Groups

InCulto

© Ane Charlotte Spilde, Wikimedia Commons About Quick Facts MembersJurgis DidžiulisAurelijus MorlencasLaurynas LapėJonas NarbutasJievaras JasinskisŠarūnas Kirdeikis Active2003-2011 Nationality🇱🇹 Lithuanian National Selection“Eurovizijos” dainų konkurso nacionalinė atranka 2010“Eurovizijos” dainų konkurso nacionalinė atranka 2006 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongEastern European Funk (2010) Biography Formed in 2003, InCulto was a Lithuanian band known for blending unconventional electronic music with diverse musical influences, striving to merge organic and synthetic sounds and juxtaposing aggression with serenity. Their musical journey began ambitiously with the release of “PostSovPop” in 2004, marking their initial steps into the music industry with a mix of electronic and lively beats. That same year, the radio single “Jei labai nori” was released in collaboration with Linas Karalius, followed by the playful track “Suk, suk ratelį.” Their creative momentum continued into 2005 with the energetic “Boogaloo.” In 2006, InCulto made their first attempt to enter the Eurovision Song Contest with “Welcome to Lithuania,” securing a commendable second place in the national selection. The band’s experimentation and collaborative spirit were further showcased in 2007 with the release of “Marijos Žemės Superhitai” and two notable singles, “Reikia bandyt” featuring Erica Jennings and “Pasiilgau namų” alongside Andrius Rimiškis. In 2010, a pivotal year, they launched the “Eastern European Funk EP” and the album “Closer Than You Think”, capturing attention both locally and internationally. Their song “Eastern European Funk” won unanimous support during the national selection, earning them the honor to represent Lithuania at the Eurovision Song Contest in Oslo. Although they did not progress to the Grand Final, this experience was a significant highlight of their career. That year, the band also released “Keep on Dancing,” “Close to Midnight,” and “If Not Me,”. However, despite their success, InCulto announced in early 2011 that they would discontinue their activities. Entries Eastern European Funk Country🇱🇹 Lithuania Year2010 LanguageEnglish LyricsJurgis DidžiulisAurelijus MorlencasLaurynas LapėJonas NarbutasJievaras JasinskisŠarūnas Kirdeikis MusicJurgis DidžiulisAurelijus MorlencasLaurynas LapėJonas NarbutasJievaras JasinskisŠarūnas Kirdeikis Backings– Results Semi Points: 44Position: 12Running order: 1 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/XeOn-GG_eHo?si=Z5noEZ8X2UgeD_HX

Peter Nalitch & Friends

About Quick Facts NamePeter Andreyevich Nalitch Born30 April 1981 Nationality🇷🇺 Russian National SelectionEvrovidenie 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongLost And Forgotten (2010) Biography Youth and education Peter Nalitch, born on April 30, 1981, is a Russian musician and composer. Peter graduated from the Moscow Architectural Institute (MARCHI) in 2003, showcasing his aptitude in both technical and creative fields. However, music was an ever-present force in Peter’s life. His paternal grandfather, Zahid Omerovich Nalitch, was a renowned lyric tenor and broadcaster for the Yugoslav section of Moscow Radio, instilling in Peter an early appreciation for music. Zahid’s life story, marked by war and resilience, deeply influenced Peter. His grandfather, originally from Bosnia and Herzegovina, faced severe hardships during World War II, including the loss of his singing ability due to a tragic injury. This legacy of perseverance and passion for music became a cornerstone of Peter’s identity. Peter’s formal music education began at the Myaskovsky Children’s Music School, followed by studies at the Music College of the Moscow State Tchaikovsky Conservatory and the Orpheus studio under Irina Mukhina. In 2010, he further honed his skills by entering the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music, specializing in Academic Singing. Early career Nalitch’s music career took a significant leap in 2007 when he uploaded a self-made music video for his song “Guitar” on YouTube. The video quickly went viral, amassing 70,000 views in a month. This unexpected success led to his first public concert on November 9, 2007, at the Apshu club in Moscow. Following this, Peter formed the “Musical Collective of Peter Nalitch” (MKPN), which quickly gained popularity with successful concerts and a growing fan base. Between 2007 and 2010, MKPN toured extensively across Russia, supporting national sports teams at major events like the European Football Championship and the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Their first album, “Joy of Simple Melodies,” was released in 2008, followed by a concert film and maxi-single “Sea.” Eurovision In 2010, Peter Nalitch and his band represented Russia at the Eurovision Song Contest in Oslo with the song “Lost and Forgotten.” Their heartfelt performance earned them 11th place, cementing Peter’s reputation on the international stage. Eurovision was a pivotal moment in Peter’s career, exposing him to a wider audience and solidifying his status as a versatile artist. 2010 – 2018 Following Eurovision, Peter continued to diversify his musical repertoire. He ventured into classical opera, performing roles such as Rodolfo in Puccini’s “La Bohème” and Lensky in Tchaikovsky’s “Eugene Onegin.” He also released several more albums, including “Merry Baboons” (2010) and “Goldfish” (2012), showcasing his evolving musical style. Peter’s innovative spirit led to the creation of albums like “Kitchen” (2013), featuring songs in the fictional Babur language, and “Reflections in Puddles” (2018), funded through crowdfunding. His involvement in multimedia projects, such as composing for the RT channel’s “Romanovs100” project, further highlights his versatility. From 2018 onwards, Peter’s career continued to flourish. On November 9, 2018, he released his eighth album “Reflections in Puddles,” which featured complex arrangements performed by a chamber orchestra. The album was funded by a successful crowdfunding campaign on Planeta.ru. 2019 – 2024 In 2019, Peter’s work on the RT multimedia project “Romanovs100” received significant recognition, earning a shortlist position for Clio Music in the “Best Use of Original Music” category and winning the Original Music award at the 2019 New York Festival TV & Film Awards. Additionally, he composed the soundtrack for the film “Call Me Drozd,” which premiered in December 2020 and received accolades at several film festivals. The same year, Nalitch participated in the All-Russian competition for young composers “The Score of the Future,” where he was awarded the first prize in the “Composition for Voice and Piano” category. In December 2019, he also performed at the opening of the independent opera house — the Moscow Opera House (MOD), taking on the role of Vaudémont in Tchaikovsky’s “Iolanta.” 2020 saw the release of Peter’s ninth album “Morra” on October 23. Initially announced as a maxi-single, it expanded into a full-length album with 14 tracks, all funded through a crowdfunding campaign. The album’s presentation took place on December 19 at the Gorbunov Palace of Culture. In 2021, Peter released his first vinyl record, which included 11 tracks from his “Morra” album. He also contributed to the soundtrack of the film “Call Me Drozd,” which faced delays due to the pandemic but was well-received upon its eventual release. In May 2021, the film was presented at the V International Film Festival named after Vyacheslav Tikhonov in Pavlovsky Posad. Peter’s tenth album, “Pirates’ Songs,” was released on November 25, 2021, funded by his supporters on Planeta.ru. This album continued his tradition of blending various musical styles and exploring new creative territories. In 2022, Peter released his eleventh album “VIVAMUS” on February 4, again funded by a crowdfunding campaign. He was also recognized as the laureate of the first prize at the First All-Russian Competition for Composition and Instrumentation for the Orchestra of Russian Folk Instruments. In 2023, Peter appeared on the TV show “My Hero” with Tatyana Ustinova, and in May, he defended his diploma at the Gnessin Academy by performing the suite “Oblomov’s Marshes” for symphony orchestra, choir, and soloists. His compositions continued to captivate audiences, with premieres of new works like “Diary of an Old Master” and his participation in significant cultural events. In 2024, Peter released his twelfth album “Vanya, the Bird, and the Striped Shirt” on April 12, featuring 55 tracks and created in collaboration with Herman Mogilevsky. The album’s concert version premiered on April 26 and 27 at the Central House of Architects in Moscow. Entries Lost And Forgotten Country🇷🇺 Russia Year2010 LanguageEnglish LyricsPeter Nalitch MusicPeter Nalitch FriendsYuri KostenkoSergey SokolovKostya ShvetsovDima SimonovDenis Marinkin Results Semi Points: 74Position: 7Running order: 2 Results Finals Points: 90Position: 11Running order: 20 https://youtu.be/nFEwKjpDD2c?si=GKPf1NNZsCOLA5Ca

maNga

About Quick Facts MembersCem BahtiyarEfe YılmazFerman AkgülÖzgür Can ÖneyYağmur Sarıgül Founded2001 Nationality🇹🇷 Turkey National SelectionInternal selection 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongWe Could Be The Same (2010) Biography maNga, an Ankara-based Turkish rock band, delves into Alternative Rock, Nu-Metal, and Rapcore, boasting six studio albums to date. Their story unfolds from late 2001, beginning with Yağmur Sarıgül “Yamyam” (Guitar) merging rock with electronics, alongside Orçun Şekerusta (Bass Guitar), Özgür Can Öney (Drums), Efe Yılmaz (Turntable), and Ferman Akgül (Vocals), embracing Nu-Metal and Hardcore. This blend was spurred by Yamyam’s expulsion from a bar band and fueled by a desire to innovate within rock’s realms. Their ambition took them to the “Sing Your Song” contest in September 2001, marking the start of their album journey, which was further shaped by Orçun’s departure and Cem Bahtiyar’s entry. This pivotal moment led to the birth of maNga, inspired by Japanese comics, uniting diverse musical tastes and narratives. Their initial success was clinched with a second-place win at the “Sing Your Song” contest with “Kal Yanımda,” propelling them to produce hits like “Bitti Rüya,” “Libido,” and “Yalan.” Their endeavors were amplified by Haluk Kurosman’s support, driving them to share their music across Turkey. December 5, 2004, marked their debut album’s release, “maNga,” featuring collaborations with notable artists and achieving over 180,000 sales, earning a Gold Disc. The album’s tracks, including “Bir Kadın Çizeceksin,” found a place in EA Sports’ FIFA 2006 soundtrack, showcasing their growing influence. In June 2006, “maNga” was re-released as “maNga+” with new tracks and a DVD, reflecting the band’s evolving identity post-tours. This was followed by “Şehr-i Hüzün” in 2009, a testament to their refined sound and broader musical scope, resonating with fans and critics alike. A significant highlight was their Eurovision 2010 representation for Turkey with “We Could Be The Same,” achieving second place and marking a historic moment in their career. 2012 saw “E-akustik,” blending electric and acoustic sounds, featuring duets that underscored maNga’s versatility. This album underscored their adaptability and innovative spirit. In 2013, amidst their evolving journey, maNga announced the departure of DJ Efe Yılmaz, continuing as a quartet with unwavering commitment to their music and performances. Transitioning into a Rock-Nu Metal style, “Işıkları Söndürseler Bile” was unveiled in 2014, continuing their tradition of thematic and musical evolution. This period also saw their contribution to the soundtrack of “Hadi İnşallah,” reinterpreting Nilüfer’s “Yeniden Sev.” Post-2014, maNga embarked on cover projects and announced their studio return in 2018 under Demir Demirkan’s production, releasing “maNga X.” This era included summer tours, a 2019 maxi-single “Süper Güçlerimiz Var,” and teased an upcoming German single amidst plans for a new album in 2020, leading to the single “Zor” during COVID-19 quarantine days. The band’s shift towards progressive metal materialized with “Antroposen 001” in 2021, followed by “Antroposen 002” in 2023, marking their first entirely metal and experimental album. Entries We Could Be The Same Country🇹🇷 Turkey Year2010 LanguageEnglish LyricsEvren ÖzdemirCem BahtiyarEfe YılmazFerman AkgülÖzgür Can ÖneyYağmur SarıgülFiona Movery Akıncı MusicCem BahtiyarEfe YılmazFerman AkgülÖzgür Can ÖneyYağmur Sarıgül BackingsNathalie Marrable Results Semi Points: 118Position: 1Running order: 17 Results Finals Points: 170Position: 2Running order: 14 https://youtu.be/HB_GnnhNz-8?si=KmDEflRzgEj_K1Nr

Giorgos Alkaios

About Quick Facts NameGiorgos Alkaios Born24 December 1971 Nationality🇬🇷 Greek National SelectionEllinikós Telikós 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongOPA! (2010) Biography George Alkaios, born George Vasileiou in Athens on December 24, 1971, embarked on his musical journey after showing an early interest in both music and athletics. After a brief stint in Boston, Massachusetts, due to his family’s relocation, Alkaios returned to Greece where his career in entertainment began to take shape. His initial exposure to the broader public came through his participation in a Greek reality show in 1989, which paved the way for his entry into the music and theater scenes. Alkaios’s career in music officially kicked off in the early ’90s, with his debut album “Me Ligo… Trak” released in 1992. This album marked the beginning of a prolific period for Alkaios, as he consistently released new music, capturing the attention of the Greek audience with his unique blend of pop infused with traditional Greek and Eastern elements. Following his debut, Alkaios released a series of albums annually, with “Ach.. Koita Me” in 1993, “Den Peirazei” in 1994, and “Entos Eautou” in 1995, each building on the momentum of his career and establishing him as a significant figure in the Greek music industry. His musical output continued unabated with the release of “Aneu Logou” in 1996, followed by “En Psichro” in 1997, demonstrating his versatility and depth as an artist. In 1998, he released “Ichoi Siopis”, and in 1999, “Syrmatoplegma” came out, further cementing his status in the music scene. The turn of the millennium saw Alkaios exploring new musical directions with the release of “Pro Ton Pylon” in 2000 and “Oxygono in 2001. In 2002, he took a slightly different approach by releasing an EP titled “” Karma”, showcasing his ability to innovate and adapt to the evolving music landscape. In 2003, Alkaios released “Kommatia Psychis”, followed by “Aithousa Anamonis” in 2004. These albums were succeeded by Alkaios Live Tour in 2005, offering fans a taste of his dynamic live performances. His subsequent albums, “Nyhtes Apo Fos” in 2006, “Eleftheros” in 2007, and “To Diko Mas Paramythi” in 2008, showcased his continued evolution as an artist. The year 2010 was particularly notable for Alkaios, as he represented Greece at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “OPA!”. He reached the final and even an 8th place there, in addition to releasing the album “Dos Mou Ligo Fos”. He continued to release new music with “Deja Vu” in 2011 and then took a brief hiatus before returning with “Marionetes” in 2015. In 2021, Alkaios made a significant comeback with three albums: “Mosaic”, “My Utopia”, and “Zero Room71”, demonstrating his unwavering passion for music and his ability to remain relevant in the industry. Throughout the years, Alkaios also released several singles and EPs, including “Pnevmata” and “Ta Magika Sou Chilia” in 2016, followed by “Mia Psychi” and “Ligo Fos” in 2017. Entries OPA! Country🇬🇷 Greece Year2010 LanguageGreek LyricsGiannis AntoniouGiorgos AlkaiosDionysis SchinasKassiani KaragiouleDimitris HortariasStavros ApostolouTolis SchinasManos Hortarias MusicGiorgos Alkaios BackingsFriends:Lazos IoannidisIakovos GoguaJenia Evgenios BuliPetros ZlatkosAnastasios Kanaridis Results Semi Points: 133Position: 2Running order: 13 Results Finals Points: 140Position: 8Running order: 11 https://youtu.be/wfqOrMlwOjs?si=nJ0AYz6k7bLau7Sg

The Common Linnets

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersIlse DelangeWaylon Active2013-2017 Nationality Dutch National SelectionInternal selection 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongCalm After The Storm (2014) Biography The Common Linnets, a band hailing from the Netherlands, was established in 2013, initially featuring Ilse DeLange and Waylon. DeLange elucidated that the group was formed as a dynamic platform for Dutch musicians to experiment and create country, Americana, and bluegrass music. The band saw a change in lineup when Waylon departed in May 2014 and was replaced by American country artist Jake Etheridge. Their debut album, featuring the song “Calm After the Storm”, secured them a second-place finish in the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 – the best performance by the Netherlands since their victory in 1975. The band’s name draws inspiration from the regional nickname ‘heikneuters,’ attributed to individuals from the eastern part of the Netherlands, DeLange and Waylon’s birthplace. This term refers to the songbird ‘kneu’ or common linnet. Credit for this innovative name goes to Dutch designer Rens Dekker, who also designed their album and single artworks. The initial band members were individual country artists, Ilse DeLange and Waylon, with DeLange acknowledged as the founder and leading member. DeLange envisaged the band as a project to facilitate Dutch artists in their musical explorations. Since 2014, the band has been composed of Ilse DeLange, JB Meijers, Jake Etheridge, and Matthew Crosby, who along with Rob Crosby, penned the hit “Calm After The Storm”. Born on May 13, 1977, in Almelo, Netherlands, Ilse DeLange’s musical journey started at the tender age of 8. Her talents were showcased in regional and national talent shows in Hilversum, followed by a musical partnership with guitarist Joop Liefland. Waylon, born on April 20, 1980, in Apeldoorn, Netherlands, adopted his stage name in honor of his idol, Waylon Jennings. After their Eurovision success, the band embarked on a promotional tour. The noticeable absence of Waylon sparked speculations of him leaving the band. On his official Facebook page, Waylon revealed that the unexpected success of the band led him to focus on his album releasing in September 2014. JB Meijers, born on June 10, 1972, in Delft, Netherlands, joined the band after his stint with Dutch indie bands Charmin’ Children, Shine, and Supersub. Besides playing with De Dijk, Eboman, and Acda & De Munnik, he also worked as a producer. Jake Etheridge, born on April 25, 1988, in Columbia, South Carolina, joined the band post-Waylon’s departure. Before joining, he had gained recognition for his online song uploads. Matthew Crosby, born on May 21, 1981, in Columbia, South Carolina, was an accomplished actor in New York City and had previously performed with the band “The Easy Tells”. The band represented the Netherlands in the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 in Copenhagen, with the song “Calm After the Storm”. The Common Linnets won the 2014 Buma Cultuur Pop Award and the 2015 Echo Awards for Best International Newcomer Act. Their second studio album ‘II’ was released in 2015. The album became a Gold disc. In november 2015, the band toured throughout Germany and Austria. They received an award for best an award at Radio 538 for best live performance. In 2016 the band played at Eurosonic Noorderslag. They went to Sweden to perform in Douwe Bob‘s pub in Stockholm, during the Eurovision week. In June, they did a UK tour, in November they went back to Germany. Also in 2017, the band kept on performing. After that, Ilse Delange, JB Meijers and Matthew Crosby had solo projects. In 2019, Ilse Delange was a coach at the Eurovision Song Contest for Duncan Laurence, who won the contest. Entries Calm After The Storm Country🇳🇱 The Netherlands Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsIlse DelangeJB MeijersRob CrosbyMatthew CrosbyJake Etheridge MusicIlse DelangeJB MeijersRob CrosbyMatthew CrosbyJake Etheridge BackingsBart VergoossenJB MeijersMartijn Van Agt Results Semi Points: 150Position: 1Running order: 14 Results Finals Points: 238Position: 2Running order: 24 https://youtu.be/4ggBPAm5XLA

Firelight

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersMichelle MifsudRichard Edwards MicallefTony PolidanoDaniel MicallefWayne William MicallefLeslie Decesare Founded2013 Nationality🇲🇹 Maltese National SelectionMalta Eurovision Song Contest 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongComing Home (2014) Biography Firelight is a Maltese folk-pop band. Formed in 2013, Firelight consists of siblings Richard Edwards Micallef, Michelle Micallef, and Wayne Micallef, along with their friends Tony Polidano and Daniel Micallef. Richard, Michelle, and Wayne are all accomplished singers and musicians in their own right. The band’s music is a blend of pop, rock, and folk, featuring catchy melodies, rich harmonies, and a variety of instruments, including the guitar, piano, and harmonica. Richard Edwards Micallef, the lead singer and songwriter of the band, has a strong musical pedigree. His father, Paul Micallef, was a well-known Maltese singer in the 1970s and 1980s. Richard himself has a distinguished career in music; he had previously participated in the Malta Eurovision Song Contest in 2011 and 2013 as a solo artist. Their song “Coming Home”, an acoustic ballad that they performed at Eurovision 2014, was written by Richard and is about a soldier returning home from war. The song placed ninth in the semi-final and 23rd in the final. The follow up single was called “Talk dirty”, which reached the #1 spot in the Maltese charts. Their debut album “Backdrop life” was released in September, followed by a tour in Germany and Austria. In December they released a new single, “Christmas Day”. In February 2015, the band donated the appalachian dulcimer used at the Eurovision performance for charity. It was sold for €2250,-. The money went to children’s cancer support group Puttinu Care. A new single, “Backdrop of Life”, was released in March 2015. Wayne William and Richard Edwards went on with their solo carreers while the band continued performing. In July 2017, a new song “Victor The Hungarian Man” was released. After this, the band did not release any new music, but they continued performing on festivals throughout Malta. Entries Coming Home Country🇲🇹 Malta Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsRichard Edwards Micallef MusicRichard Edwards Micallef Backings– Results Semi Points: 63Position: 9Running order: 1 Results Finals Points: 32Position: 23Running order: 22 https://youtu.be/E_hT08vzHt8

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

Elaiza

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts MembersElżbieta SteinmetzNatalie PlögerYvonne Grünwald Founded2013 Nationality🇩🇪 German🇺🇦 Ukrainian National SelectionUnser Song Für Dänemark 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongIs It Right? (2014) Biography Elaiza is a German folk-pop band known for their distinctive neo-folk sound, which blends modern pop elements with traditional Eastern European folk. The band was formed in 2013 and originally consisted of three members: Elżbieta Steinmetz, Yvonne Grünwald, and Natalie Plöger. Elżbieta Steinmetz, who goes by the stage name “Ela,” is a singer and songwriter with Polish roots, a factor that heavily influences the band’s sound. Yvonne Grünwald plays the accordion, and Natalie Plöger is the contrabassist. Later on, Steinmetz and Grünwald continued as a duo, with Plöger departing the band. Elaiza’s breakthrough came in 2014 when they won the German national finals for the Eurovision Song Contest. Their song “Is It Right” represented Germany at the Eurovision Song Contest held in Copenhagen that year. The band’s performance in the international music event significantly increased their profile in Germany and Europe more broadly, leading to a successful debut album, “Gallery,” which was released the same year. Elaiza is recognized for their vibrant and energetic performances, coupled with soulful lyrics and a unique musical style that blends modern pop with traditional influences. The band’s music often explores themes of love, life, and identity, and their work is characterized by Steinmetz’s powerful vocals, Grünwald’s expert accordion work, and a strong folk-pop sound. Elaiza had released two albums, “Gallery” in 2014 and “Restless” in 2016. The 2nd album was followed by a tour through Germany. At the same time, the band released two new singles, “Hurricane” and “Real”. However, before the band went on tour, Yvonne left the band. She was replaced by Laura Zimmermann. The band kept on touring through Germany in 2017. In November of that year they won a German Songwriting Award. In 2018, they did an acoustic tour. They even performed at the German embassy in Kenya and Ethiopia. The acoustic tour continued in 2019. Although the band did not officially split up, they didn’t perform anymore since March 2019. Entries Is It Right? Country🇩🇪 Germany Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsElżbieta SteinmetzAdam Kesselhaut MusicElżbieta SteinmetzFrank Kretschmer Backings– Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 39Position: 18Running order: 12 https://youtu.be/BFuGH2Kp9dI

Litesound

About Quick Facts MembersDmitry KariakinVladimir KariakinJacopo MassaAlex KolchinIgnat Yakovich Founded2005 Nationality🇧🇾 Belarusian🇮🇹 Italian (Jacopo)🇷🇺 Russian (Alex) National SelectionEurofest 2012Eurofest 2009Eurofest 2008Eurofest 2007Eurofest 2006 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongWe Are The Heroes (2012) Biography Litesound is a Belarusian pop rock band formed in 2005 by brothers Dmitry and Vladimir Karyakin. The band’s journey began earlier, in 2002, as an acoustic duo. Their transformation into the quartet Litesound in 2005 marked the start of their notable musical career. With the addition of bassist Mario Gulinsky and drummer Sergey Genko, they won the Maiori International Music Festival in Italy in 2006, which led to a collaboration with Italian singer Jacopo Massa, eventually becoming an official member of the band. Litesound participated in various Eurofest competitions, aiming to represent Belarus in the Eurovision Song Contest. They competed in 2006 with “My Faith,” in 2008 with “Do You Believe,” and in 2009 with “Carry On.” Their debut album, “Going to Hollywood,” was released in 2010. The band’s persistence paid off in 2012 when they were chosen to represent Belarus in Eurovision with the song “We Are the Heroes,” following a voting fraud investigation in the national selection process. Subsequent years saw changes in the band’s lineup. In 2013, Alex Kolchin left, and the Doronkin brothers joined. The band released the Christmas single “Shooting Star” in 2013. In 2016, they collaborated with Moldovan singer Katherine for their fifth Eurovision attempt with the song “Imagine,” but later withdrew. In 2017, Evgeny Balchuys joined as the new bassist, and the band released “The Whole World.” Their second album, also titled “Litesound,” was released in 2018. In 2019, the band released “Champion” as the official song for the European Games in Minsk and “Fight For The Dream” for the 2020 World Junior Ice Hockey Championships. The band’s outspoken criticism of the Belarusian authorities’ handling of the coronavirus pandemic in 2020 led to repercussions, including being denied concert opportunities. The Karyakin brothers and their parents were detained in October 2022 and sentenced in March 2023 for participating in the 2020 protests. Entries We Are The Heroes Country🇧🇾 Belarus Year2012 LanguageEnglish LyricsDmitry KariakinVladimir Kariakin MusicNames BackingsAlex Panayi Results Semi Points: 35Position: 16Running order: 5 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/-JWbOKNaIAo?si=nhwOsDC05W1toVNq

Izabo

About Quick Facts MembersRan Shem TovShiri HadarJonathan LeviNir Manzur Founded1989 Nationality🇮🇱 Israeli National SelectionInternal selection 2012 In EurovisionYear City SongTime (2012) Biography Izabo was an Israeli band. Izabo was founded in Petah Tikva in 1989. Their original line-up consisted of Ran Shem Tov, Shiri Hadar, Nir Graf and Tamir Muskat. In 1994, they released their first album titled “Movie Maker”, along with three singles. This album is often omitted from Izabo’s chronology and songs from it are never played in live concerts. The band’s line-up changed following the release of the album and again in 1997, with the final line-up, which remained for 19 years, consisting of founders Shem Tov and Hadar, as well as Jonathan Levy and Nir Mantzur. Their sophomore album, “The Fun Makers”, was released in late 2003 and received highly positive critical acclaim, with the songs “Morning Hero” and “Cook Me” achieving major radio success in Israel. Several months later, Izabo signed on to Sony BMG, through which they released their British debut, “The Morning Hero EP”. The release was accompanied by a concert tour during which Izabo performed in England, Scotland and the Netherlands. Izabo collaborated with a large variety of artists, on stage and in studio, from singer-songwriter Ahuva Ozeri to choreographer Ohad Naharin. Izabo’s collaboration with Shotei Hanevuah produced the single “Hu”, which won the Music 24’s “song of the year” award. Their third LP, “Super Light”, was released in July 2008. On March 26, 2012, Izabo released an EP titled Summer Shade. The EP included the 2012 singles “Summer Shade”, “On My Way” and “I Like It”, the band’s final singles under the name Izabo. In early February it was revealed that Izabo had been chosen by a group of mass communications and music industry experts to represent Israel in the Eurovision Song Contest 2012 in Baku, Azerbaijan. The song, Time, has verses in English and choruses in Hebrew. They did not progress past the semi-final round. On May 21, 2012, they released the album “Life Is on My Side in the UK”, through 100% Records. In 2016, Nir Mantzur and Jonathan Levy left the band, and the band changed its name to Cherie and Renno. Two years later, Cherie and Renno released a self-titled album. The album is Cherie and Renno’s first album, and the fifth in the band’s history.On October 24, 2022, the band returned in it’s former line up with a comeback concert. In November of the same year they performed at the Israel Music Showcase Festival in Jerusalem. On 28 February 2023 they released a brand new single”Midnight Chains”. In May they teamed up with Ilan Peled for a new single, “Don’t Stop Til You Get Enough”…. yes, a Michael Jackson cover. Entries Time Country🇮🇱 Israeli Year2012 LanguageEnglishHebrew LyricsRan Shem TovShiri Hadar MusicRan Shem TovShiri Hadar Backings– Results Semi Points: 33Position: 13Running order: 10 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/-uy4ggnLzKI?si=VqmK1KMNcnOBJAsR