Tonight, Israel‘s Eden Alene will perform her four potential entries for Eurovision 2020. After all four songs are performed on the Neve Ilan stage, the Israeli public televote and jury votes will decide Eden’s entry for Rotterdam. But which song should win The Next Song for Eurovision? The Wiwi Jury — our in-house panel of music unprofessionals — has listened to the five songs and ranked their favourites. Read on to see what we think!
Antranig
1. “Rakata”
This is tremendously difficult to rank because any of these four songs would be a monumental step up in quality for Eurovision 2020. However, “Rakata” or “Roots” are the two that could put Israel right back into contention. Both songs are extremely catchy but “Rakata” is my favourite as it feels more authentic to Eden. I’ve never had the luxury to say this before but I really don’t care what wins this national final — Eden is going to slay regardless.
2. “Roots”
3. “Feker libi”
4. “Savior in the Sound”
Åri
1. “Savior in the Sound”
We really need more songs like “Savior in the Sound” in Eurovision. Sure, we have had songs with late musical twists in them, but this is something that was never seen before. It leaves you on the edge of your seat, kind of teasing you about something that will happen soon. Then, it happens, 15 seconds before the end of the song — and it is so worth the wait. I’d say my only regret is that this bit isn’t longer, but maybe that’s the whole beauty of it. I have no doubt Eden will slay this live, and hopefully change the public’s lukewarm opinion on it.
2. “Rakata”
3. “Roots”
4. “Feker libi”
Barnabas
1. “Rakata”
Judging by the song itself and the past national final results, this is the almighty bop that we’ve been waiting for. It has everything needed to light up the arena — the sass, the vocals, and the perfect blend of African and Middle Eastern elements. Let’s bring the party to Rotterdam, y’all!
2. “Feker libi”
3. “Roots”
4. “Savior in the Sound”
Florian
1. “Rakata”
“Rakata” embraces all of the Israeli identity with a modern and upbeat track. Eden’s personality gets to shine the most in this song. Moreover, the dance break is particularly impressive and would make a great contrast to many of the ballads chosen so far for Rotterdam. Stylistically, it stands out from what’s presented in this selection. The instrumental part at the end of the track could serve for some fierce visuals and choreography to give it that cherry on top.
2. “Feker libi”
3. “Roots”
4. “Saviour in the Sound”
Pablo
1. “Feker libi”
It is clear that all songs sound as if they have taken inspiration from past Eurovision trends. However, this one is interesting. While “Roots” is more Netta and “Rakata” is more Laurell Barker, “Feker libi” is quite detached from the song I’d say is most similar to it, “Haba Haba”. In a way, instead of sounding inspired by it, I’d say it’s more of an improved, more authentic version; the African instrumentals coming strong, finishing strong and having an inherently interesting language mix. It’s by far my favourite and the one that sounds the most Eden of the bunch.
2. “Rakata”
3. “Roots”
4. “Savior in the Sound”
Robyn
1. “Roots”
I love how weird the chorus of “Roots” is. The song starts off so innocuously, a pleasant, sunny tune with a message before the obnoxious chorus explodes. But as Eden sings, “Just take me as I am or let me go”. But it’s not just pleasant vs weird. The song builds to a strong, defiant statement, as Eden celebrates all the different facets of what makes her her. Most importantly, the song has a lot of potential for staging greatness, promising to come alive even more on the Eurovision stage.
2. “Feker libi”
3. “Rakata”
4. “Savior in the Sound”
What do you think? Which song is your favourite? What should Eden sing in Rotterdam? Let us know in the comments below!
According to the live performances it must be roots, please!!!
I cant believe im saying it but it was the best by far…..please!!!
Live Broadcast: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pabZg-6fqIg
I gotta say I don’t know Robyn but the more I read her opinions the more I like her!
I don’t think that Israel will be high with the bookies. It’s “too soon” for it to win again and I believe KAN are not trying to win either. So they won’t promote this with all their might like they did with Toy. I think that without the win of 2018 some of those songs could be contenders but I really feel like people will vote more for countries that never won and not for the one that just hosted.
You don’t see the connection? Israel got 35 points last year (0 from the juries) while Serhat, a dentist that sounds like an exhaust pipe got 77. People and juries tend to ignore recent winners. Public also in love with the idea of a country that never won finally winning. Even Sweden is failing with the public despite sending decent entries because it’s “too successful in recent years”.
Home was extremely weak song in a very strong year + Israel was hosting.
I stand with Charles the II, I feel like fans secretly rooting for Israel but afraid to show it for some reason.
Is there a link for the live show ?
I think “Roots” is so underrated. Its so so good. I like all the songs but I just cant stop singing “Roots”!!!
They are all really good. Anyone except “Savior in the Sound” is a TOP5 for me, and with a good staging & buzz even a winner.
Most songs are great, I really can’t choose between them so I gave up on this jury 🙂
Feker Libi! Please, Israel.
I know “Rakata” is very easy on most people’s ears, but I feel “Feker libi” and “Roots” are much much more interesting.
Feker libi!
Okay, my first impression is that Rakata, Feker libi and Roots are all very happy and energetic which suits this lovely young lady. I cannot decide which is my favorite just yet.
*suits
Roots is such a bop: crazy, fun, weird. I hope it wins, but I’m also fine with any of the other songs winning, they’re all good. Israel and Romania proved this year that a national final with one singer and different songs can be more interesting than classic NFs.
“Feker libi” is very special (five different languages, impressive).
Rakata is good as well.
mess at everyone except one person having “savior in the bottom of the scoreboard” last! i’d be happy with any of the other three songs, but “feker libi” is my personal favorite.
Feker libi is my favorite. No suprise Idan Raichel and Doron Medaile wrote it , means it has to be amazing.
Rakata is my second fav. Great song aswell
I haven’t listen to the other songs but Feker Libi all the way.
Rakata or Feker Libi would be excellent choices but there’s just something so out there with Roots that I think it’s hard to pass up. Knowing what kind of entries are being picked by other countries, it becomes even more appealing.
I think Rakata would win but let’s face it, all four would do well regardless! Israel didn’t came to play!
All are amazing but Feker Libi is the one that I want it to represent Israel. Savior of the Sound I think is the weakest but still Powerful
Roots or nothing.
I have the exact same top as Robyn!
I think Antranig said it best there “I really don’t care what wins this national final — Eden is going to slay regardless” I love Roots but I’ll love any of the four that make it…
Feker Libi or Roots all the way!
My favourite is Feker libi but (I’m so happy to say it) I’ll be happy with any of the 4 songs, Israel slays this year!