He placed fifth at Eurovision 2017 and watched as winner Salvador Sobal dismissed “fast food music without any content” during his victory speech.

And on Tuesday Sweden’s Robin Bengtsson snapped back in an Instagram post, praising Sobral’s victory while taking aim at his controversial comments.

The speech, in which Salvador appealed for a return to music with “feelings”, has been widely interpreted as criticism of music that’s become commonplace in the contest recently, including slickly produced songs from the Nordic countries.

Now Robin has given his take.

The Swedish star was keen to stress his appreciation for “Amar Pelos Dois” and Salvador’s performance, pointing out “I really like your song and the way you sing it.”

But then he went on to add his disappointment over Salvador’s comments.

“I think your speech after winning the ESC was below the level of a true winner. “Fast food” pop music can be the best thing in the world at the right place and time, so can a song as beautiful as yours. There is room for everyone.”

The comment has since been liked by over 2,700 people, including Alexander Walman, who acted as vocalist for Norway’s track “Grab The Moment”, Australia’s Isaiah Firebrace and two-time Melodifestivalen finalist Wiktoria.

Some have seen Salvador’s comments a criticism of Scandipop and similar chart pop music.

Others have suggested the Portuguese singer’s words may have been misunderstood and that his intention was to highlight the problem of over-produced songs, sung by singers who cannot sing and all sound the same.

WAS PORTUGAL’S VOTING IN LINE WITH SALVADOR’S SPEECH?

Looking at the Portuguese votes it seems both the public and the jury were out of step with his call for music with “feelings”.

In an ironic twist of fate the public awarded twelve points to Moldova’s Europop dance track “Hey Mamma” in both the semi-final and the final, and gave 10 points to Sweden in the semi-final.

The Portuguese jury were also willing to dish out points to the Swede, giving him 5 points in the semi and 7 during the Grand Final.

What do you think of Robin’s comments? Do you think Salvador was misunderstood or do you think his comments were below the belt? Let us know in the comments below!

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Strato Incendus
Strato Incendus
6 years ago

“Every truth needs one brave person who says it out openly.” I myself have used the term “fast-food music”, just as I like to refer to some DJs as “musical microwaves”, taking old hits and recycling them. At least at Eurovision, all songs have to be new, albeit not necessarily “original”. I’m happy Salvador addressed this; now, he must be ready to accept the consequences of his statement, and it looks like he is. Together with other statements he’s made, like valuing the Marcel Bezencon awards by “musically educated” judges more than the Eurovision victory, or saying just ahead of… Read more »

Dew
Dew
6 years ago

Robin said the truth though I’m happy that Portugal won. So in his mind that pop dance track “Euphoria” is also a fast-food music? I’m sorry. I am sure people will still remember Euphoria but not your song after 10 years.

Miguel
Miguel
6 years ago
Reply to  Dew

Amar pelos dois es eterna

Marcel
Marcel
6 years ago

Well.. you might thing that sounded “not-polite” or anything else .. but as they say .. “True might hurts sometimes” my dear friends .. what I understood is that general speaking theres a lot of bad music .. more and more ..day by day .. and if a romantic song written and sung in Portuguese , a language that just a few could understand the lyrics but seemed to understand the beauty, won against all the “la la la songs” Yes .. music still can win in the end .. and as the swedish singer said .. “fast food” music… Read more »

Janina
Janina
6 years ago

Salvador’s comment has really rubbed me the wrong way and I love how some people are trying to defend him by saying “oh, he didn’t mean eurovision, he meant the music industry in general” which a) is not true, he said in an interview that he hopes his win will change eurovision so he was indeed talking about his fellow contestants and b) that wouldn’t make it any better. No music is better than the other. There is no “real” music. All the music in the world is one click away, everyone can decide what music they want to listen… Read more »

Joanna
Joanna
6 years ago
Reply to  Janina

I totally agree with you

Adriana
Adriana
6 years ago

For those who speak/understand portuguese. A very personal interview. Here Salvador speaks about his health condition (one of the very few times)

http://sic.sapo.pt/Programas/altadefinicao/videos/2017-05-07-Alta-Definicao-com-Salvador-Sobral

Gaby
Gaby
6 years ago
Reply to  Adriana

His health issue has nothing to do with this conversation Adriana. Now i just want to know one thing… did people expected it that after Salvador won he would have a personality exchange or something? He’s been using the term “fast food music” ever since he stepped in the red carpet on may 7th, was he supposed to become an hypocrite just because he won and start praising Eurovision type music? He and Luisa were always clear that they wanted to help people to see music in a different way, sure Luisa has a more polished way to say things,… Read more »

Rufio Feelwix
Rufio Feelwix
6 years ago

As a Portuguese American I’m happy Portugal won, but that comment made me cringe. Sobral’s whole “I don’t know what Eurovision is shtick and I’m quirky, and I’m awkward shtick” is pretty annoying. He better learn some better PR and humbleness, because he tv appearances are just getting started.

Moo Moo in Canada
Moo Moo in Canada
6 years ago

Rodin is vying for being the spokesperson of Burger King :p

Take it
Take it
6 years ago

The robotized “Ken” doll Bengtsson is suffering from a very widespread condition: Envy!!!! Cause his repetitive empty song didn’t win! Hopefully there still millions of europeans that still recognize music quality! Go Salvador! Go Portugal! No matter what some envy haters say…. against real facts there’s no arguments! And the facts show that Portugal won fairly and solidly! BAM!

Ed Jones
Ed Jones
6 years ago
Reply to  Take it

BAM! Said it

Ryan
Ryan
6 years ago
Reply to  Take it

No it’s not “envy” considering Portugal had the worst song this year. It’s pointing out the truth. The comment was uncalled for, if we want to play like that though then I can chime in and point out that Salvador looked like a rat who wanted cheese and started singing about the cheese because somebody ate it.

Bob
Bob
6 years ago

Good of Robin to state the obvious because some people seem to think Salvador was right just because he won. Salvador is a bit arrogant, unfortunately. His song is just as much “fast food” as the Swedish entry, and nothing wrong with that.

Bsk
Bsk
6 years ago

Salvador speech… “Jazz Snob, An annoying or stubborn person whom denies any, or most, kinds of music other than Jazz. Has a self-indulgent illusion of sophistication about himself and, in particular, his tastes. They are usually 20+ and also fluent in poetry and ‘the arts’, and are the first to stereotype you, or anyone, and use this against them for the remainder of the said person’s life. In general; extremely obnoxious people whom are indescribably arrogant yet impossible to get through to due to the thick layer of love for themselves they have through their ‘sophisticated’ yet ironically simple minded… Read more »

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  Bsk

Poor Bsk, so long and verbose and just talking nonsense.
We should only talk about what we know.
You do not know Salvador, obviously.
Do not worry, you will… 😀

God-Emperor
God-Emperor
6 years ago

ortugal 2017 must be the anti-hero of SVT. The nightmare of the Swedish establishment, who seem to love nothing more than a performance that is completely planned-through into the smallest detail and will always be the robotic same. Who seem to want to kill any spontaneous artistic expression at the root. Who seemed like they needed to teach the rest of Europe how to do Eurovision “properly” (in their eyes). Who seemed to force their standards upon the whole contest. Who – deliberately or not – seem to have established colonies in Azerbaijan, Serbia, Macedonia, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Ireland and other… Read more »

Bsk
Bsk
6 years ago
Reply to  God-Emperor

Speech as arrogant as that of your Savior !! ahahha

Helene
Helene
6 years ago
Reply to  God-Emperor

To call yourself God Emporer says it all. There are always different kinds of songs and music in Melodifestivalen. Who wins is another story. Last years winner Frans was nothing like what you here claim to be Swedish. It was hated by Eurovision fans that said that it was boring. This year Nano was selected by the Swedish audience. It was nothing but robotlike. It was the international juries that choose Robin.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  God-Emperor

Wise words God-Emperor!
Congratulations!

Viva a Europa e as suas culturas!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
(… I can hear our hymn Beethoven Ode to Joy right now…)

Jenny
Jenny
6 years ago

Oh Robin, whatever Salvador said, goes 100 per cent for your trashy entry…

Lindsey maycock
6 years ago
Reply to  Jenny

your opinion of Robin’s song really isn’t the point here. You don’t bash the other contestants after you win. You can be the best musician in the world but if you have terrible musicianship it ruins it. Just like if the winning athlete has terrible sportsmanship then it really taints their medal. The typical eurovision viewer likes that kind of music because it’s a bit of fun. These performances make everyone dance and it’s not going away. Trying to take the fire works out of eurovision is like going into a strip club and trying to get everyone to believe… Read more »

Viking
Viking
6 years ago

ABBA, Sobral. Why 2017 is a landmark year for Eurovision.
And I hope this insightful text can end this ridiculous discussion:
http://www.escgo.com/2017/05/16/abba-sobral-2017-landmark-year-eurovision/

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Viking

Very well written article. Congrats.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  Viking

Beautiful!

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago
Reply to  Viking

Great article! Thank you for sharing that. I hope your words will become true. I also liked what you said about the “test years”. I had my own 2000-2001-2002 and 2006, so I can relate to that.

MistyEyes
MistyEyes
6 years ago

Singing about love is so unique, Salvador!1!1!1!!!!

Chiara
Chiara
6 years ago

When Latvia was handing out the jury votes, the presentor representing Latvia referred to Salvador as a ‘pop’ idol. When the camera’s turned to Portugal’s booth filming their reaction being handed twelve points, you could clearly see that he was offended that he was called a ‘pop’ singer, mouthing ‘pop’ and pointing to him and waving his finger. https://youtu.be/ehH0_UXtQlY around the 2:50:50 mark. He clearly has a holier-than-thou attitude and looks down on pop music and pop singers, otherwise you wouldn’t overreact like this. If being referred to as a pop idol is such an insult, why participate in the… Read more »

Jake
Jake
6 years ago
Reply to  Chiara

He meant he didn’t win Pop Idol…I think some commentators mentioned he was on Pop Idol and Aminata called him Portuguese Pop Idol…which is said he was not

God-Emperor
God-Emperor
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Oh what a surprise. Calling Salvador as a pop artist truly shows nescience and let me tell you that he didn’t kept good memories from that hideous TV program. A TV program that relegates music and prefers gossip topics ofc does not conect with a TRUE and BRILLIANT artist like Mr. Salvador Sobral.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  God-Emperor

<3 God-Emperor
spot on

We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
6 years ago
Reply to  Chiara

Who said it is a pop contest!? It’s a song contest which for many years has been dominated by pop following the succesful Swedish music industry, simple and commercial. It seems the audience had enough of this and is looking for quality in the cultural diversity. May this be very welcome…

Alexander
Alexander
6 years ago
Reply to  Chiara

Oh, that’s a great heads-up! Thank you for pointing that out! 😉

Camoes
Camoes
6 years ago

You can like him or not, Salvador Sobral has become a NATIONAL HERO with an amazing victory and nobody can take that away from him.

fsk
fsk
6 years ago
Reply to  Camoes

Portuguese humility showing is dark side, arrogance and presumption. Yeah, you should take him as the national hero from the pedants’ country! 😛

Camoes
Camoes
6 years ago
Reply to  fsk

There is a name for what you are feeling: Envy and possibly a hint of racism

Bella
Bella
6 years ago

As much as I dislike Robin’s song, I do agree with him that “fast food” music can be amazing and that everyone has a place in music. I myself enjoy trashy pop music when I’m in the right mood.

I think Salvador might have been slightly misunderstood also though. Words can be interpreted any way and he might not have meant to put anybody down.

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Bella

When asked about his victory speech during the final press conference, Salvador replied talking about the music industry and how certain songs are given to radios by labels and they have to be played on high rotation so that people get ‘addicted’ to them. He did not mention anything about other ESC singers or even Eurovision being ‘fast food’, so it’s complete speculation on anyone’s part to want to make it seem like he was talking exclusively about Eurovision.

Tom
Tom
6 years ago

Jon Ola Sand, the Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest turning towards Salvador said: “(…) I was very touched by your performance. It was, as you said, bringing music back to the Eurovision Song Contest (…). He understood PERFECTLY what he meant. Besides, Salvador began with: “We live in a world where..(…)”, he was talking about the music industry in general and didn’t mention anyone in particular (in/out ESC), he even did a cover with his sister of other EC songs ( Belgium and Finland ). There is good and bad music in every style, and of course there… Read more »

Denis
Denis
6 years ago
Reply to  Tom

it was more the way he said it, like who is he even to say what counts as “real” music?
He creates a division between music lovers, in that there is “real” music and then there’s fake. No music is real, music is only music. It is there to be enjoyed. Every song has a value, even fast food ones.

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

Could he have said in a more elegant way? He could. But again, as someone said here, ” The difference is that Salvador attacked the music industry, Robin attacked Salvador”.

Joanna
Joanna
6 years ago
Reply to  Tom

Robin didn’t attack him. He was wery polite and just expressed his opinion just like Salvador did.

May
May
6 years ago
Reply to  Joanna

As much as he was polite he did directly mention Salvador, while Salvador himself never mentioned anyone directly. He could have made a good statement without the finger-pointing.
That being said, I don’t think Salvador OR Robin are wrong in their opinions, much less that they’re mutually exclusive (the music industry has become dominated by songs that have zero intent beyond selling well just as much as everyone is free to listen to whatever they want), just that both could have worded/timed their comments better.

Jojo
Jojo
6 years ago

I don’t get why people are still arguing about this, the contest is over. Do you all plan on continuing to fight on here until the next contest? I mean really, what’s the point? I don’t know why people aren’t already tired of this argument. Can we all just put it to rest. Both of them were right to an extent. There is a lot of focus in the music industry on creating surefire money-making, copycat, chart-topping hits instead of creating something more interesting and different with more meaning and emotion but at the same time, music is music, there… Read more »

Eld
Eld
6 years ago

Totally agree with Robin

Pavell
Pavell
6 years ago

I did cringe a bit when Salvador let out that comment when he won. Cut it anyway you want, it was basically dismissing one type of music and regarding your own song as superior to all the rest, which is just wrong and the opposite of humble.

We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
6 years ago

I cant imagine any fast food in a gastronomic contest. Why would anyone get upset if a chef critisized unhealthy fast food or a musitian speaks about easy commercial music? I enjoyed Roberts performance , but in the context of a music contest the quality of his song was based on the show, not in music. Sorry Robert. I still dont get why a yodel show can rank so high in a contest of music, for example. What Salvador said as a winner is what I have been thinking in the last years, most countries singing the usual ballads with… Read more »

We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
6 years ago

* Robin, I meant…. What was I thinking hehe

Denis
Denis
6 years ago

But who is Salvador to criticize? He’s no better than others.
And ESC isn’t fine diner, it’s fast food, the whole thing Salvador criticizes.
His music isn’t better than others. Who is he to tell us what “real” music is?
There is no division, no real music, only music. Fast food music has a value to fill for those who enjoy it, that doesn’t make it fake or less real.

Viking
Viking
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

And who is Robin to state the opposite?

We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

Fast food continues being food, exactly as simple commercial music is still music. I guess all of us can see the difference between a plate created from the heart by a passionate chef and a globalized hamburger. Of course the chef has the right to speak about the real cuisine!

Jake
Jake
6 years ago

I think the post-remarks from Salvador and Robin are a reflection of both men’s personalities, which itself reflects their music/songs. Salvador’s victory comments (like his song) were raw, polarizing, honest, from the heart, expressive and not perfect, but trying to make a point. He speaks without abandonment as if he has nothing to lose and lives like every day could be his last (who knows, maybe his health plays into that). Robin would’ve preferred Salvador would’ve said something more precise, generic, nicely constructed, diplomatic, appealing to everyone and polished–like his I Can’t Go On song. Robin is a nice guy… Read more »

We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
We love leds, visuals, air machines, fireworks, divas and dated ballads!
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

I absolutely agree with you. Great comment.

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Bingo!

You said everything that needed to be said.

Great comment!

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Touché. ???

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Tom

Touché.

quince
quince
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Ditto!

Viking
Viking
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Word.

God-Emperor
God-Emperor
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Preach!

Frances
Frances
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Two things lacking on the winner’s podium: situational awareness and grace.

On podium as winner: Time and place to acknowledge the other competitors and the hard work and commitment of everyone involved in the previous two weeks, and to thank Europe for the win and the opportunity!

Any other time and place as winner: opportunity as reigning champion to promote a discussion about modern music trends and genres.

Absolutely no idea!!!

Zebb
Zebb
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

True story.
However, Frances also sends right message. And it doesn’t mean be generic or sterilised when doing more precise and thankful speech.

In the end, they both benefit in this situation. Salvador for being straight-on and honest, especially after figuring out in press-conference and leading her sister to her best moment on stage, as well as Robin for his fans and system where he wants to be its better child.

Joanna
Joanna
6 years ago
Reply to  Jake

Robin didn’t attack him. He was wery polite and just expressed his opinion just like Salvador did.

adriana
adriana
6 years ago

One thing i will add :If he is ill or not he can`t hide forever .Soon or later it would come out like it or not.He won Eurovision ,he became a star ,so his life wont be that private after all .Till after the Eurovision 2018 he will be the target of all the international media and Portugal.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

What a morbid fascination you have with this topic. If you are implying that he won because of sympathy votes, then please explain to me why the Netherlands didn’t win. Their song is about their mother that has been battling cancer.

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

No ,i wasnt even thinking that .They made a big fuss about his hernia in the end its his heart in the end he can`t be at the rehersals all these came from them not from anyone else how can you call morbid and the morbid its coming from them?

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

When you say they, are you referring to the media or the Portuguese delegation? Because it was the media that created the fuss, not the delegation. The delegation did what was necessary to take care of Salvador’s needs. Did you see him at the Red Carpet and his first rehearsals, he looked exhausted and ill. I don’t think you can make that up. It’s morbid because the majority of people are not talking about it and very few like you are bringing this up. Since you are so interested in the topic, I highly suggest that you watch the videos… Read more »

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

If he is ill and i hope he is not because i dont wish him to be ill…The fuss we are talking about yes it was created by media but his manager denied that he is ill and that makes me confused but i really dont know what to belleve.And im not the only one who thinks that.And darling you are well aware when you win a competition like this you can`t be private anymore.Come on now we both know that.All he can do now is to shout everyone mouth once and for good.But like i said he dezerved to… Read more »

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

I understand and agree with what you’re saying but you must admit that he is not your typical Eurovision participant and winner. If he chooses to make an announcement regarding his health, he will. If not, then we have to respect that.

I hope that his health improves because we need his talent to make our lives brighter.

Diego
Diego
6 years ago

Robin is frustredet.
Salvador was honest with what he believed. Get over it

Jeffrey
Jeffrey
6 years ago

This has nothing to do with the topic but..

Salvador’s voice sounds so much like “Big Bird on Sesame Street”.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  Jeffrey

It does and I love it! Big Bird is my favorite Sesame Street character. More reason to love him!

rrrrr
rrrrr
6 years ago
Reply to  Jeffrey

At last someone with visual and pop culture in this discussion.
Of course that you are mentioning Bird and Chet (Charlie Parker and Chet Baker) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wkRKQVFNJLk

adriana
adriana
6 years ago

So in the end what the truth is?From this Topic waS all about getting attention from the Whole Europe and he did and he won with a great song but very bad attitude.
http://wiwibloggs.com/2017/03/16/eurovision-not-risk-salvador-sobrals-team-speaks-fake-health-news/181301/

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

It is true that the first reaction was to deny it, because they did not want to play that card. Maybe that was not a smart move from the agent. But Flash reported that he needed a heart transplant and this has been denied and not been confirmed since. But saying that this was all a strategy to win is really being a bad player…

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  L'oiseau

Robin it wont be the only one who will gonna speak,More others to come .

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

So what? Big deal! Let them talk. Everyone can talk. It doesn’t change the fact that Salvador won Eurovision and used it as a platform to speak on behalf of the refugees and spoke against the current music scene.

Again, he had to put up with insults hurled at him and his song. He had the last word. If you can dish it, then you have to take it.

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Who else? I am curious. Anyway, soon it will be yesterday’s news.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Is it possible for you and others to understand that they tried to hide it at first and when they realized that Salvador could not make it to the first rehearsals, then the had to admit that the rumors were true? I would had done exactly the same because my health issues is no one’s business. If you read and watched all of his interviews, he was always very reluctant to talk about his health. When it’s about his health no one has the damn right to demand an explanation or a truth. It’s none of your and anyone else’s… Read more »

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

Listen if is true i wont say anything ,But they gone with hernia all the way till the end.Thats why most people are not happy because they dont know what to belleve.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

They had to admit the hernias because he was hospitalized and had surgery. Again, it’s no one business! I wonder if you would like people meddling trying to find out your health issues.

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

His agent said that his life its not in any danger .

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Did you know that he slammed the Portuguese tabloids for using his health issues to sell magazines? That’s how private he is about it. He mentioned it in an interview for the programs of Inferno and 5 pa meia-noite.

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

So you are from Portugal i see

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Hahahaha! Actually, I’m not. I’m Peruvian-Puerto Rican living in the United States with no Portuguese bloodline whatsoever. Knowing Spanish allows me to understand a little bit of Portuguese.

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

Then you dont know all about him do you.His life one thing is for sure wont be private ,that you need to accept.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

I know what I know because of the interviews he has given. If he doesn’t give interviews, then I won’t know anything about him.

He can live his life the way he wants to and I accept that. What I will not accept is people like you wanting answers to things that are none of your business.

Bart
Bart
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Dear adriana. I see you have being yodelling again too much… take it easy…

Denis
Denis
6 years ago

Salvador tried but failed with his statement? why? Because he won with his song in a contest that generally consists of waht he calls fast food music. He won due to listeners of fast food music named him the best in the Contest. That should say that his music is now in the same league as fast food music, it was popular enough to get massive support from voters. That’s why his comment is not only strange but rude, like why is he criticizing the industry when the same industry proved there is room for his music too? ESC fans… Read more »

Milla
Milla
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

Yes. And why did he take part in this contest in the first place if his music is considered to play in a different league? Perhaps to take advantage of it just to get himself known?

Salvadorable
Salvadorable
6 years ago
Reply to  Milla

Hey! Salvador participated in ESC because his sister was invited to be one of the song writers and she composed that song for his voice. You can see they have a really close relationship and I’m sure he did this more out of love for his sister’s work than to get known. (i don’t know if i’m expressing myself right)
Pretty much the fame for him was nothing but a bonus, he sang the song out of his love for music and to make his sister happy (I mean, with his condition you never know when it’s your last day).

rrrrr
rrrrr
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

Denis, I agree.Totally. Funny is that Robin stood up for all the fast food music producers. Wisely all the others just went back home thinking about it. Bengtsson felt that he probably did his song as if he was working in Macdonald’s. There is nothing wrong about working in MacDonald’s but MacDonald’s it is still not NOMA. It is unfair that a NOMA chef should come to this fast food soup contest and offer something really good to eat. The fact is that millions of dinning people just felt that it was really tasty and not so plastic. Some people… Read more »

Patryk
Patryk
6 years ago
Reply to  Denis

@Denis
lmao I send 7 votes for Porugal but I usually listen to “fast food music”. If i want to relax i choose “I can’t go on” “Oci Karma” or “Hey, mama” rather than “Amar pelos dois” but at the same time i really want Portugal’s song to win this contest. So your comment is not a the point.

Ovtolevks
Ovtolevks
6 years ago

I think that Robin is a very diplomatic and friendly kind of person.

I would have found stronger and less appeasing words for this type of behaviour.

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Ovtolevks

He is not diplomatic, he is PHONY

He is liking comments on Instagram that say Portugal’s song is boring and that Salvador won because of “health issues”. While in his original post, he says he likes Portugal’s song very much and the way Salvador sang it.

What a hypocrite this guy is. Plastic and phony.

Ovtolevks
Ovtolevks
6 years ago
Reply to  Mike

I’ve never seen those likes. There’re also fan pages and what under his name, so I am not convinced he hit those with his hand.

Ovtolevks
Ovtolevks
6 years ago
Reply to  Ovtolevks

…and what not…

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago

@Cassandra He was not talking about all the songs in ESC 2017. But I am sure that some of those came to his mind. If he had listed all the songs he liked and all the songs that he did not like it would have been very rude. If it was me talking I would immediately classify “I can’t go on” as plastic And THE country with cheap, generic “fast food pop” is Sweden. How I miss ABBA… He was speaking about the music scene in general. I don´t know how it is in your countries but over here most… Read more »

James Triggs
James Triggs
6 years ago

Wow, his comments sure have stirred up debate. I don’t know if my words will be of use to anyone, but I’ll just throw them in just in case. Sincere apologies for the wall of text. In his winner’s conference, he expanded upon on disposable music by saying that that he wasn’t interested in making music just so it could be heard on the radio. The context of his comments was, it seems, to be an attack on the commercial nature of the music industry. While I agree that there are serious issues with the over-commercialised music industry we have… Read more »

rrrrr
rrrrr
6 years ago
Reply to  James Triggs

Robin… My friend, you just misunderstand Salvador. He was not referring to your entry.
Your entry is not even music nor fireworks, it is a very good fitness program.
I’m sure that it will make millions of people thiner in gyms all over the world.
Good luck on your abs.

Zebb
Zebb
6 years ago
Reply to  James Triggs

Nice words, James.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago

@ Davve @Lucy @George @CarlosM Are you all Davve? You all sound the same to me hehe Let’s focus on Davve, the troll: “A lot of Salvadors fans have the same huge egos as Salvador. … He is a talent show contestant with no previous success or charting pre 2016 and pre eurovision. … Salvadors ego needs to settle a bit, he is already starting to fade away…” Maybe if you keep writing this everywhere and then reading out loud to yourself you will believe it. But my guess is that not even you believe that. Any of you. But,… Read more »

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago

@L’oiseau <<<<>>>> Well, Mr Angus Quinn presents himself in wiwiblogs as “A self-confessed Scandifanboy, … follows Melodifestivalen religiously every year.” So it is just natural that his “dor de cotovelo” might be huge (as we call it over here). About wiwiblogs… I do understand that they need to “keep the flame burning” durin low ESC season, so what better way to do this than posting content that they know for sure that people are going to react? 😉 Well wiwiblogs, if it depends on me (and if time allows me) I consider it a mission to make sure that no… Read more »

cascada
cascada
6 years ago
Reply to  Azzzul

Salvador harms his own image without any help from haters. You will need to be very vigilant to prevent Salvador from harming himself.

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago
Reply to  Azzzul

😉
I must say wiwibloggs, especially William (and Bernardo of course), supported Salvador until the very end. Even Chris, who didn’t like the song, got it after the first dress rehearsal. I must say I was even touched by Chris’ reaction when he became thrilled that Portugal won, congratulating Bernardo. So, wiwibloggs will keep doing an excellent job covering our beloved ESC.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  L'oiseau

@L’oiseau
I have nothing against wiwiblogs.
And even when I write that they are trying to “keep the flame burning during the low season” I am not judging them.
On the contrary, I think that they are doing what good bloggers should do. They are a very good blog about ESC.
I just wish they will be attentive about those especially nasty comments that are just meant to hurt…

adriana
adriana
6 years ago

Just now i read about another singer from Eurovision who isnt impressed by Salvador ,but not because of his message .All the stories about Salvador before Semifinal and final was all act and prepared before Kiyv ,Hernia surgery he had it before the national Final in Portugal,but im sure the truth will come out.He won but the victim card was played perfect.Bulgarian singer all most blind but he didnt made public .Im sure WIWI can confirm this.

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

ok adriana, you have no idea what you are talking about!
I can only say to you all that I only wish that Salvador’s heath problems were not true… for his sake and for the sake of everybody who loves him an his music.

Beware! do not mess with karma! do not wish that you have what he has!

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Azzzul

He denied that his got heart problems ,his sister denied Who is liyng in the end?

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

Adriana, are you deaf or are just playing dumb?

His sister confirmed that Salvador has a heart condition – many, many times, including in several interviews with THIS very blog, Wiwibloggs.

Stop lying. Why do you need to lie? Is this that important to you?
It’s only music. And a musical competition. Do you really need to sink that low? Geez!

adriana
adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Azzzul

Read thos and stop accusing people who are aware about what they said.This is from this site.Show me where he says he is ill ?
http://wiwibloggs.com/2017/03/16/eurovision-not-risk-salvador-sobrals-team-speaks-fake-health-news/181301/

Azzzul
Azzzul
6 years ago
Reply to  adriana

@Adriana The confusion about his health issues was caused exactly because he didn’t want to appear like the “poor little ill boy seeking for compassion”. Salvador chose not to speak about it and chose to admit only the hernia surgery. He and his staff never said that the news that came up about the heart condition were a lie, they just said repeatedly that they had no more to say about the subject. Quoting his manager in the very interview that you linked to: “I have nothing more to say about that,” she said, explaining that he is doing well… Read more »

dade
dade
6 years ago

the funny thing is, Salvador didn’t point at any Song or Country. And now Robin comes along, from Sweden. hahahahahaha

Alexander
Alexander
6 years ago
Reply to  dade

No, he didn’t (apparently not brave enough), but it’s stupid to think he wasn’t referring to any of them.

dade
dade
6 years ago
Reply to  Alexander

don’t get me wrong, I’m very aware of that. But still – he didn’t. Even if I agree with giving space to all kind of music, it’s still funny that it’s Robin from Sweden defending the short breath music Industry.

Alexander
Alexander
6 years ago
Reply to  dade

Now (I think) I get it! But what do you think it’s funny? I mean, what is your idea of modern Swedish music?

Alexander
Alexander
6 years ago

Why do you all think that Robin took that personally? He didn’t say a word that he felt attacked or something, but I agree with everything he said: all kinds of music should exist—including “fast food” music (whatever the hell it is). The winner’s speech did in fact sounded like a bunch of snobbery especially considering the motto of the event “Celebrate Diversity”.

And if he doesn’t have balls to be more straightforward and precise—why open mouth in the first place?

Pavel
Pavel
6 years ago

I suppose Robin “Poupée de cire” Bengtsson isn’t happy about Melodifestivalen/Swedish production called out for being formulaic and soulless once in a while.

Underdawg
Underdawg
6 years ago

I welcome Salvador’s speech. I’m glad he used his exposure to raise the alarm about what’s happening with the music industry in general. I don’t get why people are so butthurt about it. He wasn’t looking down on the other contestants. It would be naive to believe there is room for everyone nowadays when radios, recording companies are promoting a single type of shallow, gimmicky music and everything does revolve around money (nobody cares about talent and creativity anymore). And maybe Robin should focus on releasing songs which don’t sound like Justin Timberlake – Can’t Stop the Feeling rip-offs instead… Read more »

Lunaya
Lunaya
6 years ago
Reply to  Underdawg

I couldn’t agree more.

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Underdawg

I agree completely. Look at why Adele sells 25 million albums and nobody else does. It’s because of her voice and the emotion she puts into it. But what do record labels look for? They are looking for some girl who will sell sex and sing about sex and her ‘booty’ and dancing in the club, etc. Or same thing for a guy. That’s always what they’re looking for. The success of a song like Salvador’s, or Adele’s whole catalog, proves that the ‘fast-food’ music industry, with its radio allies that play the same song 20 times an hour so… Read more »

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Underdawg

Totally agree with you.

MS
MS
6 years ago

Love Statements and many entries has been full of emotions! But I don’t like when we say that some emotions is better than others!
Is it a better song if i make me cry, than if it make me happy and want to dance?
For examle our Owe Törnkvists song in melfest! Romania and Moldova in ESC this year! We should respect music of all kind!

I think Owe whould have done sucess in ESC. ( But Loreen was my favorite)

Susan
Susan
6 years ago

I think that he doesn’t have the most pleasant vocals in this competition. His stage presence comes across as very fiddly and childish. I don’t personally know him but from what I’ve seen from red carpet event interviews to speeches, he comes across as very arrogant. This years event was very boring and bland. Sweden did a fantastic job last year as host.

Paul D.
Paul D.
6 years ago

@cascada and @good are the same person

Maybe YOU shouldn’t be trying so hard 😉

cascada
cascada
6 years ago
Reply to  Paul D.

Yes, I’m the same person, because I’ve been told that my comment is awaiting moderation. I had to write again, and I’ve signed with another name.
It seems that comments against Salvador must be moderated.

cascada
cascada
6 years ago

Some try so hard to defend Salvador ever since burger/tartar comment, and no matter how hard you try, he comes back and says something even more indefensible. Stop trying, tomorrow he will say something even more revolting.
How do you defend his comment about Marcel Bezencon award, when he said that is more important than ESC itself, because in ESC vote normal people.
This is the homework for today for Salvador fans. Answer that.

Luz
Luz
6 years ago
Reply to  cascada

I’m one of Salvador’s defenders because I agree with everything he has said. He has been brutally honest, sarcastic and consistent at it and I personally love it because I’m the same way. I’ve reading and watching all of his interviews. He has been even very critical to his fellow Portuguese countrymen, mentioning how the management of auditoriums would say they would booked until next year and now all of a sudden they want him to perform in their venues. In addition, when asked how he felt of the Portuguese worried about his health, he responded that they were just… Read more »

Tom
Tom
6 years ago
Reply to  Luz

Standing ovation.

good
good
6 years ago

Great comment from Robin Bengtsson, Salvador Sobral needs to be put in its place. I’m tired of these Sobral siblings already. Bad Karma for Lisbon 2018.

rrrrr
rrrrr
6 years ago
Reply to  good

Thanks. Salvador knows his place and probably will never more cross ways with you.

Purple Mask
Purple Mask
6 years ago

Snap poll: What was the most obvious example of “unfeeling” and “repetitive” music at this year’s contest? Answers on a postcard.
I would say it was Spain.

Frank
Frank
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

Spain did actually deserve last place. Manel was a very likeable though. Sadly his vocals, song and staging was so mediocre.

Dylan
Dylan
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

Maybe Salvadors speech was aiming at Spain? It did fit the description of fast food, laid back and repetitive. But most songs in this competition are generic pop so Salvador shouldn’t of said anything in the first place. What’s worse was the main point of his acceptance speech was “to call out all the fast food songs”. I wonder what the reaction in the green room was like?

No Name
No Name
6 years ago
Reply to  Dylan

Again, his speech wasn’t directed to any contestant… you still don’t get it do you?

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  No Name

@No Name,

No, they clearly don’t get it, because they didn’t watch Salvador’s final press conference.

He was asked about his winner’s speech and clarified what he meant, he was talking about the music industry and what the radios play and how radios & labels impose certain types of songs on listeners, on high rotation, while ignoring other possible genres and good songs.

To say that he was referring to Eurovision and other singers at the event is nothing but pure speculation.

Purple Mask
Purple Mask
6 years ago
Reply to  Mike

@Mike 1. I did watch the Press Conference, with great interest. 2. Some of the ESC performers have record contracts, which means that they are, by definition, part of the music industry. (As are all songwriters and musicians, on a broader level.) 3. My “snap poll” wasn’t intended as being entirely serious at the time. I had already written a serious opinion-based comment on the matter, a few threads below this one. I basically said that both Salvador and Robin are correct, and they each make good points. 4. The fact that Portugal won by a huge margin this year… Read more »

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

I actually like the song, so nothing against it. But indeed Sweden was maybe “too perfect” and staged… and of course Denmark and in particular Australia.

Paul D.
Paul D.
6 years ago

I don’t get why Robin feels so attacked, Salvador was not referring to him or any other contestant. He was talking about the fact that the music industry only cares about certain types of music and radio also ignores some alternative styles and maybe his win meant something and people were sending a message by voting for him

TACV
TACV
6 years ago
Reply to  Paul D.

Totally agree with you.

Adriana
Adriana
6 years ago
Reply to  Paul D.

Best comment here.

Polegend Godgarina
6 years ago
Reply to  Paul D.

I can see why Robin felt attacked, Salvador basically described his song and performance with 2 words.

cascada
cascada
6 years ago

What if he was talking about your beloved Estonia?
Snobs like Salvador should not be encouraged.

Alexander
Alexander
6 years ago
Reply to  Paul D.

“He was talking about the fact that the music industry only cares about certain types of music and radio also ignores some alternative styles and maybe his win meant something and people were sending a message by voting for him”
Ah…that’s a very abstract interpretation of his words, I must say.

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Alexander

The thing is, Alexander, words are open for interpretation. It’s pure speculation to say that Salvador was referring to the other more commercial songs in the competition, because he DID NOT mention the competition in his speech. He didn’t say “it’s time to bring back more feeling into the Eurovision Song contest”, he said “it’s time to bring back more feeling into music, music isn’t just fireworks, music is about feelings”. The people who are affirming, like it’s a given, that Salvador meant Eurovision, are just speculating, but act like they know it all. Furthermore, in his winner press conference,… Read more »

Music is the key
Music is the key
6 years ago

LOL Robin….sorry – but how pathetic! Your song is nice! But in this case…just a soar loser! It’s typical that a Swede react….if there is ONE country which often enters cheap, generic “fast food pop” to ESC…it’s Sweden! I don’t think Salvador said ANYTHING controversial…he didn’t critisize any singer, or any kind of music. He said the obvious…that honest, pure and simple music won. Music from the heart. Not silly undecessary glamour or gimnicks…just genuine music from the hear…bck to basic. That is just truth! I am sure many people understood that…and loved his song for it. He just echoced… Read more »

Purple Mask
Purple Mask
6 years ago

Both Salvador Sobral and Robin Bengtsson are correct about their different points. Yes, the music industry does lack “feeling” in much of its formulaic records right now. But, at the same time, there should be room to appreciate ALL forms of music at the Eurovision Song Contest (including plastic pop). So they are both correct. Some people on this blog may recall that I gave Portugal a “wildcard” score, since the song’s interpretation was inconsistent by the performer and therefore produced a different outcome of the song each time. This turned out to have been a path to victory, and… Read more »

Polegend Godgarina
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

I think Sweden’s real opportunity was Jon Henrin & Aninia. Loreen simply came off as tryhard and desperate, and the public wouldn’t have been here for her.

Joseph Dechavez
Joseph Dechavez
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

“Statements” could have been a real contender this year but Swedes being Swedes, liking their fastfood music as if nothing is going on in the world and that ESC is all about the light show. Loreen’s song could have made a big difference. Unfortunately, Swedes probably don’t have what it takes for that kind (or any kind?) of activism. Unlike Robin though, Loreen with her solid stripped down tv performances, might have applauded Salvador for his performance and words.

Mattias Sollerman
Mattias Sollerman
6 years ago

I hope SVT invites Sobral to Melodifestivalen next year and lets him perform his own interpretation of I Can’t Go On, just to show that all music becomes real music when sung in Portuguese. ^^

Purple Mask
Purple Mask
6 years ago

I could totally see SVT doing that!
I love that broadcaster’s sense of humour. 🙂
(P.S. Melodifestivalen needs to cut out the swearing next year though.)

Mattias Sollerman
Mattias Sollerman
6 years ago
Reply to  Purple Mask

Indeed, would be very typical of them, and the crowd would love it.
Another thing which came to my mind was:
Words cut, but I don’t care how much it hurts.
Shades for the blind. Can’t hear your empty words.
We don’t need no-
We don’t need no-
Disposable music.

A bit too dark perhaps.

L'oiseau
L'oiseau
6 years ago

That would be fun. BTW check out the Sobral’s version of Blanche’s song in their facebook.

jet
jet
6 years ago

To be clear, a representative from the Portuguese broadcaster was asked about Salvador’s victory speech. He said that people were giving it too much dimension and that Salvador was worried because he didn’t want to offend any of the other contestants. So here you go, stop this nonsense about Salvador being superior and stuff like that.

Tiago S
Tiago S
6 years ago
Reply to  jet

Where can we find that speech?

Hsinaps
Hsinaps
6 years ago

I think Salvador had a point but so did Robin. I think people should be more open to non-pop songs, there is life out there, and not calling them boring all the time just for not being a big pop hit. But also people like Salvador must learn to respect every style of music, becaus pop is also valid and can be as deep as any other genre.

MS
MS
6 years ago
Reply to  Hsinaps

Agree!

TACV
TACV
6 years ago
Reply to  Hsinaps

Salvador never said that pop should be ablished or that he didn’t respect it … where in hell did you people read or heard that? He never ever spoke about pop music even ….

Mike
Mike
6 years ago
Reply to  Hsinaps

I think what’s funny is that people expect singers at ESC to just be phony, diplomatic plastic dolls, who say whatever they were told to say and just smile the whole time Salvador is just honest about what he believes and his musical preferences. Even when he arrived on the red carpet event, he said the house music that was playing was driving him crazy, he didn’t like it. We see all these people all over the internet doing the exact same thing every day: saying “I don’t like this song! Not my style!” etc, but then these same people… Read more »