Eurovision Wishlist: The Artists We Want To Sing For The Netherlands

Deep in the bowels of AvroTros HQ, “Operation Win Eurovision” is a go. They may have two successive top ten placings under their belt, but the Dutch broadcaster is taking no risks in its quest for the famous glass microphone. Rumour has it, they’ve already drawn up their very own wishlist for Vienna. We’d love to know who’s in consideration, but so far everything is all hush hush. However, despite the secrecy two names have already cropped up in the media – Alain Clark and Dotan. And according to Metro there’s at least one other name on the list. Who could it be? Have they even decided yet? Just in case they’re drawing blanks, we’ve created our very own wishlist to help them out (you’re welcome).

Top DJs

The days when the Netherlands’ biggest exports were tulips and clogs are long gone – now it’s all about the DJs. Tiësto, Nicky Romero, Afrojack, Hardwell, Armin van Buuren, Martin Garrix – all world famous, all Dutch, and all listed in DJ Mag’s Top 100. Any of these, and more besides, would be capable of creating a Eurovision stomper, but who would provide the vocals? Here’s a few possibilities.

Ladies of Soul

Isn’t it time for some former Eurovision stars to grace the contest once more? We think so, and why settle for one when y’all could have two plus a few friends! Step forward Ladies of Soul, the most super of all supergroups. Formed late last year, the group consists of Glennis Grace (2005), Edsilia Rombley (1998 and 2007), Berget Lewis, Trijntje Oosterhuis and saxophonist Candy Dulfer. So far they’ve only released one single together, but there’s inklings of more to come. The divas are certainly big enough to bring the title back to the low country, and when they’ve got the nation’s best singer in their ranks (Begret won the title in 2012), they should do it without even breaking a sweat. These women are the real deal!

Mr. Probz

Talking about the real deal, say hello to Dennis Princewell Stehr a.k.a. Mr. Probz. The rapper released his first major hit, “Waves” last summer. A year later and the song has not left the Dutch charts, while also conquering Europe. It even reached number one in the UK. Perseverance and the ability to win over a continent, now where might such qualities come in handy… send him to Vienna already!

Within Temptation

Their name always crops up, but every year they tell us they’re not interested. Yes, we’re talking about Within Temptation. Apparently, they might be willing to write a song, but that’s it. Or so we thought, for it recently emerged that their lack of interest was simply down to never being asked in the first place. Is this public declaration a sign that they are potentially in the shake-up for Austria? If they’re brave enough to write an entry, surely a few steps further on to the actual stage wouldn’t be that hard.

Esmée Denters

Should the Netherlands opt for someone who’s known all over the world? Because in that case, Esmée Denters could be an option. She found instant fame after uploading some videos to Youtube and was quickly snapped up by Justin Timberlake’s record label. The smash hits “Outta Here” and “Love Dealer” followed, but since then Ms. Denters has gone quite. Perhaps it’s time for a Eurovisual comeback?

Eva Simons

Another Dutch singer who briefly made it big worldwide, Eva Simons started her career as part of Raffish. Since leaving the group, she’s worked with Afrojack and most famously, will.i.am. The lady certainly has an amazing voice. Could she embark on yet another collaboration and earn the Netherlands a third consecutive appearance in the final?

Sharon Doorson

And while we’re on the topic of Raffish – Sharon Doorson. She disappeared off the radar upon leaving the band. But two years ago she returned. She’s gone on to release four top 40 singles, the best being “High On Your Love”.

Caro Emerald

Ladies and gentlemen, we present Queen Caro Emerald. Everything she touches turns to gold… or at least platinum, like her first album – six times! The record ultimately achieved a mind blowing 30 straight weeks at number one. “A Night Like This” and “Stuck” are probably her catchiest and best known songs. More of the same would be loved by the Eurovision crowd!

Lisa Lois

She’s already popped up in our Wednesday Wishlists, but we just couldn’t resist mentioning Lisa Lois again. “Silhouette” is a masterpiece, even if it didn’t top the charts. She has an awesome voice, and would do great at Eurovision.

Anouk

The last person on our list is very special – Anouk. She’s the lady who finally set the Netherlands on the right track at Eurovision, and in the process reignited Dutch interest in the contest. But she only came ninth. We know she could do even better, and we’ve got the perfect strategy to lure her back – jealousy. Because she hates Ilse DeLange, and since The Common Linnets managed to come second, Anouk has no choice but to return and do better than the country warbler. Go on Anouk, unleash your inner diva.

What do y’all think? Who is your favourite to wave the Dutch flag in Vienna next year? Vote in the poll and comment below.