United Kingdom

UEFA 2020: DAY 8

The European Soccer Championship has already reached it’s 8th day. Today, we will see three other matches. To start with Sweden-Slovakia. What we found was a couple of mystical songs. Sweden once sent the group One More Time to the contest with the song “Den vilda”. One of the members of One More Time was Peter Grönvall, the son of Abba’s Benny Andersson. Another one, his wife Nanne Grönvall, is still very famous in Sweden. For Slovakia we chose a song about the beautiful area of Horehronie in Slovakia. The song, which was also called “Horehronie”, was sung by Kristina and hit the number one spot in the Slovak charts. Croatia and Czech Republic will play against eachother. Girls in not too much clothes! That is what brings those two countries together. We thought about Albina, who represented Croatia this year. We also thought about Tereza Kerndlová, who sang “Have some fun” in 2008. And the last match for today is the one between England and Scotland. That made us bring up two ladies, who both earned the trophy for the United Kingdom. Who remembers Sandie Shaw, barefoot, back in 1967? And who remembers Lulu, with false eyelashes and dressed in pink, yelling “Olé!” at the end of the song? Sandie was English, Lulu was Scottish.

Road to Rotterdam: United Kingdom

James Newman was supposed to represent the United Kingdom last year with the song “My last breath”. The BBC was silent for a long time, but eventually announced that he will represent the UK with “Embers” this year. At that time Newman had already had a big international hit with “Therapy”, a song by Armin van Buuren on which Newman provided the vocals. James is also the older brother of John Newman, for whom he also wrote songs. He also did that for Rudimental, Calvin Harris, Little Mix and the Backstreet Boys, among others. So it is not exactly a ‘nobody’ who represents the UK.

James Newman

© EBU/Thomas Hanses About Quick Facts NameJames Richard Newman Born19 October 1985 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal Selection In EurovisionRotterdam 2020 (Cancelled)Rotterdam 2021 SongMy Last Breath (2020)Embers (2021) Biography James Newman is a London-born British singer and songwriter. In 2014, he won a Brit Award for British Single of the Year as a co-writer for “Waiting all night”, a song performed by Rudimental. He also wrote for artists like Calvin Harris, Little Mix, Ed Sheeran, Foxes, Matoma, Digital Farm Animals, Daya and Louis Tomlison, while he was featured in several hits himself. The most successfull one was “Therapy” by Armin van Buuren. In 2017 he co-wrote the Irish entry for the Eurovision Song Contest, “Dying to try” for Brendan Murray. In 2020 he was supposed to represent the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “My last breath”. However, due to cancellation of the contest it didn’t happen. BBC however invited him to represent the UK in 2021 with the song “Embers”, which sadly did not receive any points at all at the Eurovision Song Contest. Entries Embers Country United Kingdom Year2021 LanguageEnglish Lyrics & MusicJames NewmanConor BlakeDanny ShahTom HollingsSamuel Brennan BackingsAnnabel Williams DancersIsrael DonowaShaun NilesYves CueniAlex Chambers Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 0Position: 26Running order: 9 https://youtu.be/VxNOynEJ6wc My last breath Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2020 LanguageEnglish Lyrics & MusicJames NewmanAdam ArgyleEd DrewettIain James Backings– Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: –Position: –Running order: – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6iS-lV909T4

Jade Ewen

About Quick Facts NameJade Louise Ewen Born24 January 1988 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionEurovision: Your Country Needs You 2009 In Eurovision2009 Moscow SongIt’s My Time (2009) Biography Jade Louise Ewen, born on 24 January 1988, is a talented British singer and actress who gained fame as a member of the girl group Sugababes. Her career has taken her from the pop music scene to the stages of London’s West End, showcasing her versatility and talent. Early Life Jade Ewen was born in Plaistow, London, to Trevor and Carol Ewen. Her father is Scottish with Italian ancestry, and her mother is Jamaican. Both of her parents have disabilities; her father is blind and partially deaf, while her mother is visually impaired. Because of her parents’ disabilities, Jade has been a caregiver to them and her two younger siblings, Shereen and Kiel, from a young age. Jade’s passion for music and performance was evident early on. She began singing and taking dance classes before the age of four. She attended Brampton Manor Academy before earning a scholarship to the prestigious Sylvia Young Theatre School (SYTS). While at SYTS, Jade appeared in several television productions, including “The Bill,” “Casualty,” “Mr. Harvey Lights a Candle,” and “The Ghost Hunter.” At ten, she auditioned for and landed the role of Young Nala in the West End production of “The Lion King.” Early Career and Eurovision (2002–2009) Jade’s early career included appearances in children’s dance DVDs and music videos, such as Busted’s “What I Go to School For.” In 2005, she joined the girl group Trinity Stone, which signed with Sony BMG but disbanded in 2007 without releasing an album. Jade continued to pursue her music career, recording with rapper Kwamé and releasing a digital single, “Got You,” in 2008. In January 2009, Jade was selected to represent the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “It’s My Time,” written by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Diane Warren. She finished in fifth place, the UK’s highest placing at Eurovision from 2002 until 2022. This performance brought her significant recognition and led to a contract with Polydor Records. Joining Sugababes (2009–2011) In September 2009, Jade joined the well-known girl group Sugababes, replacing Keisha Buchanan. Although her single “My Man” was released around the same time, promotional activities were canceled due to her new commitment to the group. Despite this, “My Man” reached number 35 on the UK Singles Chart. Jade quickly integrated into the group, recording and promoting new music. The Sugababes’ single “About a Girl” debuted at number eight in the UK, and their album “Sweet 7” reached number 14 on the UK Albums Chart. Another single, “Wear My Kiss,” peaked at number seven in the UK. In 2010, Jade became the face of Miss Ultimo lingerie and continued to work with the Sugababes on new music. However, by 2011, the group had left their record label and signed a new deal with Sony Music’s RCA Records. They released a promotional single, “Freedom,” but it was offered for free and did not chart. West End and Acting Career (2013–Present) After her time with Sugababes, Jade shifted her focus to acting and musical theatre. In 2014, she played Clara in the Regent’s Park Open Air Theatre production of “Porgy and Bess,” receiving positive reviews for her performance. She was cast in the lead role for “Godspell” in 2015 but had to withdraw due to illness. In September 2015, Jade made her West End debut in “In the Heights,” playing Vanessa. Her performance was well-received, and she continued to showcase her talent on stage. In November 2015, she was cast as Princess Jasmine in Disney’s “Aladdin” at the Prince Edward Theatre. However, she later sued Disney, alleging damage to her voice from having to sing too loudly during performances. Television and Film Jade has also made various television appearances, including roles in “Casualty,” in 2015, “Tracey Ullman’s Show in 2016,” “Lovesick,” in 2018 and “Luis Miguel: The Series.” in 2021. She played Mariah Carey in the latter. Entries It’s My Time Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2009 LanguageEnglish LyricsAndrew Lloyd WebberDiane Warren MusicAndrew Lloyd WebberDiane Warren BackingsRustom PomeroyAndrew Lloyd Webber??? Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 173Position: 5Running order: 23 https://youtu.be/-GwOojK3VRU?si=r2IICAQLrf9pe2le

Josh Dubovie

About Quick Facts NameJosh James Dubovie Born27 November 1990 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionEurovision: Your Country Needs You 2010 In Eurovision2010 Oslo SongThat Sounds Good To Me Biography Josh James Dubovie, born on 27 November 1990, embarked on his journey into music and performance at a young age. From the age of nine, he was a member of StageAbility, an after-school stage club based in Laindon. His passion for the stage further blossomed at 15 when he played Enjolras in a school production of Les Misérables with the Essex Group, despite having no prior singing experience. To prepare for this role, Dubovie sought guidance from a vocal coach. Throughout his schooling at The Billericay School, Dubovie pursued A levels in Music Technology, Drama, and English Literature. His talent was recognized early on as he won the Blues Idol competition in 2008, along with Voice of St. Luke’s contest and Billericay’s Got Talent. Before stepping onto the Eurovision stage, Dubovie showed an interest in acting by applying for a part in the E4 TV series Skins 3rd series, where he was short-listed for the role of Freddie Mclair. After leaving school, Dubovie’s professional career took a significant turn when his father, Richard, decided to manage him, securing the majority of his professional gigs. Dubovie’s most notable achievement came in 2010 when he won the UK national selection competition Eurovision: Your Country Needs You! with “That Sounds Good to Me” on 12 March, a song by Mike Stock, Pete Waterman, and Steve Crosby. His victory marked his participation in the Eurovision Song Contest held in Oslo, Norway, in May 2010, where, despite his efforts, he finished last. Following his Eurovision experience, Dubovie appeared in various performances and charity events. In July 2010, he was part of the ‘Proms in the Park’ show at Billericay and performed alongside celebrities in a fundraising event for St. Francis’ Hospice in September. His contributions to local charities led to his appointment as the celebrity patron of St. Luke’s Hospice in Basildon. In December 2010, Dubovie starred as Aladdin in the pantomime at Lighthouse Theatre, Kettering. 2011 was a busy year for Dubovie, beginning with a performance for the OGAE in Munich in January. He released his first album Carpe Diem under Pure Music LTD in February, followed by a performance for the Queen’s Royal Lancers. His participation in various events continued throughout the year, including performing at the Birmingham Gay Pride Ball, Stockholm Pride Gala, and headlining at a Help for Heroes charity concert. In 2012, Dubovie’s Eurovision legacy was celebrated at ‘Eurovision Reunited’ concert at The Sage, Gateshead, where he performed alongside past Eurovision competitors. 2013 marked a significant shift in Dubovie’s career as he rebranded himself as ‘Josh James’, transitioning his musical style towards RnB and Dance to align with mainstream music trends. This decision was driven by the desire to move beyond his Eurovision identity, as searches for “Josh Dubovie” predominantly returned Eurovision-related results. His debut song as Josh James, “Game Over,” was released in March, with the music video following in July. In addition to his musical endeavors, Dubovie engaged in media work, hosting the ESC News 2013 ‘Heart Campaign’, showcasing new and past Eurovision talent, further establishing his versatility within the entertainment industry. In December he played one of the main roles in the musical Sleeping Beauty in Theatre Severn in Shrewsbury. From April until October 2014, Josh James performed on a cruise. In December of that year, he performed in Sleeping Beauty again. In 2016, Josh moved to Canada. He started the YouTube chanel You&Me with his girlfriend Megan. In June 2019, Josh started as a mindset coach. He also started a podcast, the MEGA (Make Earth Great Again) podcast. In August, he did a Q&A about his 2010 Eurovision experience. In May 2022, he recontinued his MEGA podcasts. Entries That Sounds Good To Me Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2010 LanguageEnglish LyricsMike StockSteve CrosbyPete Waterman MusicMike StockSteve CrosbyPete Waterman BackingsSuzanne CarleyJoanna BrehenyKirsten Joy DancersCiaran ConnollyFilippo Calvagno Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 10Position: 25Running order: 12 https://youtu.be/Nro3hlemmho?si=kp0u3nyhGdXlZMLr

Molly Smitten-Downes

About Quick Facts NameMolly Alice Smitten-Downes Born02 April 1987 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal selection 2014 In Eurovision2014 Copenhagen SongChildren Of The Universe (2014) Biography Molly Alice Smitten-Downes, simply known as Molly, is a British singer-songwriter, born on April 2, 1987. Molly’s early life was spent in Anstey, Leicestershire, but she was raised in Rothley and attended Our Lady’s Convent School in Loughborough. Her first stage performances started when she was only eight years old. She pursued her interest in music by studying at Leicester College and the Academy of Contemporary Music in Guildford, Surrey. She was associated with the British electronic music ensemble, Stunt. Their collaboration with Sash!, “Raindrops (Encore une fois)”, a mashup of “Raindrops” and “Encore une fois”, earned them recognition in 2008. Molly collaborated with Basshunter, a Swedish producer and singer/songwriter in 2009 for “I Will Learn to Love Again,” which features in his second UK album, Bass Generation. Molly released her acoustic EP, “Fly Away with Me”, on 18 December 2011. Grime artist Marger sampled one of its tracks, “Shadows,” which was subsequently released on iTunes through 360 Records. Her collaborations with Swedish producer Anders Hansson (“Beneath The Lights”) and producer Darren Styles (“Never Forget”) were launched in April 2013 and recorded in 2012 respectively. Molly was honored with the Best Urban/Pop Act at Live and Unsigned in 2012 and won Best Song at the Best of British Unsigned Music Awards in 2013. After earning recognition from BBC Introducing, Molly was approached by Guy Freeman, the executive producer and head of delegation of Eurovision for the BBC. Initially skeptical, she eventually agreed to the proposal of performing a self-composed work on a global platform. On March 3, 2014, Molly’s selection to represent the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest 2014 with “Children of the Universe” was announced by the BBC. Molly authored the song, expressing her desire to create music that “dissolves political barriers”. Prior to the contest, she signed a record contract with Warner Music UK on April 1, 2014, and announced the release of “Children of the Universe” on April 28, 2014. Despite being one of the favorites, Molly finished 17th in the Eurovision final on May 10, 2014. Molly was invited to perform at the Glastonbury Festival on June 27, 2014. She was also recognized for her musical achievements at Leicester College with an honorary award on November 1, 2014, where she had completed a performing musician course in 2002. The next year, she collaborated with German DJ and producer Zwette for the track “Rush”, released by Spinnin’ Records and remixed by Sam Feldt. “Beneath the Lights” from her album was sampled by Kanye West’s producer Hudson Mohawke for “Shadows”. She performed at a concert named Laid Bare. She published an acoustic live performance of a new song called “Aeroplane”. After this, she kept on writing songs. In June 2019 she was part of a musical project under the name of Pages. They released an EP called “Beautiful weirdo”. In July 2021 Molly released a new solo song, “Who are you”. Entries Children Of The Universe Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2014 LanguageEnglish LyricsMolly Smitten-DownesAnders Hansson MusicMolly Smitten-DownesAnders Hansson BackingsVictoria BeaumontKatie HolmesLincoln Jean-MarieSharleen LintonJoe Yoshida (drums) Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 40Position: 17Running order: 26 https://youtu.be/C6w7tmWvm6M

Engelbert Humperdinck

About Quick Facts NameArnold George Dorsey Born02 May 1936 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal selection 2012 In Eurovision2012 Baku SongLove Will Set You Free (2012) Biography Engelbert is an English pop singer. Born in 1936, in Madras, British India (now Chennai, India), Arnold George Dorsey was one of ten children in a British Army family. The family relocated to Leicester, England, in 1946, where Arnold’s love for music began to blossom. Influenced by singers like Al Jolson and Frank Sinatra, Arnold started practicing the saxophone and playing in local clubs. In the early 1960s, Arnold teamed up with his roommate and fellow musician, Gordon Mills, who became his manager. Mills convinced Arnold to change his name to Engelbert Humperdinck, borrowing the name from the 19th-century German composer. The new moniker proved to be a stroke of genius, piquing public interest and setting the stage for a breakthrough. Engelbert’s career took off in 1967 with his hit single “Release Me,” which reached number one in the UK and number four in the US. The song famously prevented The Beatles’ “Penny Lane” / “Strawberry Fields Forever” from claiming the top spot. As a result, Engelbert quickly gained international fame, following up with more hits like “There Goes My Everything,” “The Last Waltz,” and “Am I That Easy to Forget.” Throughout the 1970s and 1980s, Engelbert expanded his career to include television and film. His TV show, “The Engelbert Humperdinck Show,” brought his music to a broader audience. He also appeared in a few films, including “The Love Machine” (1971) and “The Great American Traffic Jam” (1980). In 2012 Engelbert Humperdinck represented the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest. It was not a success, because he ended up in 25th position with only one point. Despite his professional success, Engelbert faced personal challenges. His marriage to Patricia Healey endured infidelity and the stress of fame, but they remained together until her death in 2021. Engelbert also struggled with financial setbacks, eventually declaring bankruptcy in 1985. However, he persevered, continuing to tour and release new music. With a career spanning over 50 years, Engelbert Humperdinck has left an indelible mark on the music industry. Though he never won a Grammy Award, his contributions to popular music have earned him a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame and a place in the hearts of fans around the world. Entries Love Will Set You Free Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2012 LanguageEnglish LyricsMartin TerefeSacha Skarbek MusicMartin TerefeSacha Skarbek BackingsJames Bryan DancersBethany-Rose HarrisonShem Jacobs Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 12Position: 25Running order: 1 https://youtu.be/rXw4Q5jbNqQ?si=-S0QNUQ0teYAXuRj

Blue

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

Bonnie Tyler

© Albin Olsson About Quick Facts NameGaynor Hopkins Born08 June 1951 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal selection 2013 In Eurovision2013 Malmö SongBelieve In Me (2013) Biography Born Gaynor Hopkins on June 8, 1951, in Skewen, Wales, Bonnie Tyler would grow up to become one of the most recognizable voices in rock and pop music. With a distinct raspy vocal quality, likened to a “female Rod Stewart,” and powerful anthems, she forged a music career that spanned decades and earned her worldwide acclaim. Growing up as the daughter of a coal miner and sharing the house with three sisters and two brothers, Bonnie’s musical journey began in the church choir. Her early musical taste was influenced by the soulful sounds of Motown and artists like Janis Joplin. In the late 1960s, she started performing in local pubs and clubs in South Wales. By her late teens, Bonnie knew that she wanted to take her passion for singing to a professional level. In 1976, after several rejections and minor breakthroughs, Bonnie Tyler was thrust into the limelight with her hit “Lost in France.” But it was her 1977 song “It’s a Heartache” that made her an international sensation, reaching the top 10 in both the U.S. and UK. However, the late 1970s and early 1980s marked a challenging period for Bonnie. After undergoing surgery to remove nodules from her vocal cords, her voice deepened, intensifying its gritty texture. Rather than seeing it as a setback, Bonnie embraced her new sound, making it her signature. In 1983, she collaborated with Jim Steinman, who wrote and produced her seminal album, “Faster Than the Speed of Night.” The album featured the unforgettable track “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” which skyrocketed to No. 1 in multiple countries, solidifying Bonnie Tyler’s position as a rock icon. In 1984 she had another massive hit with “A Rockin’ Good Way”, a duet with Shakin’ Stevens, followed by a new solo single “Holding out a hero”. Both songs were #1 hits in Ireland. Despite the massive success of “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” the late 1980s saw a waning in Tyler’s chart performance. However, her song “Bitter blue” became a hit in several countries in 1991. A year later she had a massive hit in Norway with “Fools lullaby”. In 2003, Bonnie Tyler made a comeback with a French version of “Total Eclyps”, “Si Demain (Turn Around)”. The song reached the #1 spot in the French charts and became a hit in Switzerland as well. In 2013, Bonnie Tyler made headlines again when she represented the UK at the Eurovision Song Contest with “Believe in Me.” She reached a 19th place with the song in the Grand Final. In Marc 2019, her album “Between The Earth And The Stars” had already claimed the 34th spot on the UK Albums Chart. The album boasted collaborations with music icons: Rod Stewart, Francis Rossi, and Cliff Richard. She immediately kicked off a 23-show European tour in April. December of the same year saw Tyler revamp her 2005 track, “Streets of Stone,” aligning with The World’s Big Sleep Out’s charitable cause. The year 2020 wasn’t without its surprises. Collaborating with Lorraine Crosby, Tyler launched “Through Thick and Thin (I’ll Stand by You)” to aid the Teenage Cancer Trust. The track found its place at number 64 on the UK Downloads Chart. By February 2021, she graced her fans with another masterpiece: “The Best Is Yet to Come.” Fast forward to September 2022, Tyler, alongside Mike Batt, reintroduced “Into the Sunset”—a track once featured in the 1990’s “The Dreamstone” soundtrack. In October, she joined forces with the cast of Tanz der Vampire in Stuttgart, celebrating the musical’s silver anniversary with a live rendition of her iconic “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” For the first time, she embarked on a South American tour, including eight shows in Brazil and a notable performance in Uruguay. Entries Song Title Country🇸🇲 Country Yearyear Language🇬🇧 English LyricsNames MusicNames Backings– Results Semi Points:Position:Running order: Results Finals Points:Position:Running order: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRAN7AzEKak © About Quick Facts NameName Born01 month 1900 Nationality🇮🇹 Nationality National SelectionSelection Method In EurovisionYear City SongSong (Year) Biography Born Gaynor Hopkins on June 8, 1951, in Skewen, Wales, Bonnie Tyler would grow up to become one of the most recognizable voices in rock and pop music. With a distinct raspy vocal quality, likened to a “female Rod Stewart,” and powerful anthems, she forged a music career that spanned decades and earned her worldwide acclaim. Growing up as the daughter of a coal miner and sharing the house with three sisters and two brothers, Bonnie’s musical journey began in the church choir. Her early musical taste was influenced by the soulful sounds of Motown and artists like Janis Joplin. In the late 1960s, she started performing in local pubs and clubs in South Wales. By her late teens, Bonnie knew that she wanted to take her passion for singing to a professional level. In 1976, after several rejections and minor breakthroughs, Bonnie Tyler was thrust into the limelight with her hit “Lost in France.” But it was her 1977 song “It’s a Heartache” that made her an international sensation, reaching the top 10 in both the U.S. and UK. However, the late 1970s and early 1980s marked a challenging period for Bonnie. After undergoing surgery to remove nodules from her vocal cords, her voice deepened, intensifying its gritty texture. Rather than seeing it as a setback, Bonnie embraced her new sound, making it her signature. In 1983, she collaborated with Jim Steinman, who wrote and produced her seminal album, “Faster Than the Speed of Night.” The album featured the unforgettable track “Total Eclipse of the Heart,” which skyrocketed to No. 1 in multiple countries, solidifying Bonnie Tyler’s position as a rock icon. In 1984 she had another massive hit with “A Rockin’ Good Way”, a duet with Shakin’ Stevens, followed by a new solo single “Holding out a hero”. Both songs were #1 hits in Ireland. Despite the massive success of “Total

Electro Velvet

© EBU/Andres Putting About Quick Facts MembersAlex LarkeBianca Nicholas Active2014-2015, 2018 Nationality🇬🇧 British National SelectionInternal selection 2015 In Eurovision2015 Vienna SongStill In Love With You Biography Electro Velvet were a British musical duo. The duo existed of Bianca Nicholas and Alex Larke. Bianca Nicholas has appeared on popular TV shows like The X Factor and The Voice UK. She has had notable performances, including singing a duet with Will Young and performing in front of Prince William, Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, and Prince Harry. In 2011, Nicholas released a single called “Hold On To Your Dreams,” which made it onto the UK Top 100 singles chart. Additionally, she had a small role in the 1999 film Sleepy Hollow with Johnny Depp. It’s worth noting that Nicholas suffers from cystic fibrosis. Larke, on the other hand, was born in Welwyn Garden City. He currently serves as the lead singer for The Rolling Stones tribute group called The Rolling Clones and has toured extensively with the band in the UK and internationally. Larke has collaborated with notable artists like Cut La Roc and Donald D on their album Larger Than Life, which also features Gary Lightbody, the frontman of Snow Patrol. Apart from his music career, Larke works part-time in a primary school and teaches ukulele and recorder. In the past, he worked in a special needs school, focusing on children and young adults with profound to severe learning difficulties. Regarding their participation in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2015, Electro Velvet was chosen by the BBC to represent the United Kingdom with their song “Still in Love with You.” The song received mixed to negative reviews upon its announcement. In the contest, they received 5 points and ranked 24th out of 27 participants. Following their Eurovision experience, Electro Velvet expressed gratitude to their fans on their official Facebook page and hinted at upcoming plans. However, their debut EP, which was scheduled for release and available for pre-order on PledgeMusic, was ultimately canceled due to Nicholas’ ongoing health issues. After a pause of three years, Electro Velvet went back to the studio in 2018 to record a new song, “Take me home”. However, the song did not know any follow up. Entries Still In Love With You Country🇬🇧 United Kingdom Year2015 LanguageEnglish LyricsDavid MindelAdrian Bax White MusicDavid MindelAdrian Bax White BackingsScarlette DouglasJoe HuntSophie Carmen JonesRyan Heseltine Results Semi Points: –Position: –Running order: – Results Finals Points: 5Position: 24Running order: 5 https://youtu.be/Ethyx4A5ajM