After a two-year wait, a global pandemic and countless national finals, Semi-Final 1 of Eurovision 2021 is finally here. On 18 May at 21:00 CET, 16 countries will vie for just ten spots in the grand final. All of the competing artists are performing live inside of Rotterdam Ahoy except for one. Australia’s broadcaster decided that its singer Montaigne would stay at home owing to the risk of bringing coronavirus back to the country. Instead, producers will air her live-on-tape recording, which was filmed in Sydney this spring. But don’t worry: her stage show still looks sick.
Now, as the artists slip into their tightest pants and warm up their wind machines, it’s time for you to grab your popcorn and adult beverages. Let’s do this!
Eurovision 2021: Semi-Final 1 Preview
🇱🇹 Lithuania: The Roop — “Discoteque”
The Roop — Lithuania’s musical act of the moment — are known for their weird, hard-to-describe sonic flourishes. “Discoteque” is no different. The toe-tapping number comes with haunting production that pulsates and bounces on the border with darkness. Despite that vibe, the “Discoteque” lyrics are all about seeing the light and lifting yourself up from whatever is holding you back. Everyone is welcome at this discoteque, which is deliberately spelled without the letter h — this is a dance floor all its own. Fans have suggested it’s perfect for the pandemic — “it is OK to dance alone,” they sing. But the band say this is more about self-affirmation and accepting yourself and your body, and having the confidence to shake it all by yourself.
Memorable lyrics: “My body’s shaking, heart is breaking, have to let it go.”
🇸🇮 Slovenia: Ana Soklic — “Amen”
Lyrically, “Amen” is about learning to persevere in the face of adversity. Ana sings to a child, telling them they’ll “get beaten and bruised” and “scarred unto your core.” Some will find the gospel vibe and repetition of “hallelujah” inspiring and uplifting. The same people may well find this a little “heard-it-all-before” too. No matter. Ana is a master vocalist who works her lower register with the precision of Annie Lennox yet still manages to hit those mezzo-soprano highs. The staging includes a glorious Earth in the background which is reflected on the floor. At times it reminds us of a telecoms commercial — golden markers pop up across that glorious sphere.
Memorable lyrics: “Hey child, why ya hiding from the light?”
🇷🇺 Russia: Manizha — “Russian Woman”
Manizha opens with one of the most memorable visuals of the year: She sings from inside an oversized Russian doll. Controlled remotely, she glides across the stage and spins before opening a door in her dress. She emerges in a factory worker’s outfit — it’s at once throwback but somehow contemporary — announcing that she’s casting off the stereotypes of yesterday and is ready to slay as a modern “Russian Woman”. Just as Manizha reaches the spiritual chanting portion of her song, a giant image of an Orthodox-style religious icon appears on screen. Eventually Manizha kneels on the ground and sings to a wall filled with one hundred inspirational women of all sexualities and skin tones. It’s a powerful moment in which she calls on them to believe in themselves. “You’re strong enough!” she frequently chants. We’d like to add that Manizha is too.
Memorable lyrics: “You’re strong enough to break the wall.”
🇸🇪 Sweden: Tusse — “Voices”
The opening shot of Tusse walking on digital water is a come-to-Jesus moment: You can’t help but go silent and get ready for the Scandipop sermon! Tusse is a vision in velvet and diamonds and glamour, yet when he sings you hear the wisdom of a survivor and former refugee who understands struggle and what it’s like to be dragged through the mud. It’s this grit — along with his total authenticity and freedom of movement — that elevates this above all the other generic songs about haters. He sings, yes, but you also get the sense he’s speaking directly to you and from his heart. We may have heard it all before, but we haven’t heard it this good.
Memorable lyrics: “Can’t stop us now forget the haters.”
🇦🇺 Australia: Montaigne — “Technicolour”
Not wanting to bring Covid back to Australia — which has done an admirable job taming the pandemic — the country’s Eurovision broadcaster decided its team would be staying home. Thankfully Montaigne was able to film a performance from SBS studios to air in place of a live performance and boy did she deliver! It uses light to great effect — Montaigne absorbs it and gives it off — moving from darkness to Technicolour fantasy. The hyperpop genre can feel loud and cluttered. To many, this will all seem disjointed and jarring, but to others, it will be a stroke of genius held together by one hell of a performer. For now, I’ll side with the latter camp.
Memorable lyrics: “We got style and lasers, yeah, time to take off your cloaks.”
🇲🇰 North Macedonia: Vasil — “Here I Stand”
Vasil’s “Here I Stand” may sound like a Disney ballad. But the technologically advanced performance speaks very much of sophistication. Vasil starts in the darkness and we see a golden heart projected onto his body. Eventually golden stardust emerges from behind him and bursts from his heart, as if our man is disintegrating into the universe. But in breaking apart he also becomes whole — Vasil grows in confidence and belts it out, putting his operatic training on full display. The most memorable moment comes toward the end when a white light refracts from Vasil’s mirrored vest. It’s an explosion of light that provides a memorable climax.
Memorable lyrics: “They all tried to break us, not knowing it’s what makes us.”
🇮🇪 Ireland: Lesley Roy — “Maps”
With its honest lyrics and sincere delivery, “Maps” reads like poetry: “Thought I was done, but I got it wrong, I fell twice, I’m twice as strong.” Lesley wraps that message up in equally inspiring sounds — strings, guitar, drums and electronic flourishes come together in a swell of positivity. More concerned with contemplation than dramatic swells and dips, the song progresses in a linear way yet it maintains drive and direction with on-point production. Lesley has managed to meld a singer-songwriter feel with a pop sensibility. The result is a divine track that’s polished without feeling sterile and one that carries a clear point of view without being pompous
And what of the staging? “Ireland’s staging is all sorts of wow!” writes our Padriag. “And it delivers one of the most fully-formed visual narratives. In essence, we see Lesley transported into a real-life storybook complete with paper trees. It’s like a fantasy version of the music video. It borrows elements from performances such as Sweden 2015, Iceland 2016, Austria 2016 and even Silvàn Areg from France’s Destination Eurovision 2019. Lesley herself looks stunning, barefoot and dressed in a green jumpsuit as she traverses the landscape created by the paper.”
Memorable lyrics: “My soul is a map, my heart is a compass, I am the road.”
🇨🇾 Cyprus: Elena Tsagrinou — “El Diablo”
Elena sings of falling in love with a man as bad as the devil. And with that comes a sensual performance replete with devilishly good choreography performed by Elena (at times on her back, at times bending her back) and four dancers in skin-tight red catsuits. The stage moves between solid black, red and white, always framing Elena and her dancers beautifully. At the end of the song letters spelling out EL DIABLO become apparent and they catch fire — providing extra heat to an already hot performance.
Memorable lyrics: “Hotter than sriracha on our bodies, Ta-Taco tamale, yeah, that’s my mood.”
🇳🇴 Norway: TIX — “Fallen Angel”
This is not a song about unrequited love. It’s about a man battling the dark voices in his own head that tell him he isn’t worthy of love. As he makes clear in the verses: “Here in the dark, inside the hole in my heart, I’m fighting all of my demons trying to tear me apart, and I’m still not sure what you ever saw in me.” TIX conveys that tortured subject matter with ease, wearing his heart on his sleeve (and his furry coat). The song itself has a real earworm quality and glides effortlessly from pained verses to soaring chorus. The literal treatment of heaven and hell with all those winged angels adds a level of drama worthy of the big screen.
Memorable lyrics: “I’m fighting all of my demons tryna tear me apart.”
🇭🇷 Croatia: Albina — “Tick-Tock”
Albina’s song is all about letting go of toxic relationships: “Lost in your playzone….now we’re in a warzone!” Our girl banishes the bad vibes by slipping into a futuristic warrior suit that reflects all manner of purples and pastels. She’s the only artist this year to stay entirely off the main stage — she and her four male backing dancers perform on a platform located just in front of it. Eye-catching visuals include beams of light that seem to fire from Albina’s body, and a moment where her dancers propel her toward the ceiling as she sings on her back. What’s better than one Albina? Try five. There’s a gorgeous hologram moment where she duplicates the fashion, the hair, the vibe.
Memorable lyrics: “I hear those voices from far away, they help me to escape.”
🇧🇪 Belgium: Hooverphonic “The Wrong Place”
Hooverphonic are serving the coolest song about a regrettable hookup. The lyrics of “The Wrong Place” are packed full of amazing lines, including the absolute gem “You get up because you need an organic cup of tea”. It very much paints a picture of morning-after regret, when the choices of the night before seem a million times worse in the cold, hard light of day. In a semi-final filled with over-the-top visuals, this three-piece pare things back. Geike’s steely eyes provide one of the most impressive focal points of the show. That the bandmates perform together — but remain isolated from one other on stage — reflects our times in a subtle but poignant way.
Memorable lyrics: “Don’t you ever dare to wear my Johnny Cash T-shirt.”
🇮🇱 Israel: Eden Alene — “Set Me Free”
“Getting you out of my life — I feel so strong.” The words of Eden Alene as she says goodbye to a relationship that feels like a prison. This upbeat number comes with slick group choreography and a dramatic dress reveal. Eden’s white coat gives way to a nude illusion dress — she appears completely naked except for extra-long braids that snake around her private parts. As she told me in an interview, the nudity connotes freedom and the braids celebrate her Ethiopian heritage. Brace yourself for the high notes toward the end — they are officially the highest notes ever performed in the contest.
Memorable lyrics: “Used to be your treasure now I’m gone forever.”
Read our entry profile and lyrics
🇷🇴 Romania: Roxen — “Amnesia”
Roxen’s performance includes one of the most memorable phrases of the year: “self-love amnesia.” It’s apparently the state of forgetting to take care of yourself and succumbing to inner demons — an idea that’s brought to life on stage through modern dance. “The message is to speak your truth and to ask for help if you need it — even if people judge you,” Roxen tells us. “At the end of the day the most important thing is for you to be safe. I just wanted to give a voice to people who struggle, because I know very well what it means.”
Memorable lyrics: “Self love amnesia, don’t worry if it got you.”
Read our entry profile and lyrics
🇦🇿 Azerbaijan: Efendi — “Mata Hari”
“Scandinavian Orientalism” — that’s how Azerbaijan’s team describe their Eurovision 2021 stage show, which sees Efendi portraying the infamous Dutch spy. “On stage you will see powerful, strong women,” Efendi tells us. “After that, no one needs to be afraid of anything. I want to give this strength through my songs, my costumes — everything.” The LED fire looks so real you worry our girl may get burned, and an LED snake inside of a golden orb may leave you thinking of Cleopatra and that asp. Musically this plays on sounds of the near east, including traditional Azerbaijani instruments. The quickening pace of the ending is a rush of adrenaline to the head — don’t blink or you’ll miss some of the fiercest choreography of the year.
Memorable lyrics: “I’m a liar, playing the game of desire.”
Read our entry profile and lyrics
🇺🇦 Ukraine: Go_A — “SHUM”
“Shum” honours a “vesnyanka”, a traditional Ukrainian song that helps usher in spring. The season is the protagonist of the song: “Oh vesnyanka, vesnyanka, where have you spent your winter?” The answer comes in the catchy phrase siyu, siyu, siyu — “sowing, sowing, sowing, sowing hemp plants, Sowing, sowing, sowing, sowing green ones”. It’s understandable why the group might have an interest in rebirth and renewal: The lead singer Kateryna grew up near Chernobyl. Go_A — who rose to fame by mixing Ukrainian folk with EDM — have come with staging as outré as you’d expect. They perform on a white, snowy patch of ground that seems to float through space. At times the LED features golden silhouettes of men that chase after said island. Taken together it connotes the changing of the seasons and the relentless passing of time.
Memorable lyrics: “There on the edge of a forest an owl is blowing into the water.”
Read our entry profile and lyrics
🇲🇹 Malta: Destiny — “Je me casse”
Hell naw she is not your honey! But Malta’s Destiny may well be your next Eurovision winner. The 18-year-old vocal powerhouse has been pitch perfect throughout her time in Rotterdam, nailing all three minutes of her empowering song “Je me casse” — French slang for “I gotta go” or “I’m outta here!” Destiny wears a silver, sparkly number with thigh-high boots and stands centre stage with four dancers flitting around her. The staging features bold blocks of colour — from pinks to yellows — and eventually turns into a gigantic starscape. When Destiny hits the bridge — Ladies, listen to me! — the stars seem to shoot out from everywhere, creating a real moment.
Memorable lyrics: “Hell no, I don’t want your money, got it wrong I ain’t into dummies.”
Read our entry profile and lyrics
Who should qualify? And who will win? Shout it out in the comments down below.
Wooow Malta, blowing me away. #winnervibes
Yes everyone hating on sashas staging were wrong. Well done. But I have some issues with Destiny And the song- she is selling the song but it feels like it is not really HER song. The dress change put me off- the lyrics are like kick ass but when she changed the clothes she lost credibility.
She did mess the high note, and then screamed to try to distract from that. It just shows how the nerves are getting even into the strongest performers. Eden sang with a WEIRD accent because of the nerves but it was enough. I hope she will be better in the final, qualifying will give her more confidence.
No she didn’t mess any note. I am sorry but you heard incorrectly.
That first dress had to go. It was the same colour as her dancers and she needed something with distinguished her.
I think Lithuania and Ukraine were the best performances . Malta and Norway was also good. I think Sweden also should be mentioned. Some were really off key And singing false notes and some lyp synked in parts of the song.
Omg I’m on wiwi bloggs and I see ads for Malta. F#ck off
I am receiving ads for Iceland and Norway. So?
Ukraine, Russia, Croatia, Lithuania, Belgium, Romania pls qualify
Romania and Ireland was really bad vocally
Something is off. All my votes got counted except the 2 for Israel 🙁
It’s the only one i didn’t receive a message ‘your vote has been counted’ for atleast.
Got the message 10 minutes later now.
Here’s my forecast for the 10 finalists: Lithuania, Slovenia, Russia, Sweden, North Macedonia, Cyprus, Belgium, Israel, Ukraine and Malta.
Romania and Ireland were terrible vocally.
And Croatia.
She had that one terrible note, but overall not bad.
Prediction. Lithuania, Russia, Sweden, Cyprus, Croatia, Belgium, Israel, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Malta for the final
Norway stole Croatia’s place
I think the finalists will be Lithuania, Russia, Sweden, Cyprus, Croatia, Belgium, Israel, Azerbaijan, Ukraine & Malta
Same
My TOP 17 after watch semi final live
1.Ukraine
2.Belgium
3.Israel
4.Croatia
5.North Macedonia
6.Malta
7.Norway
8.Romania
9.Cyprus
10.Lithuania
11.Sweden
12.Azerbaijan
13.Australia
14.Slovenia
15.Russia
16.Ireland
What happen with Cyprus, it look like 2 songs mix in one, with different voices of same singer.
Lithuania was the best opening in YEARS!
Exactly, they are the best and they should win this year, funny song and amazing dance. Absolutely love it ??????
What a mess. Romania.
Sweden’s staging was alot worse than Melodifestivalen. I’m so dissapointed with what they have done to it, it didn’t manage to make an impact at all. And Tusses voice was not good. Oh well, won’t be surprised if we’re out. Pretty pissed that Sweden have their fingers with other entries who seem to have better stagings. Was their no ideas left for your own country??
It was way too epileptic. Like what all those flickers even added to the table?
Exactly. Sweden is not selling it.
I really hope that we make it. There were some others that did not deliver. Cyprus looked like she lyp synked in parts of the song and it was a little bit to much. I thouht it lacked the elegance I thought it would have needed, Malta’s staging was great and she can sing!
OMG Ireland was terrible. Like TERRIBLE. I guess something happened in the arena. And now Cyprus is terrible.
lmao just no. Although you are entitled to your own opinion!
I think it’s different per country.
Don’t worry vanilla bean, I’ll vote for Slovenia in your name.
My final comment before ESC kicks off tonight. This will be quite a lengthy comment, so those not interested in my thoughts might as well skip it completely. However, before commenting about the participating songs I would like just to make a general comment. We (myself included) are always criticizing the fact that many songs are “average”, “too generic”. True, but we are forgetting that we are talking about Eurovision, which is at most times the epitome of kitsch, of radio-friendly music, of commercial pop music and not some serious music/song festival. It is also true that from time to… Read more »
Thank you for your mature minded coments ; Iceland and Lithuania are positively juvenile , while Italy are like a bunch of student anarchists doing a ridiculous parody of 1970s Glam Rock ..every real rock band in the world will laugh at them AND YET they are likely to win the TV vote , and that should tell you all you need to know about Eurovision viewers
Hey thank you Tarleton and Tadhg. Didn’t think anyone would read my comment or even bother to comment on it. Yes as to Italy I do have loads of Italian friends who are totally immersed into rock music and the info I have about Maneskin is basically from them. Italian rock musicians look down on them in fact for trying to be rockers but pandering to the mainstream music scene.
Pretty good summary there, don’t apologise for being brutal, there’s too much sweetness and light on this site.
Enjoy everyone! We all deserve to have a great time after the year we’ve had! Good luck to all the participants and countries! It’s finally here!!!
Have prepared my three votes for tonight’s semi (ready to send off in-between work and as soon as the lines open): IRELAND, BELGIUM AND NORTH MACEDONIA. Have a good evening, everyone – Greetings from Norway.
I like Belgium the most in this semi. I could have liked Romania but it looks like she is not ready! And of course Sweden but it is my home country. Ukraine is also really good but the song is not something I would listen to.
My PREDICTION
1.Malta: jury 1st tele 2nd
2.Lithuania: jury 6th tele 1st
3.Cyprus: jury 4th tele 4th
4.Russia: jury 5th tele 5th
5.Sweden: jury 2nd tele 11th
6.Ukraine: jury 13th tele 3rd
7.Belgium: jury 3rd tele 12th
8.Croatia: jury 7th tele 9th
9.Ireland: jury 10th tele 8th
10.Romania: jury 14th tele 6th
11.Azerbaijan: jury 11th tele 10th
12.Israel: jury 8th tele 13th
13.Norway: jury 16th tele 7th
14.Slovenia: jury 9th tele 16th
15.Australia: jury 12th tele 14th
16.North Macedonia jury 15th tele 15th
1. Croatia
2. Russia
3. Ukraine
4. Cyprus
5. Australia
6. Romania
7. Belgium
8. Ireland
9. Slovenia
10. Lithuania
Isn’t it odd that fans claim that they want authenticity and originality in the contest but then support acts like “El Diablo”? You are sending a message to all the deligations that all you want are templates of standard pop songs, copied from much better pop songs. I don’t want ESC to become the Ali Express version of what was popular on the radio 10 years ago. I can’t understand the fans that are raving over this entry and then say that Sweden needs to send something “more original”. More original is what you want? Really?
What if the fans who want originality and the fans who like El Diablo are different groups of people?
No, I seen bloggers on youtube who were pointing out how the song is Lady Gaga, and the video is Zara Larsson, and talking about it in a bad way but then slowly started to rave about it. Like they got over the fact that this is a non original trash and let their nostalgia for old school Lady Gaga get the best of them.
Yes but in the case if Sweden it is authentic since everything is 100 % made in Sweden, in San Marino, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Malta’s case and some others it is bought from Sweden. Even Ireland. Swedes only use in-house talent and it is a small country. Most songs are even written by the artist themselves like Benjamin Ingrosso.,this is not the case with many of the most popular entries. Still the others are praised and Sweden looked down upon.
I respect Sweden and their approach. They earned their power in the contest. I don’t respect countries that neglect their own artists and musicians in favor of “better results”. What does a good result woth when a bunch of foreigners brought you there for money?
I agree but since Malta, Bulgaria and Cyprus have success than they did before they used this approach I guess they will continue. Actually even Switzerland is on that road. They look what won and was successful last time and kind of copy it.
That’s my point, the fans say they don’t like Sweden but they tottaly like Sweden when it’s performing under a different flag. Then the fans say they preffer authenticity in the contest but then are totally in love with the most basic and redundant pop as man can get. Make up your mind people.
Lesley Roy co-wrote the song I believe 🙂
Yes I thought it was her song and was surprised that so many Swedes are involved with her. The staging is done by my favorite Swedish stage director Benke Rydman. He did Eric Sade’s staging this year.
I like Sweden this year but hope the guy has a better outfit.
Good point! Even the Malta’s dancers are Swedish!
But I do hope that people start to see the original ie Sweden as authentic. Because it is.
My qualifiers: 1. Malta: Destiny – Je Me Casse 2. Lithuania: The Roop – Discoteque 3. Ukraine: Go_A – Shum 4. Cyprus: Elena Tsagrinou – El Diablo 5. Russia: Manizha – Russian Woman 6. Sweden: Tusse – Voices 7. Belgium: Hooverphonic – The Wrong Place 8. Norway: TIX – Fallen Angel 9. Romania: ROXEN – Amnesia 10. Azerbaijan: Efendi – Mata Hari ——– 11. Ireland: Lesley Roy – Maps 12. Slovenia: Ana Sokli? – Amen 13. Israel: Eden Alene – Set Me Free 14. Croatia: Albina – Tick-Tock 15. Australia: Montaigne – Technicolour 16. North Macedonia: Vasil – Here I… Read more »
My personal NQs in no particular order are:
Azerbaijan, Russia, Ukraine, Sweden, Malta, Cyprus.
Hope all the rest to Qualify.
my qualifiers:
Lithuania
Russia
Sweden
Cyprus
Norway
Belgium
Israel
Romania
Azerbaijan
Ukraine
My personal qualifiers are Norway, Belgium, Sweden, Russia, Ukraine, Lithuania, Cyprus, Malta, Romania and Azerbaijan. I’ve honestly always thought that Israel and Croatia were overrated, but I do definitely get the appeal. Azerbaijan is a sort-of guilty pleasure, I think it’s enjoyable, but I’ll fully admit that it’s not a very creative or inventive song by any means, and people aren’t being unfair when they call it lazy. But the thing about music clichés is, they’re usually clichés for a reason. We love them. If I had to predict, the way I see it now, Cyprus, Malta, Ukraine, Russia and… Read more »
”But then if it doesn’t, we’ll be surprised at first, but then it’ll seem obvious in hindsight. A lot of us will be rewriting history and being like, “well of course it was never really going to make it”.” Yup, everyone likes to appear more perceptive after the thing is over. 😉
I also agree about Mata Hari. It’s objectively such a silly song, but it is a guilty pleasure. This is such a tough semi, so it would be between my 9th and 12th in it. Good luck to Efendi.
Mine are the same
My very quick predictions for the final in mostly random order: 1. Lithuania – I don’t want them there (and don’t call me a hater – I love The Roop, this particular song just ain’t it!), but they will be there. 2. Malta – same as above. 3. Ukraine – although I’m reallyyyy worried here. I’ve seen too many people say they loved it but wouldn’t vote for it as it would “qualify anyway”. This may lead to them actually lacking votes… I hope this is just my anxiety speaking as they’re my faves! 4. Sweden – ’cause, ya know,… Read more »
There’s a lot of beef in the comments section of the ‘how to watch’ article about Malta’s second chance at performing last night, but the discussion has died down now. I don’t wish to fan the flames, but I haven’t been following this very closely so I’m curious.
In what ways are the Maltese delegation purported to have been acting ruthlessly, and in what ways has there purportedly been favouritism towards them?
This is a really intense semi final. There are so many countries that could be shock non qualifiers. I’m feeling Azerbaijan won’t make it through, I’m also not that confident in Romania, Sweden and Russia. And I’m feeling like Ireland and Australia might just about make it.
Russia definitely gets to the final. Moreover, in the final Manizha may have an overwhelming result, everyone will remember her.
Florida is reported to be in Rotterdam.
Very well spotted 😉
Australia is going to qualify, mark my words!!!
Non qualifiers… North Macedonia, Israel, Slovenia, Ireland, Rumania, Australia.
Cyprus , Russia , Lithuania Best songs of Semi 1
This is my final prediction:
Safe Q:
Malta
Cyprus
Lithuania
Ukraine
Can be shock-NQ:
Sweden
Russia
Likely Q:
Croatia
Unknown:
Norway
Azerbaijan
Belgium
Ireland
Israel
Australia
Romania
NQ:
Slovenia
North Macedonia
The fact that there are so many unknown makes this semi realy intense…
would really appreciate if anyone here voted for Belgium since i can’t do it myself! Belgium needs every single vote from you and it would be a big shame if the entry with the most quality stayed out of the Semi-Final <3
Don’t worry, Belgium has my votes tonight.
sorry i mean Final!
Belgium have my vote along with Ukraine and Lithuania.
If y’all could throw a few votes to my girl Lesley tonight too, we’d definitely appreciate it. Thank you kindly
I certainly will, I love Lesley.
Thanks Marion
Absolutely! I will burn my battery out for Lesley <3
Thanks Mqe
I’m gonna vote for Belgium, Ireland, lithuania and Norway.
Yes, Tix!
Cheers Henry
Mine, too! I adore them and Loïc continues to be the best the ESC ever showed. Also, Geike is one awesome lady!
You don’t need to worry. Belgium is in the final. I bet they are Top5 with the juries. Seriously.
Belgium has entered the Top 10 in the betting odds.
Romania predicted to NQ in 11th
Aww… but I want them both IN… 🙁
Yeah I felt bad for Roxen last night, televote might be sympathetic towards her though tonight, it can all change and probably will.
I’d rather see Belgium and Romania go through than some of the others but that’s just Eurovision I guess
I am seriously thinking about voting for both of them tonight, but I have so many on my list…
BTW, these odds are kinda hilarious – Romania – 11th – NQ – 52% of making it… whaaat? 😉
The odds are messed up. They’re usually more of an indicator of who will qualify, but usually only get about 7/10 correct as there is usually surprises.
I really like Roxen and hope that a miracle will happen and get her in the final.
Here we go again. Pleas wiwibloggs delete conspiracy comments about Sweden. Sweden has no mysterious advantage with the juries. This has been proved. They are only trying to do the best They can like everyone else. To say anything else is not fair to Tusse who might not pass tonight. Who knows ! but to wish someone bad luck is not very Eurovision Friendly like.
Actually Sweden hasmissed the final once and I think Ukraine never missed. So maybe they have som strange connection with the juries.
Ukraine would’ve missed in 2018 if it was only up to the juries. Still, as I said before, I do NOT think that Sweden is doing anything wrong. Juries love that kind of Swedish pop. There might be a slight subconscious bias due to so many collaborations, but it’s definitely not a set-up. And yes, Tusse is amazing, and if he qualifies tonight I would be happy for *him*. The song isn’t in my top ten, but it’s still a decent song, and he has charisma in spades.
I don’t think there is something going on with Ukraine except that they usually send interesting and good songs that’s why they are in the final. I just wanted to compare. Have you not seen the bad wishing that is going on about Sweden? It is terrible. There is no such subcontius thing going on. Has anyone proved that?
However thee are research report about biased voting and in some regions in Europe this is much more prominent than in the Nordic countries.
If you mean ”neighborvision”, then almost everyone is guilty of it. For example, I will eat my socks if our local juries don’t have at least one among Ana and Vasil, if not both, in top 5. It sucks for people to vote countries, and not songs, but I don’t think it will ever really go away, sadly.
Of course not. You cannot confirm a small subconscious bias. But I have a hunch there is a correlation between a country sending by far the biggest number of songwriters / choreographers / set designers / dancers, ect. to help other countries, and a positive response they get. Still, I think it’s only natural. We are only human after all, and if someone is nice, and helpful, we have a need to respond. Not saying they should stop either. They are good at what they do. Yes, I see that Sweden gets bad-mouthed a lot, and part of it is… Read more »
I think you need proof to state such things otherwise it is conspiracy thinking. And not everyone are voting as much neighborhood as others there are some that do it more than others such as the balkans and the Russian friendly countries. The we have Cyprus and Greece. There are research article about this.
I’m not stating. I’m having a hunch. There is a difference. I’m not accusing anyone of anything. Even if true, I don’t think that this potential bias is completely unreasonable to have, due to circumstances.
And about who has more bias than whom, I haven’t done a thorough research, but I can see a lot of that floating around from multiple locations.
You but I don’t write such hunches – it adds to the whole conspiracy that is not true.
When in doubt, go with your gut. These are my eleven qualifiers before the show (in alphabetic order):
Yes, not all of them can make it, but I hope that at least most of them will. I still have tough time to decide who to vote for tonight. Ukraine certainly, but who else?
Good luck to all artists!
Romania or Belgium will need your votes a lot. I would have voted for Romania, Ukraine and Belgium if my country voted in this semi. I love all of these three songs. Otherwise Ireland is also a solid choice.
I agree. Romania and Belgium will need my votes. My other option is Russia. She’ll likely qualify, but she needs a boost too. Lithuania is another one I am thinking about, even if they’ll have sufficient votes. A part of me wants to save Tix for the finals too. At least for a qualification. And yeah, Ireland is a good option too. I’ll have to see how the staging comes together. Such a tough semi!
It’s true. I also enjoy Lithuania a lot!! Russia and Norway aren’t my cup of tea personally. I predict a lot of countries to qualify unexpectedly and others to miss out unexpectedly. It is surely gonna be very exciting!!
Very exciting indeed! PS. Australia would be 12th I’d like to see going through, but I still have no idea how this whole concept will look tonight.
Who will you vote for in semi 2, Thanos?
I still can’t decide! I am surely going to vote for Finland (my second place behind Italy). Apart from that I like Switzerland (although the staging disappointed me), Bulgaria, Iceland, Austria and Georgia. Any advice? How would you vote in the second semi?
Switzerland and Bulgaria are my two favorites, so I’d vote them. I’d probably also vote for Czech Republic, as I really want to see him in, and the odds aren’t the best. But I am a fan of Iceland and Finland too. Austria and Georgia are not my qualifiers, but I can see the appeal.
PS. I’d consider voting Greece too, but: a) not an option for you, and b) probably a safe qualifier
Nice we have similar opinions! I also like Stefania but I can’t vote for my own country xD. I think she will go through nevertheless.
I think that Stefania both will and should qualify. Best of luck. 🙂
Thank you! Also good luck to Albina (I remember you are from Croatia). I think she will qualify!
Thank you very much. Yeah, and I hope so too. 🙂
Three wishes for tonight: Belgium, Ireland, North Macedonia
I think Destiny is being let down by her delegation. It wasn’t necessary to put her through another run-through last night. Also they seem to keep changing their mind about her hair and outfit. I think the overall contest is more likely to be won by an act who has just got on with things without messing about. Like France, Italy or Lithuania.
As much as I enjoy Discoteque, it’s definitely not a winner.
Same.. Discoteque is wonderful and the Roop are my favourites since last year, but objectively speaking, placing 5th would be a HUGE success and I wish them luck in achieving that.
Yeah, I also don’t expect Lithuania to win but I do hope it reaches 3rd-5th place to get their highest result since 2006. But it might finish lower than that or not qualify (unlikely I know but I can’t help feeling paranoid), so you never know. Still, I wish everyone good luck.
Exactly. Destiny is gorgeous and talented, but that delegation consists of bullies… I feel bad for her.
I really hope Israel’s Eden will qualify! such an amazing singer and the song is much better than many “always qualified” countries.
I feel that there are countries that qualify easily with completely meh songs and there are those that have to work their ass off to even get noticed. I could easily see Russia as a non qualifier if a similar entry was sent by another country. The song is not catchy, pretty messy, and relies heavily on its meaning that is mostly delivered in Russian. It’s a more festive version of Portugal 2019, and we know how that one finished. But despite that I’m sure it will qualify, just because it’s Russia.
I really like Cyprus (though if I were Lady Gaga I would sue.) Never liked Malta’a entry and they have made the poor Maltese girl look like a teletubby in drag (Barbara Dex award shoe in.) Of course the usual suspects will go through, the juries would vote for Sweden and Azerbaijan however bad their entries. Ireland may struggle I think. The song is just OK but her voice isn’t strong enough. Tonight could also herald the end of Australia’s participation in the show. Their song is godawful.
I wouldn’t be so sure about Azerbaijan. I think Efendi will struggle to qualify because of the jury.
Yeah, I think so too. I feel like Mata Hari is one of those songs that screams, “I will do better in the televote than the jury”.
I’m glad someone else can see Australia for what it is, it’s a load of tripe!
Also, in a fair universe Sweden should get their second non-qualification. I ADORE Tusse and his charisma but there are much more interesting and deserving acts that should make the final.
Romania and Belgium are the countries I’m most nervous about. Roxen has gone through so much already, an emotional first rehearsal, vocal issues, she missed the turquoise carpet, serious technical issues during the jury rehearsal… It seems like she can’t catch a break and she’s so young. She deserves the finale, her song is great (it’s actually my most listened song this year) and her staging could definitely surprise. Belgium is just so classy and minimalistic, we need acts that serve us musical quality to go through.
One thins is sure – nothing is sure! We’ve had suprise qualifiers and non-qualifiers in the past, so anything can happened and I am super stressed! My favorites from this semi-final are Lithuania, Russia, Norway and Ukraine, so I care about their qualification the most but it would be really hard for me to choose my top ten here. Good luck to everyone!
My prediction
1.Malta
2.Cyprus
3.Ukraine
4.Lithuania
5.Russia
6.Sweden
7.Norway
8.Croatia
9.Azerbaijan
10.Belgium
11.Australia
My TOP 10 after rehearsal
1.Cyprus
2.Belgium
3.Lithuania
4.Ukraine
5.Croatia
6.Australia
7.Norway
8.Azerbaijan
9.Romania
10.Slovenia
Honestly, a couple of the countries that “always qualify” have no place in the final this year. Not in such a strong semi.
If Azerbaijan or perhaps even Sweden qualify over Ireland and Belgium, I will be mad! I know Sweden probably will, but Azerbaijan most definitely shouldn’t.
Norway should also sit this one out, sorry. There’s enough room for interesting, quality acts in the final if we kick these out.
Hope North Macedonia will take the place of Norway, Romania or Sweden – that would only be fair and just in my opinion!!!
If Tix was representing North Macedonia this year, he’d be in the exact same spot as Vasil is in the odds right now, and that’s a fact.
If Vasil was representing Norway with here I stand, he would be exactly where Tix is right now in the odds, 6th favorite to qualify.
You are probably right – which is where the ESC is letting down its music and the professonality of its participating artists! Greetings from Norway
I love your country by the way, just going to say that now haha I’ve got friends there and hoping to get back to Oslo in September for a few days, when SAS resume flights from Dublin.
But yeah, I’m just not getting Tix this year.
I’m not sure that is a fact. Remember North Macedonia did win the jury vote last time, with a similarly dramatic song (sung in part by Vasil). So I think they are in stronger position that you or the bookmakers suggest. On the other hand, I don’t think TIX is in such a good place. He’s done himself no favours with his look, which makes me think of Jimmy Savile. That will cost him votes tonight.
If Vasil representing Sweden, Australia he would be in TOP 5 by juries, betting odds.
3 countries are always overrated in points by juries Sweden,Australia and Malta.
Malta never came Top 3 not even with the juries. The nearest it came was in the fourth position. There were years when Malta did not even make it to the final. What are you saying?