Last year Norway seriously upped its game, taking Melodi Grand Prix to the next level with multiple semi-finals and a mega grand final in Trondheim. And today NRK showed it plans to keep the magic going as it reveals the artists who will compete in MGP 2021 — a contest it has billed as “the most important ever”. Following a year of isolation, we couldn’t agree more.

During a press conference that started at 12:30 CET on Monday, NRK revealed the six pre-qualified artists — who automatically advance to the grand final — and also the four artists who will be competing in the first semi-final this Saturday, January 16.

Head of Delegation Stig Karlsen is aiming high. He’s told Norwegian web site ESCNorge that he believes there are four songs in the contest that could win the actual Eurovision.

Melodi Grand Prix 2021: Live stream of artists presentation

 

Melodi Grand Prix 2021: Semi-Final 1 Artists

Stina Talling – “Elevate”

Jorn – “Faith Bloody Faith”

Blåsemafian – “Let Loose”

Beady Belle – “Playing With Fire”

MGP 2021: The 6 Pre-Qualified Acts

The semi-final in which each of the pre-qualified acts will first perform their song is indicated in brackets.

  • KEiiNO – “Monument” (To perform in first semi-final)
  • TIX – “Ut Av Mørket” (To perform in first semi-final)
  • stavangerkameratene – “Barndomsgater” (To perform in second semi-final)
  • Kaja Rode – “Feel Again” (To perform in third semi-final)
  • Atle Pettersen – “World On Fire” (To perform in fourth semi-final)
  • Rein Alexander – “Eyes Wide Open” (To perform in fifth semi-final)

About Melodi Grand Prix 2021

This year’s grand final will have 12 finalists, instead of the regular ten. Like last year, half of the finalists will be internally selected (pre-qualified) and half chosen through the semi-finals.

The number of finalists isn’t the only change from the format of 2020. The semi-finals won’t be based on regions this time — all six shows will take place in the H3 Arena, located in Fornebu just outside of Oslo.

However, the duel format of the semi-finals will be in place. In each semi-final, the acts will face off in two duels, then the winner of each duel will face another vote to win place in the grand final on February 20.

But that’s not the only way for a semi-finalist to get to the grand final. This year there will be a wildcard spot to fight for. In a special show the Sunday after the fifth semi-final, NRK will hold a special wildcard show. There, the 15 remaining acts will compete for one last chance to get to the grand final.

Are you excited about today’s artist reveal? Which act is exciting you the most? Let us know in the comments box below!

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RIKY Rodríguez
RIKY Rodríguez
3 years ago

It the best song!!! I love this song!!! Go Stina!!!

Edwardrs Martinez
Edwardrs Martinez
3 years ago

There is just a little mistake in the article. Just minor. The grand final last year was in Trondheim, not in Oslo as normally is.

Lasse
Lasse
3 years ago

JORN \m/

Last edited 3 years ago by Lasse
Joe
Joe
3 years ago

OK so far Faith Bloody Faith is my winner by miles, but let’s wait and see…

Kim Stian Tjelta Ellingsen
Kim Stian Tjelta Ellingsen
3 years ago

Last years grand final was it in Oslo, it was in Trondheim 🙂

Hyunwoo
Hyunwoo
3 years ago

I wish you all good luck!

Hyunwoo
Hyunwoo
3 years ago

I would like to see Adrian Jørgensen, or Magnus Bokn

Nils
Nils
3 years ago

the first verse of ‘faith bloody faith’ really reminds me of the sugababes’ ‘overload’, lol. both good songs, though.

Last edited 3 years ago by Nils
Loin dici
Loin dici
3 years ago

Guys, Rein will compete with a Mørland song. Let that sink in.

Alex
Alex
3 years ago

OMG KEIINO returning so soon! Didn’t see it coming.

I think they should have waited until 2022 or 2023. Doing it now is a bit too soon IMO.

However, I love their music and i think they got a big song. I love all of their singles which could’ve been perfectly staged in ESC.

Having said, I have a feeling they will not win but it’s fine as they have already done ESC.

From first SF, i like Jorn.

I think there will be plenty of good songs in the final.

Azaad
Azaad
3 years ago

The fact that Keiino aren’t performing in the last semi has me worried about their song…honestly I’m shocked they’re participating against. They have a lot of expectations to meet

Evan
Evan
3 years ago
Reply to  Azaad

I was initially thinking the same thing. Like if they performed in the last semi it would have gotten everyone anxious and excited for it. However, I think that Keiino is performing in the first semi to show that Melodi Grand Prix is not messing around this year. That and to get the fans excited about the other shows. Keep in mind that “Pray for Me” wasn’t even an auto-qualifier and “Attention” wasn’t performed in the last semi last year. Have some hope. All of Keiino’s songs are good. I’m certain this one will be too.

Sabrina
Sabrina
3 years ago

I think the instrumentation is intentional, to give it a retro vibe, but at the same time it gives me half-baked feelings. But yeah, not a bad song at all. I guess it’s just the one that will struggle more to find voters.

Kalla
Kalla
3 years ago

Uber excited that keiino are back, they’ve got a lot to live up to though this time. Also happy rein Alexander is having another go, I was shocked he didn’t win last year. Very excited for Saturday now!

KarmaLeon
KarmaLeon
3 years ago

I think putting rein alexander in the last semi final may augur something big 😉 i wouldnt put everything on keiino s victory before i heard all of them…

Héctor
Héctor
3 years ago

Don’t know. I’d probably go for Blåsemafian “Let Loose” but I can’t see a real winner.
About Keiino, I guess we’d have a winner if only Eurovision fans voted. I hope Norwegians have a different taste tbh.

MALTESER
MALTESER
3 years ago

I still think Raylee will be one of the Semi Finalists which is interesting as to how they pick the direct finalists. Are they the six best songs? Are they six songs that are the best of six different genres? Are they hype injections? Idk, thoughts?

Sabrina
Sabrina
3 years ago
Reply to  MALTESER

I would guess it works like a pre-wildcard. Those are entries the producers probably don’t want to risk being left out of the final. Maybe it’s because of the names involved and/or if they were directly invited to participate, maybe they just really trust those particular songs. I would like to hear an input on that also.

Ari
Ari
3 years ago

I think my pick from this SF is probably Elevate. I think it’s very well composed, and although the lyrics are a bit cliché, I think it’s probably the best of the bunch. Don’t get me wrong, though, Jorn would be very interesting to see on the finals stage or even the Eurovision stage.

Sabrina
Sabrina
3 years ago

These first 4 songs already bring more character than most of the semifinalists from last year. I’m always up for more rock in Eurovision and national finals, so “Faith Bloody Faith” caught my attention. It’s oldschool, but the Egyptian (I assume) touch gives it an unexpected side flavor. I also like “Elevate”. Nothing extraordinary about it, but it’s tasteful and effective. Curious to check “Let Loose” live, because those are some showy vocals.Seems like an entry that needs a stage to show all its potential. Even “Playing With Fire” is enjoyable, though I don’t see it moving to the final… Read more »

Esc fan
Esc fan
3 years ago

Well I listened to the songs and here’s my verdict

Elevate-5/10 it’s nice but it feels like it’s not doing much, would need a revamp imo

Faith bloody faith-1/10 this is obviously not my taste in music at all and I struggled to make it to the first minute tbh.

Let loose-6.5/10 this has potential, sounds like a sigala song in some aspects. The chorus is a bit flat though, needs a revamp for sure, but decent effort

Playing with fire-1/10 just boring and uneventful sadly 🙁

Dexter
Dexter
3 years ago

My top 4:
1.Jorn
2.Faith Bloody Faith
3.Faith Bloody Faith by Jorn
4.Jorn’s song Faith Bloody Faith

Yes
Yes
3 years ago

It’s really hard to make a top of this song, but I think Faith Bloody Faith will win the semi.
Overall, a good SF.

Denis
Denis
3 years ago

Not gonna lie: After only snippets listened Jorn is by far the best, miles above the rest. The rest wasnt that strong, mostly bland. Dont think a winner will come from here.

Balint
Balint
3 years ago

I really like this semi final! Norway seems to be coming strong again.

My top 4:

1, Elevate
2, Let Loose
3, Faith Bloody Faith
4, Playing With Fire

yuyo
yuyo
3 years ago

OK I am LOVING Elevate

Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago

horrendous first semi lol

Let Loose 2.5/10
Faith Bloody Faith 1.5/10
Playing with Fire 0.5/10

knew KeiiNo would return lol, i mean they are the only great norwegian act

Joe
Joe
3 years ago
Reply to  Nicky

Why are you still here when your comments are so needlessly mean?

MaelleForFra
MaelleForFra
3 years ago
Reply to  Nicky

I agree, stina was good though.

Lolek
Lolek
3 years ago

Not a bad first semi! Here are my personal rankings.

From a first listen, my personal favourite is Jorn with “Faith Bloody Faith”. Always a bit of a sucker for metal and this song does not disappoint.

My second choice is Stina Talling – “Elevate”. It sounds quite lovely. I’m curious to hear it live.
Third favourite is Blåsemafian – “Let Loose”. This could do quite well, especially if the singer has strong vocals.
Fourth place for me here is Beady Belle – “Playing With Fire”. It’s not bad but doesn’t particularly stand out for me.

Colin
Colin
3 years ago

First impression on semi 1 songs: Faith Bloody Faith – It has something ”epic” in it, but with an old school rock style. I actually feel this vibe. It might be too ecstatic at times. A bit slower build-up could serve a purpose here, LOL. 😉 Playing with Fire – Another 80s vibe song in this NF season. It’s pleasant, but it’s too low key for it’s style to leave a big impact. Let Loose – I like the horns. IDK what to think of the solo instrumental being the highlight… It might work on stage, it might not. Elevate… Read more »

Lolek
Lolek
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

I am surprisingly able to hear Elevate from Canada. Try again, it may be unblocked now?

Neil
Neil
3 years ago
Reply to  Lolek

Same from America

Sabrina
Sabrina
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin
Alfonso Moreno Domínguez
Alfonso Moreno Domínguez
3 years ago

How is nobody talking about the first semifinal acts? Honestly I think that they are way better than las year’s first semifinal’s.

Ashton
Ashton
3 years ago

come alive and wild beat all of the 2021 semi 1 songs hands down, but they are still good.

Colin
Colin
3 years ago
Reply to  Ashton

My *very first opinion* (which might change afterwards) is that Wild and Come Alive are better than these three (I still have to listen to Elevate, aside of a snippet). But apart from maybe Playing with Fire, they are all more interesting than Talking About Us.

Ashton
Ashton
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

agreed.

Kris
Kris
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

I actually like talking about us . Lol

Colin
Colin
3 years ago
Reply to  Kris

It’s certainly not a bad song. Perhaps too safe and typical, but I can totally understand people liking it. 😉

On the other hand, The Start of Something New, Mr. Hello and I Am Gay… yeah, those aren’t good…

Kris
Kris
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

The start of something new and mr hello made me switch of my stream .

Regina Phalange
Regina Phalange
3 years ago
Reply to  Kris

I absolutely love Talking About Us, that kind of sweet pop is exactly my style

Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago

because they are dull, also wig wam frontman composed that cringey disaster for Jorn LOL, time wig wam retire from music industry for good

Pineaple
Pineaple
3 years ago
Reply to  Nicky

No disrespect intended… but why are you so rude in these comment sections all the time?

Bango
Bango
3 years ago

Finland will reveal the UMK artists on wednesday and Finland will finish top 10 in ESC 2021.

Last edited 3 years ago by Bango
Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago
Reply to  Bango

yes with Krista, a top 10 finish <3

Joe
Joe
3 years ago
Reply to  Bango

This you know from nothing

Gurlblossum
Gurlblossum
3 years ago

WE ALL READY KNOW KEINNO IS GOING TO WIN IN THIS BLYAT SOOO STAHHP THE VOTING

Last edited 3 years ago by Gurlblossum
ChEs
ChEs
3 years ago
Reply to  Gurlblossum

Why would they win? They won in such a bad national selection. If Norway has some bops, like they had last year, I think it will be hard for Keiino to win only because of their result at ESC. Let’s wait and hear all the songs and then we will see.

Yes
Yes
3 years ago
Reply to  Gurlblossum

There is the curse of former ESC participants… They rarely make it to Eurovision via a NF, as it’s so hard to do so even once.
For me, i want Rein Alexander to win. I can’t wait to hear his song, and i’m more hyped because this time he is PQ.

Colin
Colin
3 years ago

Ulrikke will either be a presenter or an interval act. Perhaps both.

Ashton
Ashton
3 years ago

all of semi 1’s songs are actually not bad to good! elevate is a cute little pop ballad with some great melodies, fate bloody faith is an Egyptian-flavoured metal song that surprisingly works, blasemafian is a complete bop filled with horns, and playing with fire feels like the debut single of a band teacher, but even then it’s still passable.

Frisian esc
Frisian esc
3 years ago
Reply to  Ashton

That debut single of a band teacher remark is strangely accurate.

Lebanese esc fan
Lebanese esc fan
3 years ago

Yesss Norway did That! I like all four semi final songs! “Elevate” is a very pleasant uplifting pop offering with some really motivational lyrics, “Let Loose” might feature sparse lyrics but the trumpet-led instrumentation is very infectious, “Faith Bloody Faith” has a very cool instrumental segment in the middle which almost seems egyptian in a way? I’m not sure but I like it. And “Playing with Fire” seemed like a cross of several genres including some jazz elements and retro vibes. I’m so excited for Keiino!!! Omg hope they will slay!

Chris
Chris
3 years ago

Blåsemafian’s song is just *chef kiss*. Norway won with a song mostly instrumental before, why not again? It brings the party anyway, and we all need that.

person
person
3 years ago

Feel like TIX could leed to a Bilal Hassani situation. This guy has a lot of fans.

Erasmus
Erasmus
3 years ago

Well this line-up is a disappointed. Keiino were great, but this is too soon for them I think, usually I do not mind returning acts, but they are kind of an act I would like to see at Eurovision only once, they have nothing more to earn imo, the jury will never rank them high enough to achieve top 3. Kinda excited for Kaja Rode, all others – no words – Rein Alexander like really?

Colin
Colin
3 years ago
Reply to  Erasmus

I am totally hyped for Keiino, even if it feels really soon for a band *this sucessful*. I was mentioning Agnete and Stella, because they have talent which either wasn’t appreciated at the time (Agnete) or has developed since (Stella). Keiino were practically perfect in 2019 and will likely be just as perfect now, but it might be a bit soon. Still, I could never complain about Keiino. 😉

Erasmus
Erasmus
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

I mean I’m excited about their song, saw the artwork for the song and it looks really good… We’ll see, just hope Rein doesn’t win.

And yes it’d be great so Agnete or Stella back love them both…

I just miss those dark songs from Norway e.g. 2013, 2014, 2015 and 2016 and then they kinda stopped.

Tom
Tom
3 years ago
Reply to  Erasmus

I don’t think that Agnete will come back, she revealed that she was under pressure back in 2016 ….

Tom
Tom
3 years ago
Reply to  Erasmus

Yeah too early another Joci Papai 2.0 similar results if the win

Srdjan30
Srdjan30
3 years ago
Reply to  Tom

I personally don’t think so. Keiino are much popular with the fandom than Joci.

Tom
Tom
3 years ago
Reply to  Srdjan30

Yeah same story like Dana, Joci or Alexander they already been there …

Idksmth
Idksmth
3 years ago

I didn’t expect Keiino. So I guess it’s safe to say that Keiino will go to Rotterdam this year.

Bryn
Bryn
3 years ago

I have a suspicion that raylee is also one of them

Bart
Bart
3 years ago

I love to see Helene Boksle with a song like Svalbard of Bifrost. Morland is always welcome. I want to hear an enchanting song.

Last edited 3 years ago by Bart
Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago

no, i think few bigger names are pre-qualified acts

maybe Kurt Nilsen, would be fun to have our world idol winner back

Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago

Rein Alexander pls back <3

Colin
Colin
3 years ago
Reply to  Nicky

He’s back! So is Keiino! I wasn’t expecting them so soon, but of course that I’m hyped!

Nicky
Nicky
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

Rein with Morland as composer <3

Colin
Colin
3 years ago
Reply to  Nicky

You are right. Morland and Ingebrigtsen, the team being Attention, is now composting for Rein Alexander. Call me intrigued. 🙂

Sabrina
Sabrina
3 years ago
Reply to  Colin

I was already excited for Rein coming back, because even if his song wasn’t my favorite last year, he gave a great show to us. Knowing that now he has Morland on his side, I’m excited to check his song out.

Colin
Colin
3 years ago

Some preliminary wishes of mine would include Agnete coming back for a revenge and Raylee bringing that heat! Of course, Morland is always welcome as a performer, songwriter or both. Another performer I’d like to see back is Stella Mwangi. Haba Haba is cute in a childish way, but judging by her duet with Alexandra a few years ago, she can obviously do more.

Žilvinas
Žilvinas
3 years ago

MGP final was held in Trondheim last year, not Oslo ?

ABC
ABC
3 years ago

Yes!

James
James
3 years ago

Apparently one of the semi-finalist songs was leaked (Stina Talling – Elevate)
https://open.spotify.com/track/7DAQL4dj7J2UAGoCn1pyDk?si=NnjJzkBxSqWlnesH39MvOw

Lolek
Lolek
3 years ago

Any chance we’ll get previews of the SF1 songs with this announcement?

Stian F
Stian F
3 years ago

I am super excited this year before the release of this years names!!! I hope and do suspect there might be some big surprising names among them, as many artists wont be able to showcase themselves truly other than through a show like MGP the first half of this year ? I do suspect that Sandra Lyng Haugen is among the names, and also Vegard Bjørsmo, whom both took part in Stjernekamp this year. Also I do think Julie Bergan could be one of the names, and maybe even a return of Maria Haukaas Mittet. My dream would be the… Read more »

dmg
dmg
3 years ago
Reply to  Stian F
Stian F
Stian F
3 years ago
Reply to  dmg

Oh yeah that would have been great, but he would have definitely been prequalified so unfortunately not this year ?

Stian F
Stian F
3 years ago
Reply to  Stian F

Oh how wrong i was ????? no big names at all… Return of KEiiNO is the biggest… What a disappointment overall. But then again… Lets wait for the songs ?