Over the years, Eurovision has provided us with a lot of amazing talent, as well as the more crazier entries, to put it lightly. In the run-up to Saturday’s final, I’d like to revisit some of those memorable, wacky contestants from recent years that we both love and hate. Guaranteed to have you laughing!
1. Verka Serduchka – “Dancing Lasha Tumbai” (Ukraine, 2007)
Let’s start off strong with arguably the weirdest entry Eurovision has ever seen in its 63 year tenure. Sparkly tin foil outfits, sunglasses indoors, a man “in drag”, ridiculous headpieces, crazy dancing and the most addictive tune. Doesn’t this just sum up Eurovision? gettyimages
2. Lordi – “Hard Rock Hallelujah” (Finland, 2006)
A monster heavy metal band. I’m sure everyone that knows Eurovision knows this act. Lordi certainly made a name for themselves throughout Europe in 2006, and won Finland their very first Eurovision. Uniquely ridiculous and terrifying (for any child)!
3. Dustin The Turkey – “Irelande Douze Pointe” (Ireland, 2008)
Eurovision powerhouse, Ireland, went crazy in 2008 when they entered a turkey puppet as their act. As if this wasn’t enough, Dustin sang one too many controversial “truths” which didn’t really go his way… Overall, just totally wacky!
4. Buranovskiye Babushki – “Party For Everybody” (Russia, 2012)
Russia’s entry in 2012 showed that age doesn’t matter when it comes to Eurovision. The oldest contestants to grace the stage, the six “grannies” gave it their all on stage. Not the most musically talented, but certainly energetic and had the audience all falling for them.
5. Zdob Si Zdub – “Boonika Bate Toba” (Moldova, 2005)
I have no words. I’ll just let “Grandmama hit the drum” speak for itself.
6. Jedward – “Lipstick” (Ireland, 2011)
Remember that time Jedward came on Eurovision? Yeah, you’re not the only one trying to erase it from your mind… Pretty catchy though, if I must admit it myself…
Bonus: They returned the following year to represent Ireland again with “Waterline”. They weren’t as successful this time round though… Maybe the metallic outfits had something to do with it…?
7. LT United – “We Are The Winners” (Lithuania, 2006)
Plot twist: they weren’t the winners. Bit embarrassing, right?
8. Silvia Night – “Congratulations” (Iceland, 2006)
Persona or genuine diva? Nobody knew then, and nobody knows now. This is one to inspire you all with a little more self-confidence maybe, or rather, just irritate you. Judge for yourself! It’s certainly pretty catchy though!
9. Michalis Rakintzis – “S.A.G.A.P.O” (Greece, 2002)
The first (and only, thankfully!) time Eurovision had Team Terminator performing.
10. Cezar – “It’s My Life” (Romania, 2013)
The operatic vampire. Every song contest needs one.
11. Netta – “Toy” (Israel, 2018)
The latest one to be added to the list is this year’s Israelian entry which is all kinds of weird, with its blend of vocals and chicken sounds, paired with some chicken dancing. Yes, you read that right.
Whether it is providing us with quality music (as it often does) or an array of absolute weirdness as illustrated here, Eurovision never disappoints. What wackiness will future years bring to our screens?
Catch the Eurovision Grand Final on Saturday on BBC One at 8pm.