Groups

Lighthouse X

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersSøren BregendalJohannes NymarkMartin Skriver Active2012 – 2016 Nationality🇩🇰 Danish National SelectionDansk Melodi Grand Prix 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongSoldiers Of Love (2016) Biography Founded in 2012, Lighthouse X (pronounced as Lighthouse Ten) was a Danish pop group consisting of Søren Bregendal, Martin Skriver, and Johannes Nymark, who were not only singers but also actors. The main objective of the group was to provide support to children and young people facing difficult circumstances. They achieved this by establishing close collaborations with organizations such as “Børnehjertefonden” (Children’s Heart Foundation), “Julemærkefonden” (Christmas Seal Foundation), and “Børn, Unge og Sorg” (Children, Youth, and Grief). In February 2015, the band released their EP titled “Lighthouse X” and followed up with the English-language single “It’s A Brand New Day” in August of the same year. Lighthouse X participated in the Danish Melodi Grand Prix 2016 and emerged as the winners with their song “Soldiers of Love.” They secured 42% of the votes in the final, surpassing Anja Nissen and Simone. Consequently, they represented Denmark in the Eurovision Song Contest 2016 held in Stockholm. However, they did not manage to qualify for the final stage of the competition. On August 15, 2016, the group announced their decision to disband. Their final performance took place on August 17 during Copenhagen Pride. Entries Soldiers Of Love Country🇩🇰 Denmark Year2016 LanguageEnglish LyricsSebastian F. OvensDaniel Lund JørgensenKatrine Klith AndersenLighthouse X MusicSebastian F. OvensDaniel Lund JørgensenKatrine Klith AndersenLighthouse X BackingsChristoffer BrodersenSøren OkholmAnders Ørsager Results Semi Points: 34Position: 17Running order: 13 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/jGz12i-wGd0

Witloof Bay

About Quick Facts MembersSenjka Danhieux (RoxorLoops)Etienne DebaisieuxBenoît GiauxNicolas DorianFlorence HubyAlexia Saffery Active2005- Nationality🇧🇪 Belgium National SelectionEurovision 2011: Qui? A vous de choisir! In Eurovision2011 Düsseldorf SongWith Love Baby (2011) Biography Witloof Bay is a Belgian a cappella group. In 2005, a group of six friends united by their passion for jazz, pop, a cappella, and beatboxing formed a musical ensemble. Drawing inspiration from influential groups like The Real Group, Take 6, The Swingle Singers, and The Singers Unlimited, they began performing together. The band showcases versatility by singing in both English and French, appealing to a diverse audience. The members of the band hail from various regions across Belgium – Wallonia, Flanders, and Brussels – embodying a true representation of the country’s rich cultural tapestry. One of the members, RoxorLoops, was also a member of Beatoxic, who took part in the Belgian national final for the 2006 Eurovision Song Contest. Their debut, self-titled album was released in 2008, marking their official entry into the music scene. A significant milestone for the group came on February 12, 2011, when Witloof Bay was chosen to represent Belgium at the Eurovision Song Contest 2011. Despite their unique performance, the group narrowly missed a spot in the final, falling short by just one point. Their song, “With love baby” reached the Wallon Ultratop. The group was also able to perform in Germany, Finland, Argentina, Luxembourg, Estonia and France. In 2012, the band was nominated for an award for best live performance at D6Bels. Performances continued, of course in Belgium but also in The Netherlands, Italy, France and Germany. In March 2013, the band was able to perform in Bogota, Bolivia. In June of that year, they released the video of a new song, “Elle s’en va”, written and composed by Nicolas Dorian. A month later, they performed in Canada and Taiwan. In October, they started a new show called “Show B”. It was in January 2015 when Witloof Bay made its debut in Poland. In May, Nicolas Dorian was a backing vocal in the Eurovision Song Contest with Loïc Nottet. After a 6 months break, they started performing again in January 2016, although just occasionally. The members of Witloof Bay started their own projects. RoxorLoops took part in Dansk Melodi Grand Prix 2020, the Danish national final for Eurovision, in collaboration with Jasmine Rose. They performed the song “Human”. Entries With Love Baby Country🇧🇪 Belgium Year2011 LanguageEnglish LyricsRoxorLoopsBenoît Giaux MusicRoxorLoopsBenoît Giaux Backings– Results Semi Points: 53Position: 11Running order: 4 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/22xexkRESXw?si=SeZEhVX3FihaQRBr

3JS

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

Homens da luta

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

Highway

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

Yüksek Sadakat

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

Eldrine

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

Argo

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts MembersChristina LachanaMaria VenetikidouVladimiros SofianidisKostas TopouzisIlias KezidisElekos Papadopoulos Founded2001 Nationality🇬🇷 Greece National SelectionInternal selection 2016 In Eurovision2016 Stockholm SongUtopian Land (2016) Biography The Argo (formerly known as Europond) is a Greek band. They represented Greece in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2016 in Stockholm, Sweden, with the song “Utopian Land.” They competed in the first semi-final on May 10th but failed to qualify for the final. This was the first time since the introduction of the semi-finals in 2004 that Greece did not manage to qualify for the final. The six members of the band are: Christina Lachana on vocals, Maria Venetikidou also on vocals, Vladimiros Sofianidis on vocals, Kostas Topouzis on the Pontian lyra, Elias Kesidis on percussion, and Alekos Papadopoulos on the davul. Before the contest, the band was known as Europond, but the name was changed for the purposes of the competition. Argo embodies a dynamic fusion, bringing together highly skilled music artists with notable educational backgrounds and impressive accomplishments, alongside passionate self-taught performers who channel their intense personal experiences to create impactful music. The band finds its main inspiration in hip-hop sounds, yet their compositions also incorporate resonances of folklore, particularly Pontian tunes, and traditional instruments like the lyre, which hold a significant place in the ancestral heritage of most band members. After the Eurovision Song Contest, Argo released a new video in September 2016, “Pame”. The song was followed by “Opos estroses na koimitheis” in April 2017. Entries Utopian Land Country🇬🇷 Greece Year2016 LanguagePontic GreekGreekEnglish LyricsVladimiros Sofianidis MusicVladimiros Sofianidis Backings– Results Semi Points: 44Position: 16Running order: 2 Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://youtu.be/55ubbjAzwYA

Nika Kocharov & Young Georgian Lolitaz

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

Sjonni’s friends

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