with Teemu Roivanen. In June 2022, Saara released a charity single, “This world”, in aid of Save The Children. Entries Monsters Country???????? Finland Year2018 LanguageEnglish LyricsSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald MusicSaara AaltoJoy DebLinnea DebKi Fitzgerald BackingsTuuli IkonenHeli LyytikäinenTeemu RoivanenYves CueniKane Horn Results Semi Points: 108Position: 10Running order: 15 Results Finals Points: 46Position: 25Running order: 17 https://youtu.be/hdjiuCUUpPc

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Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersPertti KurikkaKari AaltoSami HelleToni Välitalo Active2009-2016 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2015 In Eurovision2015 Vienna SongAina Mun Pitää (2015) Biography Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (also known as PKN) was a Finnish punk band that operated from 2009 to 2016. The band consisted of Pertti Kurikka (guitar, compositions, lyrics), Kari Aalto (vocals, lyrics), Sami Helle (bass), and Toni Välitalo (drums). The band was managed and their music arranged by disability instructor Kalle Pajamaa. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät originated in 2009 at the Lyhty Association’s art workshop in Konala, Helsinki, which provides services for people with disabilities. Film director Pekka Karjalainen wanted to include a band of individuals with developmental disabilities in his movie called “Vähän kunnioitusta” (“A Little Respect”). Although the association had several bands, they decided to form a completely new one specifically for the film, centered around guitarist Pertti Kurikka, who had a strong punk background. Kurikka composed the song “Kallioon” (“Into the Rock”) during the summer of 2010 for the film’s premiere, with lyrics written by the band’s vocalist Kari Aalto. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät gained national attention in the spring of 2009 when Kalle Pajamaa, the instructor at the workshop, created a music video for the song and uploaded it to YouTube. Within a few weeks, it garnered over ten thousand views, and soon the band was offered a gig at the F*cking Disco punk club in Helsinki. In February 2010, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed at Tavastia Club, and that same winter, they embarked on their first concert tour outside the Helsinki metropolitan area, playing in Tampere. Following that, the band played hundreds of concerts and also performed internationally in countries such as the United States, Germany, Canada, Kosovo, Switzerland, the Netherlands, and Norway. In May 2014, the band performed at a charity concert in Rovaniemi alongside Mr. Lordi of the band Lordi. In December 2014, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät embarked on a ten-concert tour in the United Kingdom with the English punk band Hard Skin. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät participated in Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu, the Finnish national final for the Eurovision Song Contest, in 2015 with their song “Aina mun pitää” (“I Always Have To”). The band eventually won. However, in the Eurovision Song Contest, the band did not qualify for the final and was eliminated in the first semifinal, not among the ten acts that advanced. Pertti Kurikka announced his retirement from playing rock music after turning 60, and the band ceased its activities on Kurikka’s birthday, December 26, 2016. The tickets for their final show at On the Rocks club in Helsinki cost 60 cents. Otto Talvio from Helsingin Sanomat described the band’s last performance as sweaty, cramped, and emotional. However, on December 5, 2017, Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät performed one last time at Kansalaistori Square in Helsinki. The band had promised to do one more show if the “Ei myytävänä!” (“Not for Sale!”) citizens’ initiative received over 50,000 signatures, which is the requirement for the initiative to be considered by the Finnish Parliament. The citizens’ initiative opposes the outsourcing of housing and daily life services for people with disabilities. Entries Aina Mun Pitää Country🇫🇮 Finland Year2015 LanguageFinnish LyricsPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät MusicPertti Kurikan Nimipäivät Backings– Results Semi Points: 13Position: 16Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/v4Y0HOPL5GU

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Aksel

About Quick Facts NameAksel Kankaanranta Born28 January 1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2021Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2020 In Eurovision2020 Rotterdam (canceled) SongLooking back (2020, canceled) Biography Aksel Kankaanranta is a Finnish singer and musician. His interest in music started as a child playing the violin. However, Aksel realized his talent as a singer when playing bass on Zen Café was really beautiful.  In 2017, Aksel participated in the Voice of Finland because his mother and sister encouraged him to apply. The only purpose was to test how far the hoops were. Aksel ended up in second place.  In 2019 Aksel

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Waldo’s People

About Quick Facts MembersWaldoKaroliina KallioCapri VirkkunenPäivi SeloSami Lehto (not on stage)Karl Sinkkonen (not on stage)Kimmo Nissinen (not on stage) Founded1998 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongLose Control (2009) Biography Waldo’s People is a Finnish electronic dance music group that became famous in the late 1990s and early 2000s. The group is led by a talented musician known as Waldo, whose real name is Marko Reijonen. Waldo’s People created energetic and catchy dance music that captured the hearts of many fans in Finland and beyond. The band’s journey began in the late 1990s when electronic dance music was becoming

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Kuunkuiskaajat

About Quick Facts MembersJohanna VirtanenSusan Aho Active2009-2016, 2023 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongTyölki ellää (2010) Biography Kuunkuiskaajat was a Finnish folk duo, composed by Johanna Hytti-Virtanen and Susan Aho of the Värttinä band. Susan Aho has been a member of the Värttinä band since 1997 and Johanna Hytti since 2001. Kuunkuiskaajat (The moon whisperers) were formed when the German-Finnish Society was looking for a band to perform on eleven occasions on a German tour, including a tango. Virtanen and Aho stated that they could do this and went on a tour. The combination worked, and Kuunkuiskaajat released

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Softengine

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersTopi LatukkaOssi MäkeläEero KeskinenHenri OskárTuomo Alarinta Active2011 – 2017 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongSomething Better (2014) Biography Softengine is a Finnish alternative pop-rock band. The story of this band traces back to 2011, in the small city of Seinäjoki, where its foundation was laid in an unlikely setting – a cottage owned by the grandparents of Topi Latukka. Topi Latukka, a key figure in the band’s formation, brought together a group of like-minded musicians. This idyllic retreat became the birthplace of Softengine. After a few years of practice, writing,

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Pernilla Karlsson

About Quick Facts NamePernilla Karlsson Born11 June 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2012 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongNär Jag Blundar (2012) Biography Pernilla Karlsson, born June 11, 1990, in Siuntio, is a Finland-Swedish artist.  Karlsson engaged in music from an early age, though not always at a professional level. She has been singing and dancing almost her entire life, and at the age of 15, she won a competition called The Smallest Schlager Competition in the World. Despite her musical successes, she continued to focus on her other passion, handball, playing in Finland’s top division with Siuntio IF. As a

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Sandhja

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSandhja Kuivalainen Born16 March 1991 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongSing It Away (2016) Biography Sandhja Kuivalainen, born on 16 March 1991, is a Finnish singer known professionally as Sandhja.  Sandhja’s mother is Indo-Guyanese, and her father is Finnish. In her career, Sandhja released her debut single “Hold Me” in November 2013, which was the lead single from her first studio album. She followed it up with the release of “Gold” as the second single in March 2014. Her debut studio album, titled “Gold,” was released in May 2014. In

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Paradise Oskar

About Quick Facts NameAxel Ehnström Born23 October 1990 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2011 In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongDa Da Dam (2011) Biography Axel Ehnström, born on October 23, 1990, in Kirkkonummi, Finland, is a Finnish songwriter and musician recognized for his contributions to the music industry both as a performer and a songwriter. He gained international recognition as Paradise Oskar, representing Finland in the Eurovision Song Contest 2011 with his song “Da Da Dam,” which placed 21st in the finals and won the Marcel Bezençon Press Award. Ehnström’s career is marked by his work with several notable artists and his involvement in

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Krista Siegfrids

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts NameKrista Siegfrids Born04 December 1985 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionMelodifestivalen 2017Melodifestivalen 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2013 In Eurovision2013 Malmö SongMarry Me (2013) Biography Krista Siegfrids is a Finnish singer and television presenter, best known for her participation in the 2013 Eurovision Song Contest. Siegfrids was born on December 4, 1985, in Kaskinen, Finland, to a Finnish-speaking family. She is the youngest of three siblings. From a young age, she demonstrated a passion for performing and music. She graduated from the Novia University of Applied Sciences, majoring in Music and Performing. While studying, she was part of a

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Saara Aalto

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts NameSaara Sofia Aalto Born02 May 1987 Nationality???????? Finnish National SelectionEuroviisut 2004Euroviisut 2011Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2016Uuden Musiikin Kilpailussa 2018 In Eurovision2018 Lisbon SongMonsters (2018) Biography Saara Aalto is a Finnish singer, songwriter and voice actor, born in oulunsalo. Saara wrote her first songs at the age of five and in 1998, at the age of 11, won the Kotkan Meri Song Contest. She represented Finland at the International Golden Deer Song Contest (Cerbul de Aur) in Romania in 2004. In the same year, she took part in Euroviisut, the Finnish national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest,

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Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersPertti KurikkaKari AaltoSami HelleToni Välitalo Active2009-2016 Nationality🇫🇮 Finnish National SelectionUuden Musiikin Kilpailu 2015 In Eurovision2015 Vienna SongAina Mun Pitää (2015) Biography Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät (also known as PKN) was a Finnish punk band that operated from 2009 to 2016. The band consisted of Pertti Kurikka (guitar, compositions, lyrics), Kari Aalto (vocals, lyrics), Sami Helle (bass), and Toni Välitalo (drums). The band was managed and their music arranged by disability instructor Kalle Pajamaa. Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät originated in 2009 at the Lyhty Association’s art workshop in Konala, Helsinki, which provides services for people with disabilities. Film director

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