Eurovision 2023

4/21/2023

As one of the most popular international music competitions, the Eurovision Song Contest is a highly anticipated event each year. With countries from all over Europe (and some from outside of Europe) submitting their best musical talents, there is always a wealth of amazing performances to enjoy. As a dedicated fan of the competition, I have taken it upon myself to compile a list of my top picks for the 2023 Eurovision entries.

We planned on attending this year in person, but unfortunately the tickets sold out in five minutes and I didn't stand a chance. So we'll have a party instead. These aren't in any order, and I provide my predictions for how they'll do in the competition.

Finland: Käärijä - Cha Cha Cha

The first time I listened, I hated it. Cheap synths and euro-rap? NTY. Then I saw it performed live and the crowd is WILD for it. I won't be surprised if chanting cha cha cha is what everyone is doing by the end of the night. I used the live version here so you can see how fun it is.

Prediction: Top 3

Austria: Teya & Salena - Who The Hell Is Edgar?

I think this song is about being possessed by the ghost of Edgar Allen Poe? I don't know, but it's really fun.

If I'm getting this right, it's a message about how hard it is for female songwriters to get recognition in the music industry. Being possessed by a 19th century man would give more credence to their work.

Prediction: Top 10

Norway: Alessandra - Queen Of Kings

Standard Eurovision bop. It's made it to my regular playlists. It feels like a sea shanty, which is giving me early pandemic flashbacks... but in a good way. I'm hoping that the staging includes her on some kind of giant viking ship or something.

"I am bisexual and when I lived in Italy I had to hide who I was because some of my friends and relatives would not approve," says Alessandra. "So I think it's important to accept who we are, without caring about the opinion of others."

We stan a bisexual queen (of kings)!

Prediction: Top 5

Spain: Blanca Paloma - EAEA

I am obsessed. The first time I heard it, I had no idea what I was listening to, but it's one of the most interesting and different entries of the year.

It's all handclaps and incredible vocals. Her voice is everything. I'm nervous for how it'll sound live, but she can absolutely pull it off.

Prediction: Top 3

UK: Mae Muller - I Wrote A Song

It's fun and catchy. And a great wordless chant in the post-chorus. I don't think it'll win, but it'll be a good way to close out the show.

Prediction: Top 10

Honorable Mention: Sweden: Loreen - Tattoo

This doesn't even feel fair! Entering someone who won in 2012. The staging is beautiful, and the song starts in a way that reminds me of ABBA "The Winner Takes It All", one of my favorite ABBA songs.

I'm not sure if a country should be allowed to bring back a previous winner, but I won't be mad if it wins.

Prediction: Every bookie has it winning 😰