If you are an American, you may or may not know/care about the annual Eurovision Song Contest. Basically, Eurovision is a song writing contest held every year in Europe. It was started in the 1950's to build relationships transcending political disputes through the power of music. Eligibility is based on being located within the European Broadcasting Area. Each eligible nation submits an original song, and the individuals representing each nation perform on stage. The public and a panel of jurors votes on the songs, and the nation with the most points wins! Simple!
Though the competition claims to transcend politics, it is a little bit political. The biggest financial backers of the competition automatically advance to the final. These so-called Big Five are the UK, Spain, Germany, France, and Italy. Nations will sometimes boycott the competition when a dispute is going on. This year, Russia's performers, two lovely 17 year old twins, were booed merely because they represented Russia.
Here are the highlights from Eurovision 2014.
Eurovision 2014 was won by Austria, represented by Conchita Wurst singing a song entitled "Rise Like a Phoenix." It sounds like it could be a James Bond theme song. Of lesser importance, Conchita Wurst happens to be a bearded drag queen.
France submitted this atrocity. I think it came in last place, with 2 points. Lucky for France they automatically advance to the finals.
The Netherlands can do folk music! This song was my personal favorite from the competition.
Denmark cloned Bruno Mars and sent this delight to the show.
Sweden had this powerful vocalist. I think she could have won.
Poland attempted to win with boobs. They claimed that this was "ironic."
There you have it! My highlights from Eurovision 2014. I look forward to seeing what next year's competition has to offer!
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