Greece: Internal selection appears increasingly likely for Eurovision 2016

More than three months ago, ERT confirmed to wiwibloggs that Greece will appear at Eurovision 2016. Now rumors are swirling that ERT will buck recent tradition by using an internal selection to pick their entry for Stockholm. Nothing is confirmed, but one fact is certain — things are at a stand-still in Greece.

According to newsit.gr, ERT made some moves shortly after deciding on their participation. This included asking Eleonora Zouganeli to represent them, but apparently she said no. After that their Eurovision plans stalled — with suggestions that Eurovision was not even under discussion.

So it seems increasingly likely that Greece will once again select their representative in a rush, something that could easily lead to another disappointing result. Let’s hope a miracle happens and that a proper performer says yes.

Internal selection rumours

According to eurobluetv, ERT will ask Greek record companies to suggest artists for Eurovision 2016. From there, ERT will internally select the artist who will represent Greece in Stockholm.

When it comes to the song, one rumour says that ERT will host a national final to decide which song the chosen artist will perform at Eurovision. But it’s also rumoured that ERT doesn’t want the public involved in the selection and will internally select both the artist and the song. Try getting clarity from all of that…

While Greece normally chooses its entry with a national final, it has used an internal selection method twice in recent years, both times selecting Sakis Rouvas. In 2004, despite selecting another singer via a national final, Greece ultimately struck a deal with Rouvas and his song “Shake It”, which came third in Istanbul. In 2009 Rouvas was again announced as Greece’s representative, but his song “This Is Our Night” was selected via a national final. He placed seventh in Moscow.

ERT say nothing has been decided for 2016, which seems to confirm that the broadcaster has a long way to go before Stockholm.

On the positive side, the deadline for withdrawing without penalty has passed. It now makes more sense for Greece to stay in the competition than pay the penalty for a Grexit.

So what do you think? How should Greece select its act for 2016? Who do you think would be ideal to represent Greece?

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