The Running Order

Image via Wikipedia

The Draw for the running order for the 2009 Eurovision Song Contest took place today in Moscow and the results are as follows.

The first Semi-Final (May 12th)

1. Montenegro
2. Czech Republic
3. Belgium
4. Belarus
5. Sweden
6. Armenia
7. Andorra
8. Switzerland
9. Turkey
10. Israel
11. Bulgaria (chosen with a wildcard)
12. Iceland
13. FYR Macedonia
14. Romania
15. Finland
16. Portugal (chosen with a wildcard)
17. Malta (chosen with a wildcard)
18. Bosnia & Herzegovina

The second Semi-Final (May 14th)

1. Croatia
2. Ireland
3. Latvia
4. Serbia
5. Poland
6. Norway
7. Cyprus
8. Slovakia
9. Denmark
10. Slovenia
11. Hungary
12. Azerbaijan
13. Greece
14. Lithuania
15. Moldova
16. Albania
17. Ukraine (chosen with a wilcard)
18. Estonia (chosen with a wildcard)
19. The Netherlands (chosen with a wildcard)

The Final (May 16th)

1. Semi-Final qualifier
2. Semi-Final qualifier
3. France
4. Semi-Final qualifier
5. Semi-Final qualifier
6. Semi-Final qualifier
7. Semi-Final qualifier
8. Semi-Final qualifier
9. Semi-Final qualifier
10. Russia
11. Semi-Final qualifier
12. Semi-Final qualifier
13. Semi-Final qualifier
14. Semi-Final qualifier
15. Semi-Final qualifier
16. Semi-Final qualifier
17. Germany
18. Semi-Final qualifier
19. Semi-Final qualifier
20. Semi-Final qualifier
21. Semi-Final qualifier
22. Semi-Final qualifier
23. United Kingdom
24. Semi-Final qualifier
25. Spain (chosen with a wildcard)

The draw for the running order of the voting in the final also took place. Spain, Belgium, Belarus, Malta, Germany, Czech Republic, Sweden, Iceland, France, Israel, Russia, Latvia, Montenegro, Andorra, Finland, Switzerland, Norway, Bulgaria, Lithuania, United Kingdom, FYR Macedonia, Slovakia, Greece, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Ukraine, Turkey, Albania,Serbia, Cyprus, Poland, the Netherlands, Estonia, Portugal, Romania, Ireland, Denmark, Moldova, Slovenia, Armenia, Hungary and finally Azerbaijan.

Ireland has been drawn in the "unlucky" number 2 slot in the second semi. The last time we started at that position was in 1995 with Eddie Friel and we ended up 14th. Though both countries in the number 2 slot qualified from last year, one was from televoting alone (Israel) and the other was by Jury (Sweden). I wonder will it be unlucky for us.

Related articles by Zemanta

• 43 countries to take part in Eurovision (stephenspillane.blogspot.com)

Offical Video - Sinéad Mulvey & Black Daisy - "Et Cetera"

The official video for the Irish Eurovision entry is online and the song is really growing on me! Check it out!



To quote a friend who just heard the song "Holy crap, that song is awesome!" (He does mean in comparison with previous years!)

In other news Georgia has withdrawn from the Eurovision Song Contest this year. It was claimed that the lyrics infringe the rules of the contest.

I think most of the songs have now been been chosen and that means the running order will decided shortly and that means preview time for me! I am looking forward to that.

Related articles by Zemanta

• Eurovision 2009: Georgia pulls out of contest over 'Putin song' (guardian.co.uk)
• Irish Euovision Entry 2009 (stephenspillane.blogspot.com)

Irish Euovision Entry 2009

So I finally get around to listening to the Irish entry for Eurovision Song Contest, yes I know it was selected LAST Friday, and I like it! in fact I like it alot actually. It is called "Et cetera" and is performed by Sinead Mulvey and Black Daisy. The song was composed by Niall Mooney, Jonas Gladnikoff, Daniele Moretti and Christina Schilling. Brilliant song that will do us proud in Moscow! You go Girls!!!

Related articles by Zemanta

• Israel's Eurovision duet criticised (guardian.co.uk)
• Georgia in Eurovision swipe at Putin (guardian.co.uk)
• Jade lands UK's Eurovision place (news.bbc.co.uk)

So who are up against? (Eurovision Post)

Image via Wikipedia

So I have just finished watching the UK final for Eurovision and I think they made a good choice, but any way who are Ireland up against in the Semi's? We have been drawn to take part in the Second Semi Final. We will be up against the following (this is not the running order!)

Slovenia
Denmark
Azerbaijan
Netherlands
Latvia
Hungary
Serbia
Norway
Ukraine
Greece
Lithuania
Poland
Croatia
Estonia
Moldova
Cyprus
Ireland
Slovakia
Albania

Also voting in the second semi final will be Russia and France.

We have an okay chance in this group in my opinion. We normal pick up votes from a few of these countries (Albania, Netherlands and Denmark), the fact that the UK will not be voting in this Semi final will hurt us.

Just for those who are curious the Countries in the first semi-final are (again not the running order!):

Bosnia-Herzegovina
Sweden
Israel
Belgium
Andorra
Czech Republic
Montenegro
Iceland
Georgia
Bulgaria
Portugal
Switzerland
FYR Macedonia
Finland
Belarus
Turkey
Romania
Malta
Armenia

Also voting in the first semi will be the UK, Germany and Spain.

The first semi will take place on May 12th, the Second on the 14th with the final taking place on May 16th! Am looking forward to it now!

Related articles by Zemanta

• 43 countries to take part in Eurovision (stephenspillane.blogspot.com)
• Sir Terry Wogan: The highs and lows of my 37 years with Eurovision (telegraph.co.uk)
• Graham Norton on why he is perfectly happy to morph into Terry Wogan rather than run up and down stairs waving dildos (guardian.co.uk)
• Eurovision title is beyond me says Andrew Lloyd Webber (telegraph.co.uk)

43 countries to take part in Eurovision

Image via WikipediaThe 54th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will feature acts from 43 countries. 38 of these will be contesting for places in the final in the semi-finals. The semi-finals will take place on the 12th and 14th of May 2009, with the final taking place on the 16th of May.

The only change in the participating countries is that San Marino, debuted last year, will not be returning, while Slovkia, who last took part eleven years ago (in 1998), will be rejoining the contest.

The particpating countries this year are:

Albania (RTVSH); Andorra (RTVA); Armenia (ARMTV); Azerbaijan (Ictimai TV); Belarus (BTRC); Belgium (RTBF); Bosnia & Herzegovina (BHRT); Bulgaria (BNT); Croatia (HRT); Cyprus (CyBC); Czech Republic (CT); Denmark (DR); Estonia (ERR); Finland (YLE); France (FT3); FYR Macedonia (MKRTV); Georgia (GPB); Germany (NDR/ARD); Greece (ERT); Hungary (MTV); Iceland (RÚV); Ireland (RTÉ); Israel (IBA); Latvia (LTV); Lithuania (LRT); Malta (PBS); Moldova (TRM); Montenegro (RTCG); the Netherlands (NOS); Norway (NRK); Poland (TVP); Portugal (RTP); Romania (TVR); Russia (Channel One); Serbia (RTS); Slovakia (STV); Slovenia (RTVSLO); Spain (TVE); Sweden (SVT); Switzerland (SRG SSR idée suisse); Turkey (TRT) ; Ukraine (NTU) and the United Kingdom (BBC).

The selection process is under way in a few countries with some countries already having picked there entries. I of course am really looking forward to Eurovision, as always! This year I plan on actually live-blogging the semi's but not the final, as I will be out!

Ireland will be selecting its entry on February 20th in a special edition of the Late Late Show, to be called Eurosong. I hope to live blog that too!

The draw to determine which of the two semi finals the 38 Semi-Finalists will participate in, will take place on the 30th of January in Moscow.

The draws for the running order of the Semi-Finals, the Final and voting order take place in or around mid-March.

Expect more Eurovision related posts around the time of the draw!

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• Eurovision title is beyond me says Andrew Lloyd Webber
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• Webber unveils UK Eurovision acts
• Eurovision song contest heads east

ESC 09 First Contestant Announced !

Well it was reported last week that De Toppers will be representing the Netherlands in Moscow in next years edition of the Eurovision Song Contest!

De Toppers are a 3 piece band consisting of Gerard Joling, who sang for the Netherlands at the 1988 Eurovision Song Contest, and Gordon and Rene Froger.

Below is an excellent video of them in concert! They could do well in Moscow!

Another Eurovision Contest

It seams every year we get a new Eurovision Contest, last year it was the Eurovision Dance Contest, which is also being held this year, this time in Glasgow, from this year the winner will host it.

This year we have a show based on a idea that has been going for a long time, talent shows! Thats right we will have a Eurovision Talent Contest! With the success of Britain's Got Talent I am not actually surprised by this. So what's it about?

A talent show that uncovers the best, most unique and surprising talents wherever they may be in a pan-European event set up along competitive lines and keying into the most powerful elements of the Eurovision brand and formula. The format is based broadly on non-verbal material in order to overcome language barriers

The internet will feature heavily in it as contestants will "upload video of their special talent or act onto the site for the material to be accessed by show producers, panel judges and other members of the online community, including major social networking platforms, where the content can be redistributed virally."

Also the initial stages "will take place exclusively online before being integrated into a national and international television offering. This creates a genuinely interactive and multi-platform television event."

There will be a judging panel who will announce there votes. National Finalists are expected to be selected by televoting.

Only two stations have confirmed participation so far, they are Channel One of Russia and NPO of the Netherlands. I wonder will RTÉ enter this or just focus on the Eurovision Song Contest and the Eurovision Dance Contest? It doesn't seam likely that RTÉ or TG4 (which is also eligible) to enter the Junior Eurovsion Song Contest which will take place on November 22 in Limassol, Cyprus.

I also just found some interesting information on the Dance Contest which I mentioned earlier in the post, Ireland will be represented by Richard Rock and Kelly Smyth according to Wikipedia. That event will take place on the 6th of September in Glasgow as already stated.

----
Sources:

Eurovision Talent Contest - EBU Website
Eurovision Dance Contest - Wikipedia
Ireland in the Eurovision Dance Contest - Wikipedia
Junior Eurovision Song Contest 2008 - Wikipedia

Apology, Eurovision

I wish to apologies to everyone for my complete absence of blogging during Eurovision. Gamma, gave out to me already. I know I normally blog a lot during Eurovision, but this year due to moving back home, going canvassing and generally going out to meet friends I didn't have time to blog.

So what did I think of Eurovision?

I enjoyed the format this year, it was a pity that the second semi was stronger but that also made it more enjoyable.

Dustin was a fun entry but come on, we knew it wasn't going to do well. At least he didn't come last in the Semi and had more then one country voting for him!

I was really surprised at how badly Sweden did and how well Norway did!

The Ukraine ended up being my favourite but it was close between Ukraine, Denmark and Norway for my vote on Saturday, I eventually decided on "Shady Lady"! On Tuesday I voted for Norway.

For the third year in a row we gave the UK 8 points. I dont know why really.

Russia did deserve to win as they picked up points nearly from every country. Its not just the neighbours, but they help!

So how did I do on my predictions?

In the first Semi I said
Poland - Yup
Finland - Yup
Russia - Yup
Israel - Yup
San Marino - Nope
Norway - Yup
Andorra - Nope
Greece - Yup
Belgium - Nope
Armenia - Yup

7/10 delighted on that one. I missed Azerbaijan, who were really good. Bosnia & Herzegovina, who also surprised me and Romania.

In the Second Semi I said

Ukraine - Yup
Sweden - Yup (thank you juries)
Bulgaria - Nope
Denmark - Yup
Malta - Nope
Croatia - Yup
Latvia - Yup
Georgia - Yup
FYR Macedonia - Nope (damn you juries!)
Hungary - Nope

So again I got 7/10 not bad like! The juries saved Sweden but at the expense of FYR Macedonia who came in 10th in the Televoting. I missed out on Turkey, Iceland and Portugal.

Anyway thats enough rambling bout Eurovision for now!

Poll

So I forgot to update the Poll, but the results of the poll are resoundly in favour of Obama (why do my readers disagree with me??)

Results:
Obama: 57%
Clinton: 26%
None of the Above: 15%

So the next poll is as follows:
Will Dustin Qualify for the Eurovision Final?

It will run until the 20th at 8:00pm the start time of the First Semi and will start off the Live Blogging.

Poll on the right as always!

Eurovision, Final Preview, no predictions

It 41 days to the Final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2008. The Final will take place on the 24th of May, just like the first ever Eurovision Song Contest in 1956. The new format this year sees only 5 automatic qualoifiers, the Big Four (France, Spain, Germany and the UK) and last years winner and this years hosts Serbia! So there is only 5 songs to be heard. As there is only 5, I wil post the Youtube Videos rather then just link to them

Lets go!

United Kingdom (BBC) respresented by Andy Abraham singing "Even If"
Lyrics

A nice song, though is it enough to reverse the UK's recent results? I dont think so. All in all, it is a nice song, may do well in the charts for Andy.

Germany (NDR) represented by No Angels singing "Disappear"
Lyrics

Now I voted for this song in the German National Final. I love it and can be heard singing along with it on nights out. This will be the entry I will be supporting! Deustchland Über Alles! *Note to self: buy German flag for Eurovision Night!

France (France 3) represented by Sébastien Tellier singing "Divine"
Lyrics

For the first time ever France has entered a song in English!!! When I first heard this song, I didnt like it, though they seamed to have done some work to it. It is a nice song, but it dosent stand out for me, but it does remind me of the beachboys strangely enough.

Spain (TVE) represented by Rodolfo Chikilicuatre singing "Baila el chiki chiki"
Lyrics

If you though Dustin was bad, this worse, much worse! I have to agree with Perez Hilton when he calls it the "Stupidest Song Ever". I'll be cringing in horror when this one comes on! I would say nil points but neighbourly voting will see Andorra and Portugal voting for Spain.

Serbia (RTS) represented by Jelena Tomašević singing "Oro"
Lyrics

Serbia follow up on lasts years winner with another lovely ballad. I like this song, but I think their are stronger ballads in the competition especially Poland. Can Serbia make it two in a row?

---
Sources:
Lyrics - Lyrics and Translations
Songs and Running Order - Eurovision Website

Previous Posts:
Eurovision Semi-Final One: Preview and Prediction
Eurovision, Semi Final Two: Preview and Predictions

Eurovision, Semi Final Two: Preview and Predictions

I finally get around to previewing the Second Semi, after I previewed the first one last month. Well it is 40 days to the Second Semi which will take place on Thursday, 22nd of May. Just like the first Semi there are 19 participants. I will again make my Kiss of Death Predictions at the end.

Lets start the show!

1. Iceland (RÚV) represented by Euroband singing "This Is My Life"
Youtube, Lyrics
This song will get the Semi off to a great start. A good fast paced song. The two singers complement each other really well. Its an excellent song, that should do well, do is up against a few pop/dance songs in this Semi, so could face some challenges.

2. Sweden (PVT) represented by Charlotte Perrelli singing "Hero"
Youtube, Lyrics
Charlotte is no stranger to Eurovision having won the 1999 edition for Sweden with "Take Me to Your Heaven". This is her second crack at Eurovision and it is a good song. A nice upbeat pop song, which the Swedes seam to like entering. I think it will do well.

3. Turkey (TRT) represented by Mor ve Ötesi singing "Deli"
Youtube, Lyrics
A rock song! Yay! The first in this semi. Which will set it out from the first two songs, which is important in a music contest. I really like this song, even it is in Turkish. I hope it does well (I used hope, it wont do well! :P ) Its a cool video also.

4. Ukraine (NTU) represented by Ani Lorak singing "Shady Lady"
Youtube, Lyrics
Well we are back with pop/dance songs, coming after Turkey will benifit this song. I am really liking this song. I have Ukrainian friends here, so maybe thats why! NTU picked good with Ani Lorak. It will do well.

5. Lithuania (LRT) represented by Jeronimas Milius singing "Nomads In The Night"
Youtube, Lyrics
The first ballad in this semi, which will probably help Ukraine more then allow this to stand out. I dont like this song. Its too operatic for me. I'm not liking this live version. Maybe Jeronimas will be alright on the night?

6. Albania (RTSH) represented by Olta Boka singing "Zemrën lamë peng"
Youtube, Lyrics
Another ballad, but a better one then Lithuania. I am really liking this song (No, I'm not liking Albania just because they were the only country to vote for Ireland last year!). A very strong chorus, its an impressive song.

7. Switzerland (SRG SSR idée suisse) represented by Paolo Meneguzzi sining "Era Stupendo"
Youtube, Lyrics
Another ballad, but more modern, kind of reminds me of Avril Lavigne. Not sure why! I really like this song. Its melodic, but fast. I think the swiss are on to something here, strange thats its in Italian.

8. Czech Republic (ČT) represented by Tereza Kerndlová sining "Have Some Fun"
Youtube, Lyrics
Back to the pop songs. This is a good entry from the Czechs, but pop songs are becoming dominant in this semi, so it could be hard to qualify for the final. I am liking the song anyway.

9. Belarus (BTRC) represented by Ruslan Alehno singing "Hasta la Vista"
Youtube, Lyrics
Yet another pop song! But its a good one. This semi could prove hard for the pop entries and neighbourly voting could come into it. Its a good song though.

10. Latvia (LTV) respresented by Pirates Of The Sea singing "Wolves Of The Sea"
Youtube, Lyrics
I had to check the date on my Computer, I thought I was back at Karnival! This is the first joke entry for this final, though better then the ones in the first semi final. Its a good song, fast paced and the words make sense, thanks to the costumes! Never knew Latvia had a history of pirates....

11. Croatia (HRT) represented by Kraljevi ulice & 75 cents singing "Romanca"
Youtube, Lyrics
A really nice folksy song. Something that will set it apart in this semi. I dont get the old guy, then again I dont speak serbo-croat (or whatever langauge they are speaking).

12. Bulgaria (BNT) represented by Deep Zone & Balthazar singing "DJ, Take Me Away"
Youtube, Lyrics
Since I came to Germany, I have gotten into Dance/house music as forcasted by some people in YFG! This song is one of my favourites in this semi. It is excellent. I love the start and the rest of the song! Really looking forward to hearing this out if it wins!

13. Denmark (DR) represented by Simon Mathew singing "All Night Long"
Youtube, Lyrics
Now I always love the Danish entry and this year is no exception. It is an excellent sing-a-long type song. I love it.

14. Georgia (GPB) represented by Diana Gurtskaya singing "Peace Will Come"
Youtube, Lyrics
Wow, is all I say. This is a fantastic, powerful ballad. I do mean powerful. Only one other ballad has impressed me this much and that was Poland. If the voting public are in the same mood as last year, this well do very well!

15. Hungary (MTV) represented by Csézy singing "Candlelight"
Youtube, Lyrics
Another ballad from Hungary. Its a nice melodic song and Csézy is a fantastic singer. It has a fabulous chorus and reminds me of those fantatsic Disney ballads.

16. Malta (MBA) represented by Morena singing "Vodka"
Youtube, Lyrics
This song, is one I have mentioned that grows on me. Well it certainly does. Its a fun fast song! A song about alcohol though... hmmm....

17. Cyprus (CyBC) respresented by Evdokia Kadi singing "Femme Fatale"
Youtube, Lyrics
I really like this song as it has a really med feel to it. It also has folk influences, which will always endear it to me! But then it speeds up to make it modern. Its a good song, but no Greek votes in this Semi, so gaurenteed votes for Cyprus.

18. F.Y.R. Macedonia (MKRTV) represented by Tamara ft. Vrcak & Adrian Gaxha singing "Let Me Love You"
Youtube, Lyrics
A nice song from this balkan ecountry. A nice mix modern and folk influences which have been quite to the fore in this semi, but coming after Cyprus coulkd affect that.

19. Portugal (RTP) represented by Vânia Fernandes singing "Senhora do Mar"
Youtube, Lyrics
A ballad to close this semi. Ballads, werent as frequent in this semi as the first one. But do the televoters want another Ballad? It a nice song, but seams fairly bland to me.

So thats it. All 19 entries. Dont forget that France, the UK and Serbia will also be voting in this semi.

Before I give my predictions lets take a look at allkindsofeverthing's predictions for the second semi final. By looking at past voting they came up with the following nine entries

* Ukraine
* Hungary
* Bulgaria
* Sweden
* Malta
* Latvia
* Croatia
* Belarus
* FYR Macedonia

So thats their Predictions but what are mine?

Stephen's Kiss of Death Predictions

So I think the following will get through

* Ukraine
* Sweden
* Bulgaria
* Denmark
* Malta
* Croatia
* Latvia
* Georgia
* FYR Macedonia
* Hungary

There we go. How many will I get right? Time will tell!
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Source:
Lyrics - Lyrics and Translations
Songs and Running Order - Eurovision Website

Previous Post:
Eurovision Semi-Final One: Preview and Prediction

Ireland no longer Favourite to Win Eurovision

The days after Dustin won Eurosong saw Ireland top the betting tables as favourite to win the Eurovision Song Contest. Today that is no longer the case. Russia is now the favourite to win Eurovision. I must say I am delighted at this. A proper song is now favourite and it is a good song. Dima Bilan, Russia's representative this year, will sail from the Semi's as the song is proving very popular and is produced by Timbaland.

What are the odds?

According to Paddy Power Russia is at 4-1 to win the Eurovision Song Contest and according to BestBetting Russia also at 4-1. Ireland has slipped back to third place on Paddy Power's odds, at 5-1, but is back in fourth on BestBetting, at 10-1. Serbia is seconded favourite at 9-2 according to PaddyPower and 6-1 at BestBetting. BestBetting also have Armenia ahead of Ireland at 7-1, while Paddy Power have them in fouth at 10-2.

Who arent worth backing according to the odds?

Here are the countries forcasted not to well. Paddy Power have Montenegro, Moldova, Netherlands and San Marino at 150-1. Paddy Power also has Cyprus, Lithuania, Belarus, Czech Republic, Croatia and FYR Macedonia at 100-1. Best Betting has Moldova and Montenegro at 500-1. Just ahead of them at 300-1 is San Marino and the Czech Republic. At 250-1 is FYR Macedonia, Netherlands, and Lithuania. At 150-1 is Croatia, the UK and Cyprus. Note to self do not support these acts this year!

I know I have previewed the First Semi, the Second Semi will be up by weeks end! (I hope!)

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Source:
Paddy Power.com
BestBetting.com

Eurovision Semi-Final One: Preview and Prediction

Its 49 days to the start of the first part of the Eurovision Song Contest 2008 in Belgrade, Serbia. It will take place on the 20th of May. Here is a short preview of the 19 contestents in the running order of the Songs in Semi-Final 1. I'll make my usual terrible predictions but they may be updated when I get the CD, which is released the end of April.


Entries

1. Montenegro (RTCG) represented by Stefan Filipović, singing "Zauvijek Volim Te"
Youtube, Lyrics
Good song, I like it. Its one you can click your fingers too! A nice song that will do well I think.

2. Israel (IBA) represented by Boaz singing "The Fire In Your Eyes"
Youtube, Lyrics
I really like this song. Good melody and a strong singer. Has a nice med feel to it. Will qualify I think.

3. Estonia (ETV) represented by Kreisiraadio singing "Leto Svet"
Youtube, Lyrics
The first of this years joke entries. Just take a look at the lyrics translation. Terrible song. I hate it.

4. Moldova (TRM) represented by Geta Burlacu singing "A Century Of Love"
Youtube, Lyrics
Nice blues feel to this song, like the Czech Republic last year. A nice song. Geta is a good singer and performs this song very well. One to watch.

5. San Marino (SMRTV) represented by Miodio singing "Complice"
Youtube, Lyrics
Nice rock feel to this song for San Marino's Debut entry. This is my first time listening to it and I am impressed. Its a really good song. I hope it does well. (thes are good looking too! :P )

6. Belgium (VRT) represented by Ishtar singing "O Julissi"
Youtube, Lyrics
This song is in a non-sensical language. The second time Belgium have done this. The last time they did it, they came second. It reminds me of a Disney song for some reason! I like it, its one you can clap along to!

7. Azerbaijan (İctimai) represented by Elnur & Samir singing "Day After Day"
Youtube, Lyrics
This years second debutant. Another rock song, which im really liking, though I am not a fan of the start of the song as I like my ears! I think the rest of the song makes up for it though. Good to see Lordi still having an influence! An excellent song.

8. Slovenia (RTVSLO) represented by Rebeka Dremelj singing "Vrag Naj Vzame"
Youtube, Lyrics
A nice upbeat song. The first one in this Semi, so that could work to its advantage. I really like this song and think it will do well. Rebeka is a good singer and seams full of energy so could be a good performance in Belgrade.

9. Norway (NRK) represnted by Maria Haukaas Storeng singing "Hold On Be Strong"
Youtube, Lyrics
Not sure if this can be classed as a ballad or not. Im saying not at the moment. Its a good song. I love the beat and Maria is a good singer. It dosent really stand out for me at the moment though.

10. Poland (TVP) represented by Isis Gee singing "For Life"
Youtube, Lyrics
Just past the halfway mark and we will have our first ballad, which I normally dont like but Isis is a fantastic singer and I am hugely impressed with this song! I love it and I think it will do well. It is a vast improvement on Polands entry last year.

11. Ireland (RTÉ) represented by Dustin the Turkey singing "Irelande Douze Pointe"
Youtube, Lyrics
No, No, No. Normally my patriotism has kicked in at this point and I would be supporting Ireland, but god no. Everytime I hear this song it drives me barmy!! Though coming mid-point in the show it could do well enough to qualify, but I doubt. Even Dervish were better then this! I dount even Albania would vote for this!

12. Andorra (RTVA) represnted by Gisela singing "Casanova"
Youtube, Lyrics
I really like this fast paced song. It a really good song. I think this will qualify.

13. Bosnia & Herzegovina (BHRT) represented by Laka singing "Pokušaj"
Youtube, Lyrics
I just dont get it! Very strange song. I really dont get the chicken or whats going but, thats eurovision!!! I dont think this will qualify

14. Armenia (AMPTV) represented by Sirusho singing "Qele, Qele"
Youtube, Lyrics
Good upbeat song, kinda infectious beat to it. Im liking it. Sirusho has a great voice also!

15. The Netherlands (NOS) represented by Hind singing "Your Heart Belongs To Me"
Youtube, Lyrics
The Netherlands has decided not to enter a ballad this year! Yay!!! This is an fabulous song. I really like it! It has a nice Spanish feel to it.

16. Finland (YLE) represented by Teräsbetoni singing "Missä Miehet Ratsastaa"
Youtube, Lyrics
If proof was needed that Lordi have influenced any entries this year, then this is the one! Really good song, looks like they will have a distinctive 'style' on stage also! I wonder how well it will do?? Have we moved on from 2006?

17. Romania (TVR) represented by Nico & Vlad singing "Pe-o Margine De Lume"
Youtube, Lyrics
A traditional balled from Romania, which is hugely influenced by lasts years winner. Im kind of disappointed as Romania normally go for something different. But this is a beautiful song. The two singers are well suited to each other and I think this will qualify easily as it is a lovely song.

18. Russia (RTR) represented by Dima Bilan singing "Believe"
Youtube, Lyrics
Dima's second trip to Eurovision. Good modern pop song. Dosent really stand out for me, but I think Russia is more or less sure of qualification. It is a good song though. It improves at the end. Wondering will he hit the high note in Belgrade though?

19. Greece (ERT) represented by Kalomira singing "Secret Combination"
Youtube, Lyrics
The last song in this semi-final and again is a pop song, which could work against it due to being after Russia. It's a nice song though. Greece have a had a few good entries lately and normally do well. This continues there good picks and will do well.


Opinion and Predictions
This Semi looks like it will be a good show with strong ballads from Poland and Romania as well as some rock from Finland and San Marino. Unfortuantely there is the Joke entries, Ireland, Estonia and Bosnia, which is a pity in my opinion as over the last few years Estonia and Bosnia have entered some good songs. I mentioned a previous prediction before from allkindofeverything.ie which based its prediction on past voting patterns and heres a reminder of theirs:

1. Russia
2. Romania
3. Greece
4. Estonia
5. Israel
6. Armenia
7. Finland
8. Netherlands
9. Norway

So who are my picks?

I am going to try and pick the 10 that will qualify including the one selected by the jury vote though not say which one! So here goes Stephen's Kiss of Death Predictions (Nice title eh?). In no particular order.

Poland
Finland
Russia
Israel
San Marino
Norway
Andorra
Greece
Belgium
Armenia

The difference between my predictions this year and last year is that only nine of the entries in this semi-final wont be going through so the odds are better for me! Also dont forget as well as the 19 entrants, Germany and Spain will be voting in this semi-final.

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Sources:
Lyrics - Lyrics and Translations
Songs and Running Order - Eurovision Website

Grand Prix Vorentscheid 2008 - Live Blogging Attempt

Okay so heres an attempt at some live blogging. Its my first attempt so be patient! The show being braodcast live from Hamburg starts in about 20 mins. Not in Hamburg btw, watching it from the comfort of my 'office' as I'm starting to call the basement. TV is on, eventually found ARD (Das Erste) so all set to go!

BTW I do not speak german, so all my comments will be on my limited knowledge of the language and on the look of the performances.

But first the news. then we should be set to go!

Okay Short ad break hopefully! *crosses *fingers*

Okay here we go! Its starting! :D

Stage looks cool! have an area jutting into the audience for the judges I think. (PS OMG the presenters teeth! Thank god Terry Wogan aint commentating!)

I wish I knew what he was saying... wheres Joe when I need him...


Okay being introduced to the acts in the "Green Room" No talking just camera shots. Cinema Bizarre scare me and im normally into that kind of thing. No Angels look gogeous!

Ruslana OMG! She looks fab (as usual!) Shes singing Wild Dances! Ahh memories of Instinct...

Just a reminder Ruslana won the ESC back in 2004 for the Ukraine. She was also involved in the Orange Revolution of 2005!

Charlotte Niellson is now singing her 1999 wunning song "Take Me to Your Heaven" the winner for Sweden!

Now we have "Molitva" last years serbian winner Marija Šerifović!

We are now being introduced to the supporters of each entry. I have a press release somewhere about whos supporting who, but am looking for it!

Cant seam to find it but if you want to watch also the webcast is availible (top right!)

The supporters are: comedian Kim Fisher, comedian Tetje Mierendorf, comedian Oliver Pocher, singer Katja Ebstein and news anchor Marc Bator. Not sure who they each are supporting as I dont know, who is who!

Oh god he is now murdering Johnny Logans 'Hold me now' my ears...

I think they are taking turns in murdering ESC songs... So far murdered we have "Poupée de cire, poupée de son" (Luxembourg 1965), "Fly on the Wings of Love" (Denmark 2000), "Waterloo" (Sweden 1974), and im not sure of the last one...

Marquess is opening, now have a short 'postcard' about them. They are German, dont know why they are singing in Spanish...

So if anyway is voting later 01 is Marquess with "La Histeria.

Good song and the lead singer has a lot of stage presence. The Audience dont seam to be into it. I enjoyed it but Spanish songs havent done well lately for Spain so not sure how well it could do for Germany! Oliver Poucher is suporting them! Dont think it will do well, but my predictions are normally wrong. I don't think they should represent Germany

Now a 'postcard' on Tommy Reeve he will be singing a ballad called "Just One Woman". Last year germany gave Serbia 8 points so could go for a ballad this year. Number 02 for voting.

For some reason he is reminding me of Paolo Nutini (my spelling is shocking)
Very boring song, didnt impress me at all. Definately should not represent Germany. Kim Fisher is supporting him.

Cinema Bizarre up next with "Forever or Never". They are 03. They remind me alot of Tokio Hotel. They seam a tad off key to me. They look very stiff on stage. Oh they loosen up, slightly, at the chorus. Think at times it is too high. Not as good as it thought it would be. Though if there is an EMO vote tonight they will get it! Tetje Mierendorf is supporting them. They seam different to the other entries so far selected so could make germany stand out. But I wonder how the German televoters will see it.

Carolin Fortenbacher up next. She sang in Mamma Mia, so expect a good performance. She is singing the only German language entry, "Hinterm Ozean". Shes number 04 for voting.

She has a wind machine (i think). Carola (Sweden 2007) must be missing hers! Gently song, she shows magnificent stage presence. Great rousing finish, gets the crowd going. This is her home ground (she is from Hamburg). Excellent finish and a great performance. This is the one to beat I think. Great reaction from the audience! Katja Ebstein is supporting her.

No Angels up next. They are number 05 for the voting. Once they are finished I must run up for my handy to vote!

This is my favourite, lets see how they do live.

Oh nice, they came out of the floor. Great song, audience can be heard shouting for them! Nicely choreographed. Still my favourite. Am going to wait for the number to be giving out then run up for my handy. Marc Bator is supporting them. (As well as me)

okay have voted as they are doing a recap of the acts.

I really need to learn German, as I dont know what they are talking about.

After a quick look at the fans outside, we are back in the Green Room talking to the finalists.

Each act now has pleaded for votes. and now an interval act, Last years entry Roger Cicero.

More talking. Oh how I wish for subtitles in English!

Okay I think we are get results now.

Carolin Fortenbacher and No Angels are the final two.

Voted again 21 for Fortenbacher and 22 for No Angels

We know have a medley of Katja Ebstein's three ESC entries for Germany (1970, 1971 and 1980). "Diese Welt", "Wunder gibt es immer wieder" and "Theater". In 1980 she finished 2nd to Johnny Logan! Must say I only know "Diese Welt".

Lines are now closed as the finalist come back on stage.

Roger Cicero comes out with the results, Im all excited.
No Angels win! The orchestra launch into 'Congratulations' Love it! For once I backed an ESC (even in a National Final) winner!

Thats it now. Best of luck to No Angels in Belgrade!

'My only Fear is voters all over the world will say "vote for the turkey" and people will take it to mean "vote for Turkey" '

Could this be Irelands Downfall? This "fear" was posted on the ToytownGermany Eurovison Thread. Its a good point maybe Dustin should become a Duck for Eurovision? :P

I seam to be in the small minority of people who think that Ireland will not get out of the Semi-Final. Bestbetting (5.4-1) currently have Ireland as favourites to WIN eurovision!?! (Serbia are second). According to Paddy Power Ireland are 1-5 to get out of the Semi and are also favourites to win the contest (4-1)! (They have Ukraine, Romania and Latvia second favourites)

I suppose the huge media interest in Dustin will ensure he is well known across Europe, but will the televoters pluck up the courage to vote for him?

As an Irish person living in Germany, I'm not sure If I will vote for Dustin, but I suppose I will vote for Ireland in the Semi, I'm not so sure about the final though.

Thankfully I have found a prediction that does not agree with the betting odds, though its based on past voting patterns and does not include San Marinos or Azerbaijan votes. Allkindsofeverything.ie in its prediction (its just for fun, but I like to see it as supporting my stance!) the following 9 countries will get through (points in brackets):

1. Russia (108)
2. Romania (94)
3. Greece (91)
4. Estonia (77)
5. Israel (75)
6. Armenia (75)
7. Finland (73)
8. Netherlands (73)
9. Norway (72)
10. Jury Selection

Of course this a pure mathamatical prediction, the songs picked or performances have no sway. 114 points are not allocated (San Marino and Azerbaijan)

Ireland will get 25 points (I wouldnt agree with that) and only gets points from Andorra (2), Armenia (2), Estonia (6), Finland (3), Norway (8) and Romania (4).

Irish votes will go to:
Greece (1)
Israel (2)
Romania (3)
Russia (4)
Slovenia (5)
Poland (6)
Netherlands (7)
Norway (8)
Belgium (10)
Estonia (12)

In theire assement of Ireland its has to following to say (this is in terms of past support)

IRELAND may have the best Eurovision history, but the last few years have been generally disappointing and with all of Ireland's biggest supporters, including the U.K., Lithuania, Hungary and Portugal being involved in the second semi-final, it looks like an Irish entry may not qualify, for the second time in four years. With Irish televoters favourites, the U.K. and Lithuania not in this semi-final field, the Irish points could go to Estonia, Belgium, a country traditionally favoured by the Irish or even Poland, which has a large emigrant population in Ireland.

Stay tuned for (maybe) some live blogging of the German final tonight.

12 to go... Grand Prix Vorentscheid 2008 (German Preview)

There is only 12 countries left to decide for Eurovision. They are:
*Montenegro
*The Netherlands
*San Marino
*Belgium
*Armenia
*Russia
*Portugal
*Sweden
*Spain
*Serbia
*France
*Germany

Germany is holding its national final, Grand Prix Vorentscheid 2008, on Thursday 6th of March in Hamburg. It will be shown on ARD at 20:15. Here are the 5 finalists. Most of the songs are in English, with one in German and one in Spanish (!?!?!)

No Angels - Disappear


Fabulous song. I like No Angels anyway. Think I will be voting for this song on Thursday. I did it could do well at the Grand Prix.

Marquess - La Histeria


Don't ask me why it is in Spanish. Its a nice song, but I cant see Germans voting for it.

Tommy Reeve - Just One Woman


Nice ballad, which are popular after last year, but will see how it does here in Germany. If it wins, expect the German 12 points to go to a ballad.

Cinema Bizarre - Forever Or Never


Lordi still having an influence! This crowd remind me of Tokio Hotel! Its a good song, but I wont be voting for them. Basically cause Joe will kill me!

Carolin Fortenbacher - Hinterm Ozean (Behind The Ocean)


The only German language song in the final. Another ballad. Dont think its as good as Tommy Reeve's one.

Thats it for now. After the weekend I will do a full round up of qualified songs before they are all done.

Eurovision: Entries confirmed so far, 24th Feb

I have an list previously, but as yesterday was Super Saturday heres and updated list in order of Semi Final and Finalists. (Reminder: running order draw is on the March 17th). I will try to link to the youtube video for each song. Participants have until March 16th to submit entries.

Semi Final 1:

(86 days away)

• Montenegro (RTCG): Stefan Filipović. Song still to be decided.


• Finland (YLE): Not decided.


• Greece (EIRT): Not decided.


• Ireland (RTÉ): Dustin The Turkey with "Irelande Douze Points" (Youtube)


• Israel (IBA): Boaz Mauda. Song still to be Decided.


• Poland (TVP): Isis Gee with "For Life" (Youtube)


• Bosnia & Herzegovina (BHRT): Elvir Lakovic Laka with "Pokusaj". Song will be released on March 3rd.


• Estonia (ETV): Kreisiraadio with "Leto Svet" (Youtube)


• The Netherlands (NOS): Hind. Song still to be decided.


• Romania (TVR): Nico & Vlad Mirita with "Pe-o Margine De Lume" (Youtube)


• Moldova (TRM): Geta Burlacu with "A Century Of Love" (Youtube)


• San Marino (SMRTV): Not decided. (Debut Grand Prix)


• Slovenia (RTVSLO): Rebeka Dremelj with "Vrag Naj Vzame" (Youtube)


• Norway (NRK): Maria Haukaas Storeng with "Hold On Be Strong" (Youtube)


• Belgium (VRT): Not decided.


• Andorra (RTVA): Gisela with "Casanova" (Youtube)


• Armenia (AMPTV): Sirusho. Song still be decided.


• Azerbaijan (İctimai): Elnur Guseynov. Song still be decided. (debut Grand Prix)


• Russia (RTR): Not decided.

Semi Final 2:

(88 days away)

• Croatia (HRT): Kraljevi Ulice & 75 Cents with "Romanca" (Youtube)


• Denmark (DR): Simon Mathew with "All Night Long" (Youtube)


• Bulgaria (BNT): Deep Zone & Balthazar with "DJ, Take Me Away" (Youtube)


• Portugal (RTP): Not decided.


• Ukraine (NTU): Ani Lorak with "Shady Lady" (Youtube)


• Switzerland (SRG SSR idée suisse): Paolo Meneguzzi with "Era Stupendo" (Youtube)


• F.Y.R. Macedonia (MKRTV): Tamara, Vrčak & Adrian with "Vo Ime Na Ljubovta" (Youtube)


• Iceland (RÚV): Euroband with "This Is My Life" (Youtube)


• Cyprus (CyBC): Evdokia Kadi with "Femme Fatale" (Youtube)


• Latvia (LTV): Not decided.


• Belarus (BTRC): Ruslan Alenho with "Hasta La Vista" (Youtube)


• Hungary (MTV): Csézy with "Szívverés" (Youtube)


• Albania (RTSH): Olta Boka with "Zemrën E Lamë Peng" (Youtube)


• Sweden (SVT): Not decided.


• Turkey (TRT): Mor ve Ötesi with "Deli" (Youtube)


• Lithuania (LRT): Jerominas Milius with "Nomads In The Night" (Youtube)


• Georgia (GPB): Not decided.


• Czech Republic (ČT): Tereza Kerndlová with "Have Some Fun" (Youtube)


• Malta (MBA): Morena with "Vodka" (Youtube)

Final:

(90 days away)

• France (France 3): Not decided.


• Germany (NDR): Not decided.


• Serbia (RTS): Not decided.


• Spain (TVE): Not decided.


• United Kingdom (BBC): Not decided.

Phew, thats over. 20 countries still left to decide. So expect at least one more post like this! Enjoy the songs. Leave comments about your favouites!

Dustin for Eurovision: The links

I got invited to the Facebook group supporting Dustin today so I decided to see what was on the ol' web about it.

There is 92,000 results on google for "Dustin for Eurovision"

Thers a bebo profile where he might Do the Flap Falps if people put him as their top friend!

Dustin is a 1-3 favourite to be the Winner of Eurosong according to Paddypower.com

Theres a Flickr Group

thats all the groups and that I can find, plenty of news stories and forum topics on it though. If anyone knows of a website or blog about Dustin's entry please let me know!

Eurovision: Dustin suffers backlash

Some people dont seam to be very happy over Dustin's selection as one of the 6 finalists in Eurosong this year!

From last Tuesday's Indo:

DUSTIN the Turkey seriously considered pulling out of the Eurosong contest yesterday as controversy erupted over his selection as one of the six Irish finalists .


After hearing nearly 45 minutes of angry radio debate about the fact that the celebrity puppet had made the grade, Dustin thought about throwing in the towel for "nearly a full second", he confirmed last night.

But the bookies' favourite has decided to battle on.

"I am doing this for Ireland," he said.

The crticism came from three of the country's top music men, songwriter Phil Coulter, Frank McNamara and Eurovision veteran Shay Healy.

Of course this means while they are babbling about Dustin hes getting attention while the other finalists are not!

The full list of Finalists are:

• 'Irelande Douze Pointe', Performed by Dustin the Turkey composed by Darren Smith, Simon Fine and Dustin the Turkey.



• 'Double Cross My Heart', performed by Donal Skehan, composed by Joel Humlén, Oscar Gorres and Charlie Mason.



• 'Time to Rise', performed by Maya, composed by Maja Slatinsek and Ziga Pirnat.



• 'Not Crazy After All', performed by Leona Daly, composed by Leona Daly and Steve Booker.



• 'Sometimes', performed by Liam Geddes, written by Susan Hewitt.



• 'Chances', written and performed Marc Roberts.

Eursong will take place in the University Concert Hall Limerick on Saturday 23 February from 7 to 8pm with the winner announced on the results show at 9.30pm.

Feb 23rd is Super Saturday for Eurovions Fans. As many as seven countries will select their entries for the 2008 Eurovision Song Contest. They include:

• Bulgaria


• Croatia


• FYR Macedonia


• Iceland


• Ireland


• Poland


• Romania

Will do more of an Eurovision Update tonight or tomorrow.

Interesting Facebook Groups

Facebook, Facebook, Facebook, thats what its all about nowadays. Bebo? Thats for kids! Or as someone said top me, "its the preteens version"!


So heres some interesting facebook groups in no Particular order.

Vote Yes to the Reform Treaty

A group for the supporters of the Lisbon Treaty. Have a sconce. I post interesting stuff there when I find it!

Resign, Mr Ahern

This group was set up by Gavin of Gavin's Blog I is one of the most popular Iirsh groups on Facebook. Its is full of information about the whole Ahern Saga. Definitely worth a look!

Eurovision Song Contest 2008

Ye were waiting for this one! Yes its a group I have set up. and its all in the title.

HSE: Not Fit For Purpose,

A group set up by a friend who works in the Health Service. It calls for the following:

• 1. Health education, health promotion, preventing disease on a population level



• 2. Strengthened primary care service that can deliver high quality health care and advice to people in their own communities without unnecessary hospital admissions



• 3. Fire the hordes of incompetent micro-managers in the HSE and various hospitals and hire managers with a proven track record



• 4. Stop antagonising front line staff. Support people who choose to work in a difficult environment. Engage with the people who deliver health care



• 5. Invest in greater supports and home care packages for the elderly and those with chronic illnesses



• 6. Increase the number of long term care beds and nursing homes for an aging population



• 7. Stop funding tax breaks for developers in the shape of colocated hospitals and invest in public facilities and more public beds

Young Fine Gael

The facebook group for YFG. There is also a senior party group. There is also YEPP and EPP groups, and a CDU group!