The Eurovision Song Contest is back in spectacular form! It will include 37 spectacular, colorful entries from all over Europe – an amazing display of musical talent. The Grand Final will be held in Basel, Switzerland, on Saturday, May 17. It’s shaping up to be a thrilling mix of genres and themes! Among this year’s unusual roster are a professional opera singer and two former contestants that have reentered the competition. It’s delivered some pretty compelling lyrical storylines, like a posthumous dance hit for a space dog with subtle allusions to freaky sex stuff.
Estonia’s entry, “Espresso Macchiato,” mixes euro-pop cultural allusions with a bouncy hook. It’s a lively tribute to modern coffee culture that may just suggest some of the darker, more existential themes lurking below its cheerful veneer. Belgium’s contribution comes in the form of Red Sebastian, named after the iconic crab from Disney’s “The Little Mermaid.” The LGBTQ element, inclusion language, and overall vibe of the song convey just that fantastical spirit, representing the artistically crazy magic that is Eurovision!
Luxembourg’s Laura Thorn presents her entry, [La Poupée Monte Le Son], which pays homage to France Gall’s 1965 winning song, [Poupée De Cire, Poupée De Son]. This retro-inspired return bridges old school pop charm with newfound confidence. Thorn’s words are as fierce as they are clear, and they cut to the core of her art.
“If you think a man like you can manipulate me, go back to your mum.” – Laura Thorn
Israel then runs up the competition’s depth, with Yuval Raphael forgoing traditional artsy oomph for gut-puncher poignancy in [New Day Will Rise]. On this melancholy piano ballad, Chava interlaces English, French and Hebrew artfully juxtaposing faith with disillusionment and despair with hope. The emotional weight of her performance is underscored by her personal experiences, having narrowly escaped a tragedy during the 2023 Nova music festival.
Greece’s entry, [Asteromáta], is dense with allusions to history and stirs up questions of memory. The complexity of its story makes it a standout in an awards race frequently dominated by more whimsical work. Meanwhile, Portugal’s independent band Napa channels the spirit of Paul McCartney’s Wings with their soft rock tear-jerker [Deslocado], stirring emotional responses among listeners.
Ukraine makes it three for three, as Leleka Tones‘ Ziferblat is sure to take listeners by storm with its unconventional sound and fascinating combination of rhythms. Azerbaijan’s Mamagama adds some smooth pop vibes with [Run With U] The track opens with a twinkling saz riff, a nod to the various sounds from across the globe that appeared in this year’s contest.
Italy’s Lucio Corsi goes full-on glam rock on his mellow ballad [Volevo Essere Un Duro]. Yet his light touch serves to convey deep messages and provide wisdom by presenting life’s pains with a sense of humor and humanity.
“Instead of a star, I’m just a sneeze.” – Lucio Corsi
Polish singer Justyna Steczkowska casts a Slavic aro magic spell in her song [Gaja]. This magical ingredient of Eurovision is what further showcases the beautiful cultural tapestry that exists at Eurovision. Mariam Shengelia of Georgia defends her song, “Freedom.” In a daring critique of modern feminism, the track fearlessly addresses themes of autonomy and decision along with the ensuing backlash of hypocrisy claims.
“Where no words are needed to feel the connection / Where clocks never tick and where love is the ending.” – Red Sebastian
The pieces are divided up by musical style, creating a lovely variegated concert that makes for dramatic storytelling listening experience. Each song is a gem in its own right, a revelation of the creativity and talent of the performers and their undiscovered stories. The competition not only celebrates music but serves as a platform for artists to express cultural identity and personal narratives.
As the contestants get ready for the Grand Final in Basel, excitement grows among fans and competitors to be.
“When she read her diagnosis, our world turned upside down and I felt that rush of blood in my head, the same one I feel whenever I am upside down in the performance.” – Klemen Slakonja
Whatever the final results may be, this year’s Eurovision is sure to provide some showstopping performances that connect with listeners both emotionally and physically. The anticipation surrounding each entry underscores the event’s significance as a cultural phenomenon that unites nations through music.
“Life is like spaghetti, it’s hard until you make it.” – Tommy Cash
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