Mark Savage, Music Correspondent, reports that Alma Bengtsson from Australia’s Go-Jo is among the 37 artists vying for the Eurovision trophy in Basel, Switzerland. The 2025 Eurovision Song Contest kicks off with a “turquoise carpet” parade featuring competitors from all 37 nations. However, the real competition starts on Tuesday with the first semi-final eliminating five countries. Another six will be eliminated at the second semi-final on Thursday before the Grand Final takes place on Saturday, 17 May in Basel, Switzerland. This year’s entrants include two returning contestants, an opera singer, and a dance anthem about a dead space dog. To help you prepare, here’s a guide to all 37 songs in the contest, categorized mainly for the author’s sanity. Mark Savage’s ice cream van may not be the safest mode of transportation, so interpret that as you wish. On a brighter note, Australia’s Milkshake Man brings a disco funk vibe that could potentially get them back in the Eurovision finals. Then there’s Finland’s Erika Vikman with Ich Komme, described as a joyous message of pleasure and ecstasy.
Moving on to more emotional topics, three Eurovision contestants this year have been inspired by their experiences with cancer. Louane from France, Kyle Alessandro from Norway, and Klemen Slakonja from Slovenia all share powerful stories in their songs. Louane’s Maman is a touching conversation with her late mother, while Kyle’s Lighter is an uplifting pop anthem about overcoming adversity. Klemen’s How Much Time Do We Have Left reflects his journey with his wife’s cancer diagnosis.
Lastly, the Eurovision lineup is filled with energetic bops this year. From Belgium’s Red Sebastian with Strobe Lights to Denmark’s Sissal and Germany’s Abor & Tynna with their catchy tunes, there’s no shortage of dance-worthy tracks. Despite some setbacks, these artists are sure to bring a memorable performance to the Eurovision stage. Mark Savage
Unfortunately, the depth of the music doesn’t quite live up to its initial promise.
On the other hand, Spanish artist Melody shines with Esa Diva, a lively house track infused with flamenco guitar, chronicling her rise to stardom.
Meanwhile, Mamagama from Azerbaijan channels Maroon 5 vibes in their song Run With U, featuring a saz riff that adds a unique twist to the smooth pop tune.
Post-immigrant pop
Sarah Louise Bennett / Alma Bengtsson
From left to right: Shkodra Elektronike, Claude and Klavdia
Borrowing a description from Shkodra Elektronike, an Albanian duo based in Italy, who blend their hometown’s ethnic music with a modern electronic sound.
Their track Zjerm (Fire) envisions a world where cultural understanding leads to peace and harmony, eliminating the need for conflict and war.
Greece’s entry, Asteromáta, delves into the deep connection refugees have with their homeland, blending traditional Greek and Pontic elements with powerful strings.
On a more upbeat note, Dutch singer Claude pays tribute to his mother in C’est La Vie, infusing chanson and French-Caribbean zouk elements into a joyful and uplifting tune.
Witchcraft, sorcery, and moody goth boys
Sarah Louise Bennett / Alma Bengtsson
From left to right: Theo Evan, Justyna Steczkowska, and Marko Bošnjak
Following the success of “goth gremlin witch” Bambie Thug, this year’s Eurovision lineup features a host of mystical and dark-themed acts.
Polish singer Justyna Steczkowska incorporates a Slavic magic spell in Gaja, invoking the spirit of Mother Earth to cleanse her from a toxic relationship.
Meanwhile, Marko Bošnjak from Croatia presents a dramatic performance in Poison Cake, inspired by his personal struggles with online hate.
Latvian group Tautumeitas brings an ethereal vibe with their chant for happiness in Bur Man Laimi, reminiscent of Bjork and Enya.
Cyprus’s Theo Evan adds a mysterious touch with his song Shh, teasing a hidden truth to be unveiled on the Eurovision stage.
Among the standout acts is Czechia’s Adonxs with Kiss Kiss Goodbye, a haunting exploration of familial relationships.
Lithuanian band Katarsis presents a downbeat rock song titled Tavo Akys, with a powerful climax but uncertain reception among viewers.
Armenia’s Parg and Serbia’s Princ round out the lineup with Survivor and Mila, respectively, showcasing emotional ballads that may struggle to advance in the competition.
70s rock throwbacks
Getty Images / Alma Bengtsson
From left to right: Lucio Corsi, Napa, and Ziferblat
Continuing the rock revival trend post-Måneskin’s victory, Italy’s Lucio Corsi brings a glam rock ballad Volevo Essere Un Duro, celebrating individuality and resilience.
The diverse lineup at this year’s Eurovision promises a mix of genres and themes, ensuring a captivating competition for music enthusiasts worldwide. Pada satu titik, Mark Savage menyanyikan: “Daripada bintang, [saya] hanya bersin.”
Ini adalah bagian dari penulisan lagu yang abadi yang berhasil melakukan trik Eurovision yang penting yaitu terdengar baru dan akrab sekaligus.
Band indie Portugal, Napa juga memiliki vibe tahun 70-an, mengingatkan pada Wings milik Paul McCartney dalam lagu rock lembut yang menyayat hati Deslocado (di luar tempat).
Ini adalah lagu lain tentang migrasi, ditulis setelah band itu terpaksa pindah dari Madeira ke daratan Portugal karena krisis ekonomi.
“Meskipun kami sudah berada di sini selama beberapa tahun, kami selalu memiliki keinginan untuk kembali, dan kegelisahan untuk mengucapkan selamat tinggal kepada keluarga,” kata penyanyi Guilherme Gomes.
Terakhir adalah Ziferblat dari Ukraina, yang melanjutkan rangkaian luar biasa negara tersebut dalam mengikuti kontes di tengah perang dengan Rusia.
Lagu mereka, Bird Of Pray, adalah campuran tak terduga dari band new wave tahun 70-an Cars, nyanyian burung, dan riff gitar dari lagu Rachel Stevens’ Sweet Dreams My LA Ex – sementara liriknya penuh dengan harapan untuk pertemuan damai dengan orang yang dicintainya.
Lebih baik daripada yang terdengar.
Ballad
Shai Franco / Sarah Louise Bennett / Maurice Haas
Dari kiri ke kanan: Yuval Raphael, Nina Žižić dan Zoë Më
Di mana Eurovision tanpa wanita bermata hitam menyanyikan ke mesin angin diatur ke “badai”? The name is Savage, Mark Savage.