Once again we have a new ESC Insight newsletter for our readers. Each week the Newsletter reviews the latest Eurovision news and gives some comments and opinions as to what happens in the world of the Eurovision Song Contest. Read the latest edition here.
This week we have all the background to the songs selected for this year’s competition so far with news of scandals in Germany and artist announcements in Australia and many different things in between. The Newsletter also has the views of our editor Ben Robertson, this week discussing the fan drama of hatred spouted at many songs, and reminding us why it isn’t the worst Eurovision, yet.
Having 14 songs left to go means that there is still plenty of chance that we can find our favourite songs coming up to compete in Eurovision 2015. In that list we have big names such as Norway, Sweden, Azerbaijan and Russia all coming up with the goods once again we would all expect. We have to hear Montenegro’s song composed by Zeljko Joksimovic and the fascination of what appears to be a serious attempt from Australia.
However this is the time of the year when those statements of it being the worst Eurovision year ever spring up. When us fans despair at the quality of songs and question why we even like this charade.
Firstly let me remind you that we have our fondest memories of the best Eurovision songs. Those that got us to dance uncontrollably or made us cry with emotion. Only a handful will ever get that kind of effect, but in this part of the season we associate Eurovision with those songs we find revolting, asking each other how on Earth did they think this would be good enough to go through. These moments of madness happen every season, with Eurovision seemingly reaching brand new lows. I feel it as well, but in reality the Song Contest is moving onwards and upwards as a spectacle and a show and, I believe, as a competition of new song. Base your beliefs on the sum of all components, not just how bad the song from your totemic country is.
You can read the Eurovision views of Ben Robertson and the rest of the newsletter each week from now until Vienna. Become one of our new subscribers today by clicking through this link and get the newsletter directly sent to your inbox. To view this week’s edition again just click here.
I going to disagree with Ben in that this is year could possibly change. I think as you look around Europe selection processes have thrown up some very good competent songs, that are just plain boring.
Will it look good in May – Yes, Will be a good Eurovision – No. The lack of variety between songs and the absence of one, two or three clear favourites thus far is disappointing. (Does anyone really believe Italy can win in a ballad heavy year?).
With just 10 countries left to pick their songs Sweden possibly have a very strong selection, as do Norway. Russia also remains the only clear country that has the fire power to produce a potential winner.
I think the highlight of this year will be there’s a massive chance of a surprise winner in May.