The Ukraine literally banned the Russian entry into the contest from the country so they couldn't perform. Not to mention the fact that the only reason Ukraine won last year was because it was 100% political and got sympathy votes because of it. Or how countries just tend to vote for other countries they're on good terms with or neighbors with. Basically, it's not about the music, just political statements. I'd rather they keep politics out of my entertainment, but apparently people just can't stop. So I stopped watching.
I've watched the first semi-final today. Unfortunately, some interesting songs and good performances did not qualify to the grand final (I liked Slovenia and Albania a lot, for example). On the other hand, I'm so glad for some qualifiers like Greece or Armenia. As for the second semi-final which will take place this Thursday, my favourite ones are Estonia, Denmark and Switzerland. Finally, from the Big Five, I love the Italian song (I want this country to win) and the French song. Additionally, I think that the UK will do a brilliant performance (based on the rehearsals).
I agree with Lazuri about the politics. I like it when songwriters get political in their songs and I enjoy music with political themes, but the way it happens in Eurovision is just dumb. Also Eurovision in general seems to me like a festival of Europe's most boring songs, with very few exceptions.
The last song that won that I actually felt like it deserved it was Euphoria, because it was original and powerful. Before then, I literally can't remember how long its been.
Me too. Loreen actually had an entry into the Swedish contest this year. It wasn't as good as "Euphoria" but it was way better and more powerful than the piece of shit we ended up sending. EDIT: actually, here it is. [YOUTUBE]ejU7RKmmJMQ[/YOUTUBE]
Alright, this year did, admittedly have a good win. The song was pleasant, original and I can't really seem to notice any political motivation behind voting for it.
