The highly anticipated Eurovision Song Contest 2025 kicks off on Sunday with a glamorous “turquoise carpet” parade featuring competitors from all 37 participating nations. However, the real action begins on Tuesday with the first semi-final, where five countries will be eliminated, followed by another six who will face the same fate in Thursday’s second semi-final. The Grand Final is set to take place on Saturday, May 17, in Basel, Switzerland.
This year’s lineup includes an eclectic mix of entrants, ranging from seasoned performers to quirky themes, ensuring a memorable competition. Among the highlights are returning contestants, a professional opera singer, and songs that touch on everything from poignant social issues to light-hearted humor.
Genre-bending entries and catchy pop anthems
Among the standout acts are UK contestants Remember Monday, whose entry, titled “What The Hell Just Happened?”, promises a blend of pop influences reminiscent of Queen and The Beatles. The track features eight tempo changes, showcasing their vocal harmonies and vibrant stage presence while steering clear of typical Eurovision tropes.
At the forefront of the competition are Swedish representatives KAJ, whose catchy anthem “Bara Bada Bastu” pays tribute to the rejuvenating experience of sauna culture, even earning praise from Abba’s Bjorn Ulvaeus. Meanwhile, Austria’s JJ captivates with his operatic ballad “Wasted Love”, which transitions into an unexpected techno breakdown, appealing to both traditional and modern musical tastes.
Luxembourg’s Laura Thorn offers a powerful message with her song “La Poupée Monte Le Son”, a contemporary take on female empowerment that challenges age-old stereotypes.
Thematic explorations and emotional depth
This year’s competition features an array of thematic explorations, including a notable presence of artists addressing personal struggles, such as cancer. Louane’s poignant track “Maman” reflects her grief over her mother’s passing, intertwining themes of loss and resilience.
Similarly, Norwegian contestant Kyle Alessandro draws inspiration from his mother’s cancer journey, creating a thumping pop anthem titled “Never Lose Your Light” that champions survival and hope. Slovenian comedian Klemen Slakonja also touches on this theme with his heartfelt ballad “How Much Time Do We Have Left”, inspired by his wife’s own battle with cancer.
In contrast, Malta’s Miriana Conte introduces a provocative club track called “Serving”, which cleverly navigates sexual innuendo while maintaining a fun and energetic performance. Australia’s Go-Jo also brings a cheeky flair with his entry “Milkshake Man”, prompting playful interpretations of its suggestive lyrics.
As the contest draws closer, the diverse musical styles and powerful narratives presented in this year’s entries promise to captivate audiences and highlight the rich tapestry of talent showcased at Eurovision 2025. With performances ranging from captivating ballads to infectious dance anthems, viewers can expect an unforgettable showcase of artistry and expression.
The excitement is palpable as fans await the opening ceremony in Basel, where the world’s gaze will be tuned in to witness the culmination of creativity and cultural celebration that is Eurovision.