She’s sold 300 million records worldwide and won seven Grammy awards.
And in May, Madonna will add another accolade to her illustrious career when she performs as an interval act at the Eurovision Song Contest 2019.
Israeli outlet Haaretz revealed the news today, reporting the star has been paid a $1m fee and will perform a two song-set.
Billionaire businessman Sylvan Adams has stepped in to foot the bill for the material girl.
Madonna at Eurovision 2019
First reports that KAN had approached the global icon to be the primary interval act for Eurovision 2019 in mid-January.
Madonna has strong connections with Israel, including her Israeli manager, Guy Oseray, her Hebrew name Esther – adopted back in 2004 – and her well-known connection to Kabbalah.
The performance will mark her fourth in Israel and first concert in seven years. The star last sang in Israel back in 2012.
The “Vogue” hit maker is expected to be joined by 160-person in Tel Aviv and will arrive four days before the Grand Final takes place.
Ynet reports that Assaf Blecher will be responsible for her appearance in Israel. His past credits include producing coverage of the red carpet at the American Music Awards and the Oscars.
Ynet also says the live production company has teased that two further artists may appear during Madonna’s performance. The star has previously shared the stage with artists including Nicki Minaj, Britney Spears and Christina Aguilera.
Speaking about the news of his donation of the concert to the contest Sylvan Adams said:
“I am excited and proud to host Madonna in Israel and bring her to the Eurovision. I believe that her participation in the event will dramatically enhance the media exposure that the State of Israel will receive and will contribute significantly to the success of the Eurovision Song Contest and the branding of Israel in the world.”
Madonna follows in the footsteps of previous interval acts including Aqua and Justin Timerblake.
Are you excited about the news? What do you want Madonna to sing in Tel Aviv? Let us know in the comments below!
I have been to one of her concerts and she didn’t sound well live. That was 14 years ago…I wonder how she is going to sound next month. Will she sing live?
israel be using that much money to pay for an amazing yet totally UNRELATED star to the contest, than to actually pay for police and security. lmao.
They’re not the ones paying for Madonna, a Jewish billionaire from Canada is. They’d be stupid to not snatch an opportunity like that
From Salvador and Caetano Veloso to…Madonna…
Ok… theres space for everyone at the eurovision stage
Madonna is a huge international star, Israel want to host something totally inside ESC mainstream, they want to show they are “popy” and “cool” Its ok for me. Its good to have some differences from edition to edition…
But I really hope ESC do not lost the cultural heritage approach and world music concept from Lisbon 2018
Have fun!
eurovision is only for gays? Or do you think the majority of tv audience will be gay people?
Most of the loyal Eurovision fans are gay. I mean fans, not viewers. Eurovision its kind of gay pride if you ever been there.
She will be singing two songs: Frozen – Sorry – Into the Groove medley and her new single.
One classic hit + one new song, not a medley! they were clear…
Since it’s official, Madonna needs to take MARUV to appear with her on the stage with Siren Song or at least make a tribute for her and sing it and then everyone are satisfied, not like that?
she’s so haaawwwwt
Madonna will be a great addition to the the final, an international star to put some hype and glam into the show. She’ll perform for like 8 minutes out of a 40 minutes interval, that would leave plenty of time for local talents, not to mention the opening act of the final and also during the semis.
For one side, it could be good for the international aspirations of some artists, like for example, whoever wins. But for other, I’m kinda in the ‘the interval act should be about the host country and their artists’ thought camp. We see that in Stockholm, Justin Timberlake was hailed as big featured act, by up to this day, most of the people remembers more Love Love Peace Peace than him.
What you wrote about 2016 just shows that an international star performing doesn’t mean the locals won’t put on an unforgettable interval act as well.
Madonna will add buzz and she’ll definitely give a kickass performance, and the Israeli’s will have enough time to show off their local talent – which I hope they’ll use wisely.
I don’t get it … she actually demands 1.3 million dollars to present her new single to 100 millions of tv viewers? Really???
It should rather be the other way around. Especially since she didn’t have much of an impact on the singles charts for almost a decade now.
Bring back the weirdos singing on ladders! At least they were cheap.
She’s not gonna see much of this money anyway! From the latest news it looks like she’s bringing a group of 60 dancers with her, and she’s planning something big for this occasion that will cost a lot too. She said she’s doing it because of her love for Israel and not for the money at all.
I think this money will mostly go for the costs of the show. At least this part is covered by private investor so I’m ok with whatever she demands.
My god some Eurofans are impossible to please, get over it! Madonna is a GREAT choice for Eurovision, an international spice for a competition that could use it. Can’t wait to see her live on the ESC stage!
Great! but I hope … next year Within Temptations as interval cat during the final 😛 🙂 😛
meow
What is interesting is that her new song has Portuguese influences because she is recording with Portuguese based artists. Kinda ironic…
theres nothing ironic there…Portugal never invited her to perform in Lisbon 2018
She should retire, she is too much artificial and it is getting awkward
I think you confuse her with Taylor Swift or Lady Gaga
I’d prefer Taylor or Gaga, though. Madonna is so 2000s
Talor and Gaga are so … nothing. Random pop singers without charisma. Why do you prefer that for Eurovision?
I am fan of Madonna since very early age and I saw her life three times now. But I don’t like the fact she is participating. Not for her (I’m sure she will do an amazing show) it’s because of this ostentatious attitude of the Israeli state wanting to show off its money and be better than anyone else. Disgusting atitude.
Disgusting comment. Madonna will do it because she’s a professional who wants to promote her music. She loves Israel so…
Israel’s businessman is doing his best to bring glory to the show and his country so I see nothing bad about that. I mean timberlake appeared in Stockholm so why not Madonna in israel??
Great. I will be happy.
This is amazing news. cant understand anyone who complain about it.
Madonna is amazing. A true icon that will preform only 2 songs and will receuit A LOT of attention to this year ESC (which let be honest, is quiet weak…) Very smart move by Israel. We can all enjoy our great traditions with a snippet of non-european artist. just chill…
Well done Israel!!! It seems You are building an insane Eurovision!!! It will be crazy OMGGG.
Tel-Aviv is the optimal City to have a party that will rock all day and all night for Eurovision week!!!
So excited 🙂
maybe with some bombs exploding in the background to boost up the atmosphere
Paris and Brussels (for example) have suffered more terror and more terror casualties than Tel Aviv over the last decade, but I bet it wouldn’t have even crossed your mind to mention terrorism if the contest would have taken place there. Now my dear melody please take a some time for introspection and try to figure out why this is so.
Mr. Adams you should fund Maruv’s participation in tel aviv instead!!!!
Agreed. But at least, I think MARUV and Madonna should sing together Siren Song and another song that Madonna will choose. I guess it will be her new single…
I support rt everything that make ESC more interesting and higher the quality of the show. I’m not a fan of the idea that everything should be the way it always has been. Something I think a lot of hardcore escfans want.
United States of America zero points !!!
Bring MARUV, please. After Madonna it should be an easy task.
No one is waiting for Maruv. Except for a couple of fans here. Nobody knows her and she isn’t halftime material.
Yeah, well, you know, that’s just, like, your opinion, man…
I like Madonna very much, but I think the Eurovision interval act should be quintessential entrainment from the host national Just like we had 25 years again in Dublin. Imagine then if we’d had, say, R Kelly that year instead of Riverdance. I also think that US acts get enough coverage on all platforms, at the cost of acts from Eurovision countries. This should be their time in the sun.
Having said all that, I look forward to seeing what she does.
I agree and I really hope she wouldn’t just perform her own stuff but rather something that is related to her personally but also to Israel and its culture.
Wow!!! Can’t wait!!! She can sing anything she wants. She’s MADONNA ??????????
?????
Okay, but…why?
I’m saying this as an American, but not even WE really care about her anymore.
She’s no longer relevant.
Depends. She had a concert on my turf not too long ago and fans came in droves to the concert venue. She’s never t relevant for those who don’t care, but they are for those who do and those people are what sustain someone’s career for a very long time.
Sting continuing to play to this day is a good example of that.
I get that it’s just….I haven’t heard anyone speak her name in basically forever. And if someone does, it’s certainly not about something she has done currently.
I’m a little surprised they didn’t get anyone more current than her, but I guess you take what you can get?
I don’t think she’s as sought after in the US for events anymore since other artists are more popular rn, but idk maybe Europe is different.
Haha, she still has sold out shows all over the world. Something that almost all ‘current’ artists can only dream of. And yes, she is still very relevant in Europe … and Latin and South America and Asia. But less in America, because they prefer artists that draw in between the lines. The boring girl-next-doors. Still, she is the best selling artist in the world.
Don’t forget that it’s not like Madonna is just some random artist, it wouldn’t be the same as bringing Beyonce. She does have a special connection to Israel and to its culture.
I totally agree! It’s criminal to pay her $1 million to do this – she’s irrelevant and has nothing to do with Eurovision.
Talking about irrelevant … this comment!
as a fellow american, i can confirm that no one cares about madonna anymore, but if europe is quaking then thats all that matters
oh heaven I think I’m falling
falling, falling I’m in heaven falling…straight into your heaaaaaaaaaaart
D-Mol featuring Madonna MAKE IT HAPPEN!!!
Madonna and Hatari Mashup would be fun.
Again! I don’t understand the hate! This is another possibility to make Eurovision more known around the world and don’t we won’t that? And why is the hate towards Madonna ( and I am not a big fan ) so much stronger than towards Justin Timberlake??
Why do we need Eurovision to be known all around the world. It’s EUROvision. Not AMERICAvision.
Because it’s awesome 🙂
The so-called hate is much stronger because it’s a mix of sexism (woman) and ageism (60yo).
I recommend you all to listen to her 2016 Billboard Woman Of The Year speech:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c6Xgbh2E0NM
NO! I don’t want Americans to Eurovision. Let’s keep this our thing. For once, please.
Americans aren’t gonna be watching Eurovision in large numbers anyway since you guys make it almost impossible for us to watch
geez, how many times do i have to keep telling people this…
Really?
Americans are more European than Azeri or Armenians
Let’s keep freedom and tolerance
Ask why France and Italy represent refugees if you wanna save “OUR Thing”
For me my thing it’s without any doubt -MUSIC without borders, nations or countries, just ART
Respect people
Azerbaijan and Armenia are European countries. Why would Americans be more European? The USA doesn’t belong to Europe. Mahmood and Bilal have been born in their countries to Italian and French mothers. The USA has already so many shows. They don’t need this one.
Ooh boy, like talking to a wall, isn’t it.
Stop worrying about Americans taking over or ruining the show or whatever! Like, less than 0.5% of Americans even watch Eurovision. You’re worrying about a problem that honestly does NOT exist.
“They don’t need this one.”
Too bad! I got myself a VPN, and now I’m going to watch the contest because listening to music from different countries and experiencing other cultures brings me joy.
“Americans are more European than Azeri or Armenians”
Excuse me sir but this is the dumbest thing I have heard this month. Lol
But you’re ok with Australia
Madonna is more European than American. She doesn’t like America and Americans don’t like her. What’s wrong with having a big icon gracing Eurovision stage?? It’s extra publicity for the contest itself.
Finally, a good souce of funding the contest. Thank you, Mr. Adams.
This comment section is ridiculous. The most influential living artist is getting this hatred.
I don’t see anyone hating on Paul McCartney?
Sure, she has a lot of influence, but uhhhhh I’m pretty sure that the 3 remaining living members of Queen have had more of a lasting impact on music than her, just saying
Dream on!
Calm down, she wont be the only interval act. The time of having only one interval act is long gone, she is only one of several acts. They have both her and Israeli artists, all four Israeli ESC winners will perform as well.
A lot of ESC fans are fans of hers too. She will perform two songs and that’s that. No need for drama..
Now as long as she sings Like A Prayer I’m satisfied..
Probably gonna do a medley, then the lead single.
Well for a start I’d like to see her do something within the contest rules. Live vocals, only six on stage, song not performed publicly before September 1. That won’t happen, will it?
She’ll play a churn of her signature hits and probably debut a new one.
Well, she will perform a new single. That’s before September 1 rule I guess..
You must be mistaken… ‘Like a Prayer’ is not a Swedish song so you cannot listen to it, it might make your ears bleed.
I’d much rather preferred a mashup of their 2005,2010,2013,2014,2015,2016, and 2017 acts.
The curious thing is that it will happen in a moment when Eurovision can do more for Madonna than Madonna can do for Eurovision, though I can see it working well for both. I would go in a different direction, but it’s not my money and not even EBU’s money so… why not? It may be fun.
This is just ridiculous. She’s soooo gonna playback , i just can’t lol. I thought KAN would come up with something refreshing, but this is such a let down.
If you think the best performer in the world is a let down, I’m curious about what you would suggest.
best performer when? 2 decades ago maybe
We will have all previous israeli winners, SHALVA group, netta and yardena arzi who opened the 1979 eurovision opening his year’s final. There are two semis to fill.
tbh as someone from the US, I’m a little disappointed? Like, I go through the trouble of trying to find a way to watch Eurovision because I like hearing music from other countries and getting to know new musicians i’ve never heard of.
I don’t want to watch some american singer i’m already very familiar with…that’s not what i turn on eurovision for.
Maybe you’re lucky and it’s blocked again in the states like with Justin Timberlake back then. In that case go to youtube and watch better interval acts from the last years like Norways Flashmob or Swedens Love, Love, Peace, Peace. 😀
What a great news! The best performer in the world and the only real pop icon in the world left will perform at Eurovision. Can’t wait.
Oh God!!! People!!! RELAX!!!! There will be plenty of Israeli artists and Jewish culture showing in the semi-finals and the final show!!! It’s not all about Madonna, but I personally am excited to see her taking part in this, and it’s just a little gift to all of us. All of you saying it’s gonna be a great toilet break for you, you are all liars, and will probably watch her with tons of amazement and excitement. CAN’T WAAAAAAIT!!!!!
However I still would have preferred an artist with links to Israel or Jewish .
You’ll get that in both semis
Okay but the FINAL performer should be from the host country too.
You do know there’s more than one performer, right?
Great news for the contest, it will be exposed outside Europe!
I hope she performs Hung Up due to the Abba reference but she’ll probably do a classic single from 80s like the Prayer.
I hope she goes to the green room and jokes around with the contestants !
this is good promo for her as she will embark on an EU tour.
Fingers crossed Celine Dion wll do Eurovision in the following years
she will preform a new song
I wouldn’t count on it being exposed outside Europe very much.
When Justin Timberlake performed in 2016, …it was cut out of the American broadcast of the final, despite the fact that Justin is literally an American.
So really, we can’t be positive that Madonna’s performance will even be available to view for those outside Europe.
Give us a super bowl 2012 style performance And I will be happy !
If she doesn‘t perform hung up…
Fine. Madonna can perform. As long as he gives those million dollars to charity.
A billionaire spending $1m on Madonna’s appearance in a song contest. Yeah. Humans are dumb indeed smh.
And in Timberlake’s Sweden do you think he came for 14.9$ and a McDonald’s meal?! Cant remember anyone compalning about it back than! STOP BEING HYPROCITE IDIOTS.
is her new song she is performing from her upcoming album that she recorded in Portugal, inspired by the Portuguese music scene and in collaboration with Portuguese artists/musicians/writers? because that would totally be a good reflection of the state of Israel
Yes, her new álbum has influence of portuguese music
I’m ok with it
Guys you have to remember this is a TV SHOW and rating is of utmost importance. Maddonna is a name that brings lots of viewers and add prices would sky rocket which brings in money. I did not want her as interval but i understand it.
And for all those calling for maruv… Do you really think Israel would poke an eye in ukrainian eyes??
Toilet break! Couldn’t care a monkey!
God with pussy is coming .aleluyah.she is the bigger
Why are you all so anti? I think this shows how international Eurovision can be that even worldwide artists such as Justin Timberlake in the past performed at Eurovision.
HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN IN EUROVISION! I am ready to take a bow!
For the haters i have one thing to say: Eat dirt and die !
Thank you ror publicly announcing everyones bathroom break during the final.