The 69th Eurovision Song Contest is in full swing in Basel, Switzerland, attracting fans globally to support their favorite performers. This year’s grand final features 26 acts, including those who qualified through semifinals, the host country Switzerland, and the “Big Five”—France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and the UK—who automatically advance due to their substantial financial contributions.
Eurovision has become a cultural phenomenon, akin to the Super Bowl in the U.S., with fans celebrating at the Eurovision Village and EuroClub, where they enjoy music and party late into the night. The grand final airs on Peacock at 3 p.m. ET on Saturday, with voting open to audiences worldwide via an app or online platform.
Favorites this year include Sweden’s KAJ with “Bara Bada Bastu,” an homage to sauna culture that features a visually striking stage setup. Austria’s JJ and the Netherlands’ Claude are also top contenders, with Claude’s bilingual song “C’est La Vie” gaining immense popularity on streaming platforms.
Eurovision entries span many genres and often feature extravagant performances; notable acts include Iceland’s Væb and Finland’s Erika Vikman, known for their unique visuals and dramatic staging. However, not every entry advanced, like the Irish song imagining a dancing Laika in space.
Tensions arise with controversies surrounding Israel’s participation amid ongoing geopolitical issues and changes to lyrics deemed offensive, such as those from Malta and Estonia. Additionally, speculation surrounds a possible surprise appearance by Céline Dion, who expressed a desire to participate despite health challenges.
Overall, Eurovision remains a vibrant celebration of music and cultural diversity, navigating both artistic expression and contemporary issues.
Photo credit
www.nbcnews.com
