This is a song from the Maltese semi finals 2009 called "Innocent heart" sung by Ruth Portelli. Written by uncle Ralph Siegel. Does it sound familiar in any way?
The answer can be found HERE!
Dansband + Youtube = sant
4 years ago
25.5.09
British rumors
After the British success with Andrew Lloyd Webber writing their entry the rumor about next year's "Your country needs you" is in full bloom. Some are saying that the natural step would be to involve old Take That member Gary Barlow who is supposed to be in charge of a similar talent show on BBC in the near future. Others are saying that we might have Elton John as a composer next year. These are of course only rumors but I would love the idea of Elton writing something classy and timeless for preferably someone already known to the public. Sugababes anyone?!?
Twitter-like updates from EBU
- Eurovision Song Contest 2009 had over 122 million viewers. That is 17 million more than last year. Yay!
- Norway only used their jury in the final due to a technical problem with the local phone operator. That is why they voted last of all countries as they were trying to solve the problem but did not succeed in time.
- There was a similar problem in Hungary where only the SMS votes could be used in the televote. Not sure how big the difference in the end was but I suspect that more people call than text, or is it just me who is old fashioned?
- One country in semi 2 did not get enough callers for the televote to be valid so only the jury was used. No mention of what country this could be. Maybe Slovakia?
- Spain only used jury in semi 2 since the local TV broadcaster did not show the event live - something which is not allowed. EBU promised consequences but what they might be nobody knows...
More juries + Finland televotes
Danish jury (1-12p): UK, Portugal, Russia, Azerbaijan, Lithuania, France, Germany, Estonia, Norway and Iceland.
Spanish jury (1-12p): Germany, Israel, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Moldova, Turkey, Portugal, France, Norway and UK.
Israeli jury (1-12p): Bosnia, Malta, Croatia, Moldova, UK, Armenia, Turkey, France, Norway and Iceland.
Slovenian jury (1-12p): Armenia, Sweden, Moldova, Iceland, Greece, Denmark, UK, Bosnia, France and Norway.
Slovenian TELEVOTE (1-12p): UK, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Denmark, Azerbaijan, Albania, Croatia, Norway and Bosnia.
Finnish TELEVOTE with total numbers in the semi final:
1. Iceland 9.846 votes, 2. Sweden 5.949, 3. Bosnia 4.237, 4. Turkey 2.693, 5. Israel 2.430, 6. Switzerland 2.219, 7. Belarus 2.103, 8. Malta 1.828, 9. Portugal 1.651, 10. Armenia 1.147, 11. Macedonia 787, 12. Andorra 703, 13. Romania 654, 14. Montenegro 549, 15. Belgium 469, 16. Bulgaria 404, 17. Czech Republic 241. (Total 37.910 votes.)
Finnish TELEVOTE with total numbers in the final:
1. Estonia 16.225 votes
2. Norway 15.560
3. Iceland 9.865
4. Sweden 7.517
5. Bosnia-Herzegovina 5.358
6. Azerbaijan 4.441
7. Turkey 3.909
8. France 3.467
9. Russia 3.180
10. Greece 2.757
11. Israel 2.292
12. Portugal 2.203
13. Albania 2.191
14. Malta 1.986
15. Denmark 1.692
16. UK 1.659
17. Germany 1.650
18. Lithuania 1.531
19. Armenia 1.409
20. Ukraine 1.242
21. Moldova 1.187
22. Romania 1.079
23. Croatia 947
24. Spain 672
(Totalt 94.019 röster.)
Spanish jury (1-12p): Germany, Israel, Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Moldova, Turkey, Portugal, France, Norway and UK.
Israeli jury (1-12p): Bosnia, Malta, Croatia, Moldova, UK, Armenia, Turkey, France, Norway and Iceland.
Slovenian jury (1-12p): Armenia, Sweden, Moldova, Iceland, Greece, Denmark, UK, Bosnia, France and Norway.
Slovenian TELEVOTE (1-12p): UK, Estonia, Greece, Iceland, Denmark, Azerbaijan, Albania, Croatia, Norway and Bosnia.
Finnish TELEVOTE with total numbers in the semi final:
1. Iceland 9.846 votes, 2. Sweden 5.949, 3. Bosnia 4.237, 4. Turkey 2.693, 5. Israel 2.430, 6. Switzerland 2.219, 7. Belarus 2.103, 8. Malta 1.828, 9. Portugal 1.651, 10. Armenia 1.147, 11. Macedonia 787, 12. Andorra 703, 13. Romania 654, 14. Montenegro 549, 15. Belgium 469, 16. Bulgaria 404, 17. Czech Republic 241. (Total 37.910 votes.)
Finnish TELEVOTE with total numbers in the final:
1. Estonia 16.225 votes
2. Norway 15.560
3. Iceland 9.865
4. Sweden 7.517
5. Bosnia-Herzegovina 5.358
6. Azerbaijan 4.441
7. Turkey 3.909
8. France 3.467
9. Russia 3.180
10. Greece 2.757
11. Israel 2.292
12. Portugal 2.203
13. Albania 2.191
14. Malta 1.986
15. Denmark 1.692
16. UK 1.659
17. Germany 1.650
18. Lithuania 1.531
19. Armenia 1.409
20. Ukraine 1.242
21. Moldova 1.187
22. Romania 1.079
23. Croatia 947
24. Spain 672
(Totalt 94.019 röster.)
20.5.09
Jury result (Final)
If only the juries had voted on Saturday without the televoters we would still have ended up with the same winner. And the same runner-up. The Brits and French would have moved up a few steps, as would the Danish (eh..why?) but Sweden would still be in the bottom.
Jury result
1. Norway (312 points)
2. Iceland (260 points)
3. United Kingdom (223 points)
4. France (164 points)
5. Estonia (124 points)
6. Denmark (120 points)
7. Turkey (114 points)
8. Azerbaijan (112 points)
9. Israel (107 points)
10. Greece (93 points)
11. Moldova (93 points)
12. Bosnia & Herzegovina (90 points)
13. Malta (87 points)
14. Germany (73 points)
15. Armenia (71 points)
16. Ukraine (68 points)
17. Russia (67 points)
18. Portugal (64 points)
19. Croatia (58 points)
20. Lithuania (31 points)
21. Romania (31 points)
22. Sweden (27 points)
23. Albania (26 points)
24. Finland (12 points)
25. Spain (9 points)
Thanks to Diarmuid for this information and the Belgian jury votes (see comment on "Swedish jury and more").
Jury result
1. Norway (312 points)
2. Iceland (260 points)
3. United Kingdom (223 points)
4. France (164 points)
5. Estonia (124 points)
6. Denmark (120 points)
7. Turkey (114 points)
8. Azerbaijan (112 points)
9. Israel (107 points)
10. Greece (93 points)
11. Moldova (93 points)
12. Bosnia & Herzegovina (90 points)
13. Malta (87 points)
14. Germany (73 points)
15. Armenia (71 points)
16. Ukraine (68 points)
17. Russia (67 points)
18. Portugal (64 points)
19. Croatia (58 points)
20. Lithuania (31 points)
21. Romania (31 points)
22. Sweden (27 points)
23. Albania (26 points)
24. Finland (12 points)
25. Spain (9 points)
Thanks to Diarmuid for this information and the Belgian jury votes (see comment on "Swedish jury and more").
18.5.09
Eurovision goes Opera
One of the things said in Swedish papers after Malena finished 21st on Saturday was that "perhaps Eurovision isn't ready for opera yet". Well, I hate to let you down but "La Voix" was not the first entry with an opera connection in this little contest. Far from it. You decide who did it best though...
Sweden 2009. Malena Ernman - "La Voix"
Only 2 years ago we heard opera with a disco-beat from Balkan. 15th place.
Slovenia 2007. Alenka Gotar - "Cvet z Juga"
Cheesy fake-opera á la Malta. 12th place.
Malta 2004. Julie & Ludwig - "On Again...Off Again"
More Balkan opera. I really like this one. 6th place.
Croatia 1995. Magazin & Lidija - "Nostalgija"
3 opera singers were flown in only to sing for 10 seconds in the end of this song. 5th place.
Italy 1984. Alice & Franco Battiato - "I Treni di Tozeur"
Hilarious novelty act about the opera world. A classic. 19th place (joint last with nil points).
Turkey 1983. Cetin Alp & The Short Waves - "Opera"
Even Sweden has sent an opera singer before. 44 years ago. 10th place out of 18.
Sweden 1965 . Ingvar Wixell - "Absent Friends" (Annorstädes vals)
Melodifestivalen has seen opera before too. I am still in love with this song 20 years on. Joint 5th place with Lili & Sussie.
MF 1989. Haakon Pedersen & Elisabeth Berg - "Nattens drottning"
Which operatic entry would you vote for?
Sweden 2009. Malena Ernman - "La Voix"
Only 2 years ago we heard opera with a disco-beat from Balkan. 15th place.
Slovenia 2007. Alenka Gotar - "Cvet z Juga"
Cheesy fake-opera á la Malta. 12th place.
Malta 2004. Julie & Ludwig - "On Again...Off Again"
More Balkan opera. I really like this one. 6th place.
Croatia 1995. Magazin & Lidija - "Nostalgija"
3 opera singers were flown in only to sing for 10 seconds in the end of this song. 5th place.
Italy 1984. Alice & Franco Battiato - "I Treni di Tozeur"
Hilarious novelty act about the opera world. A classic. 19th place (joint last with nil points).
Turkey 1983. Cetin Alp & The Short Waves - "Opera"
Even Sweden has sent an opera singer before. 44 years ago. 10th place out of 18.
Sweden 1965 . Ingvar Wixell - "Absent Friends" (Annorstädes vals)
Melodifestivalen has seen opera before too. I am still in love with this song 20 years on. Joint 5th place with Lili & Sussie.
MF 1989. Haakon Pedersen & Elisabeth Berg - "Nattens drottning"
Which operatic entry would you vote for?
Swedish jury and more
So it's been revealed who the "music-experts" in the Swedish jury were...
Sarah Dawn Finer, singer
Magnus Carlsson, singer (+ schlager fan)
Anna Charlotta Gunnarsson, TV/radio presenter (+ schlager fan)
Michael Cederberg, radio producer (+ schlager fan)
L-G Alsenius, radio producer
Eh, ok... Who was in charge of finding suitable people for the jury? Christer Björkman? I thought the jury was supposed to consist of trendy musicians and producers who knows what is quality and freshness anno 2009. Not just a bunch of ESC-fans. I can live with Sarah D Finer as she was one of the MF-jury's favourites this year, but the rest? Producing Svensktoppen isn't that hot!
I would much rather have seen Alexander Bard, Mr & Mrs Bagge or Andreas Carlsson (judges in Swedish Idols), Robyn, Marit Bergman etc. Did they all say no, SVT???
I am still awaiting the separate votes from the jury only. I hope they will be made public!
This is how Sweden (jury + televoters) voted in the semi:
1p Belarus
2p Switzerland
3p Portugal
4p Malta (what the fuck?!? Chiara was vile in the semi!)
5p Armenia
6p Israel (another question mark...)
7p Turkey
8p Bosnia-Herzegovina
10p Finland
12p Iceland
And in the final:
1p Albania
2p Greece
3p Armenia
4p Finland
5p Bosnia-Herzegovina
6p Turkey
7p Estonia
8p Azerbaijan
10p Iceland
12p Norway
The Finnish and Romanian jury results have been made public. Any readers knowing about other countries?
Finnish jury in the final (1-12p): Israel, Sweden, Bosnia, Armenia, Turkey, France, Malta, Norway, Estonia and Iceland.
Romanian jury in the final (1-12p): Azerbaijan, Israel, UK, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Armenia, Malta, Moldova, Iceland.
UPDATE!
Estonian jury in the final (1-12p): Azerbaijan, Germany, Sweden, Turkey, Albania, Portugal, Israel, Norway, Russia and Iceland.
Estonian televotes (1-12p): UK, Denmark, France, Sweden, Lithuania, Finland, Iceland, Azerbaijan, Russia and Norway.
Sarah Dawn Finer, singer
Magnus Carlsson, singer (+ schlager fan)
Anna Charlotta Gunnarsson, TV/radio presenter (+ schlager fan)
Michael Cederberg, radio producer (+ schlager fan)
L-G Alsenius, radio producer
Eh, ok... Who was in charge of finding suitable people for the jury? Christer Björkman? I thought the jury was supposed to consist of trendy musicians and producers who knows what is quality and freshness anno 2009. Not just a bunch of ESC-fans. I can live with Sarah D Finer as she was one of the MF-jury's favourites this year, but the rest? Producing Svensktoppen isn't that hot!
I would much rather have seen Alexander Bard, Mr & Mrs Bagge or Andreas Carlsson (judges in Swedish Idols), Robyn, Marit Bergman etc. Did they all say no, SVT???
I am still awaiting the separate votes from the jury only. I hope they will be made public!
This is how Sweden (jury + televoters) voted in the semi:
1p Belarus
2p Switzerland
3p Portugal
4p Malta (what the fuck?!? Chiara was vile in the semi!)
5p Armenia
6p Israel (another question mark...)
7p Turkey
8p Bosnia-Herzegovina
10p Finland
12p Iceland
And in the final:
1p Albania
2p Greece
3p Armenia
4p Finland
5p Bosnia-Herzegovina
6p Turkey
7p Estonia
8p Azerbaijan
10p Iceland
12p Norway
The Finnish and Romanian jury results have been made public. Any readers knowing about other countries?
Finnish jury in the final (1-12p): Israel, Sweden, Bosnia, Armenia, Turkey, France, Malta, Norway, Estonia and Iceland.
Romanian jury in the final (1-12p): Azerbaijan, Israel, UK, Norway, Denmark, Greece, Armenia, Malta, Moldova, Iceland.
UPDATE!
Estonian jury in the final (1-12p): Azerbaijan, Germany, Sweden, Turkey, Albania, Portugal, Israel, Norway, Russia and Iceland.
Estonian televotes (1-12p): UK, Denmark, France, Sweden, Lithuania, Finland, Iceland, Azerbaijan, Russia and Norway.
17.5.09
Gratulerer med dagen Norge!
Watch the welcoming Alexander Rybak got as he arrived back in Norway at the airport a few hours ago - on 17 May! Over 1000 people greeted him. Bless.
NRK video
NRK video
A few words about the show
Last night I saw the contest with a bunch of fans on SVT HD. We actually saw Alexander Ryback spitting during his performance, that's how good HD-TV is. Haha. Edward af Sillén and Shirley Clamp were very good as commentators and I hope they (or Ed at least) get to do it again next year. We laughed about Dima Bilan's jacket in the otherwise spectacular opening act, praised the high quality of songs and specially singing voices compared to the semi finals and had our own voting procedure. If I remember correctly Armenia was our winner. My points changed slightly from what I posted here earlier yesterday.
Posh votes after seeing the acts live: 1p UK, 2p Moldova, 3p Albania, 4p Azerbaijan, 5p Sweden, 6p Armenia, 7p Estonia, 8p Bosnia, 10p Iceland and 12p France.
On to the songs...
LIT: Stop wailing!!! It ruined the whole song, even if it was dull to begin with.
ISR: Mira is quite a stunner! Would like to hear more Arabic in Eurovision.
FRA: Goosebumps! The intensity. The voice. The eyes. Gorgeous performance. My number 1. So glad it got into the top 10.
SWE: Malena looked beautiful, smiled and flirted with the camera. Sang well. I was proud. Less good camera work. Such a shame it only came 21st in the voting. Was it the juries that didn't like it (like in Melodifestivalen)? Because in semi 1 she came 4th with televoting only... That's a rather big drop.
CRO: Competent but dull. Looked good on stage though.
POR: Nice and cosy but would go nowhere. The singer herself got touched by the moment in the end. Sweet.
ICE: Good camera work - it worked well with the song. Mild, haunting ballad. Made a very good impact.
GRE: First one that didn't sing too well. Great act but Sakis was OTT. Stop showing your tummy! Stop ripping your shirt open! Embarrassing. We weren't allowed to see Dita's nipple but Sakis dito is ok?
ARM: Happy. Oriental. Exotic. Better performance than on Thursday. I just wanna get up and dance!
RUS: Stop screaming girl! Boring song. The LED screens looked good though.
AZE: AySel was so much better than on Thursday. Good voice. Flirty. Beautiful.
BOS: Stunning Balkan-ballad with drums but lost votes by not once looking into the cameras. Difficult to connect with the singer then. Shame as it deserved better than finishing 9th.
MOL: Full of energy and joy which went through the TV-screen. This grew for me.
MAL: Boooooring. Sang better than in the semi. Just stop winking into the camera!
EST: Wonderful! Classy and sophisticated. Beautiful singer with perfect skin.
DEN: Completely dull. Nothing new or original. 13th?! I really don't get it...
GER: Oscar was OTT. Glittery pants - a good idea? Really? Dita von Teese got lost on stage with the camera work. Much a-do about nothing.
TUR: The singing was so-so but a good number. Maybe not top 4 material but I can live with that.
ALB: Kejsi was cute in a girl-next-door kinda way. Happiness in her eyes. Not the best mover but much is forgiven when it comes from Albania.
NOR: Much better performance than in the Thursday semi. You could hear the crowd cheering from the start. Had winner written all over it with that late draw.
UKR: Energetic stage show but weak voice from Svetlana. Better than in the semi.
ROM: Ok pop song but not interesting enough in this line-up.
UK: What's up with the vibrato? Was it always there? Looked good. Classical ballad. Jade got knocked by a violin. Nice to see the UK 5th. As soon as Wogan was out of the picture they were back in the game. I wonder what's next?! An established singer in Oslo?!
FIN: Karoliina's voice was not as strong due to a cold. Shame. But last? Poor Finland.
SPA: Why darkness on stage in the beginning? The camera work didn't help either. The performance looked too busy and Soraya's voice wasn't on top.
Posh votes after seeing the acts live: 1p UK, 2p Moldova, 3p Albania, 4p Azerbaijan, 5p Sweden, 6p Armenia, 7p Estonia, 8p Bosnia, 10p Iceland and 12p France.
On to the songs...
LIT: Stop wailing!!! It ruined the whole song, even if it was dull to begin with.
ISR: Mira is quite a stunner! Would like to hear more Arabic in Eurovision.
FRA: Goosebumps! The intensity. The voice. The eyes. Gorgeous performance. My number 1. So glad it got into the top 10.
SWE: Malena looked beautiful, smiled and flirted with the camera. Sang well. I was proud. Less good camera work. Such a shame it only came 21st in the voting. Was it the juries that didn't like it (like in Melodifestivalen)? Because in semi 1 she came 4th with televoting only... That's a rather big drop.
CRO: Competent but dull. Looked good on stage though.
POR: Nice and cosy but would go nowhere. The singer herself got touched by the moment in the end. Sweet.
ICE: Good camera work - it worked well with the song. Mild, haunting ballad. Made a very good impact.
GRE: First one that didn't sing too well. Great act but Sakis was OTT. Stop showing your tummy! Stop ripping your shirt open! Embarrassing. We weren't allowed to see Dita's nipple but Sakis dito is ok?
ARM: Happy. Oriental. Exotic. Better performance than on Thursday. I just wanna get up and dance!
RUS: Stop screaming girl! Boring song. The LED screens looked good though.
AZE: AySel was so much better than on Thursday. Good voice. Flirty. Beautiful.
BOS: Stunning Balkan-ballad with drums but lost votes by not once looking into the cameras. Difficult to connect with the singer then. Shame as it deserved better than finishing 9th.
MOL: Full of energy and joy which went through the TV-screen. This grew for me.
MAL: Boooooring. Sang better than in the semi. Just stop winking into the camera!
EST: Wonderful! Classy and sophisticated. Beautiful singer with perfect skin.
DEN: Completely dull. Nothing new or original. 13th?! I really don't get it...
GER: Oscar was OTT. Glittery pants - a good idea? Really? Dita von Teese got lost on stage with the camera work. Much a-do about nothing.
TUR: The singing was so-so but a good number. Maybe not top 4 material but I can live with that.
ALB: Kejsi was cute in a girl-next-door kinda way. Happiness in her eyes. Not the best mover but much is forgiven when it comes from Albania.
NOR: Much better performance than in the Thursday semi. You could hear the crowd cheering from the start. Had winner written all over it with that late draw.
UKR: Energetic stage show but weak voice from Svetlana. Better than in the semi.
ROM: Ok pop song but not interesting enough in this line-up.
UK: What's up with the vibrato? Was it always there? Looked good. Classical ballad. Jade got knocked by a violin. Nice to see the UK 5th. As soon as Wogan was out of the picture they were back in the game. I wonder what's next?! An established singer in Oslo?!
FIN: Karoliina's voice was not as strong due to a cold. Shame. But last? Poor Finland.
SPA: Why darkness on stage in the beginning? The camera work didn't help either. The performance looked too busy and Soraya's voice wasn't on top.
Semi 1 + 2 result
Semi 1
1. Iceland
2. Turkey
3. Bosnia
4. Sweden
5. Armenia
6. Malta
7. Israel
8. Portugal
9. Romania
10. FYR Macedonia
------------------
11. Montenegro
12. Finland
13. Belarus
14. Switzerland
15. Andorra
16. Bulgaria
17. Belgium
18. Czech Republic
Semi 2
1. Norway
2. Azerbaijan
3. Estonia
4. Greece
5. Moldova
6. Ukraine
7. Albania
8. Denmark
9. Lithuania
10. Serbia
----------------
11. Ireland
12. Poland
13. Croatia
14. Cyprus
15. Hungary
16. Slovenia
17. The Netherlands
18. Slovakia
19. Latvia
- Finland and Croatia made it to the final thanks to the jury.
- Macedonia and Serbia would have been through otherwise.
- Poor Macedonia being kicked out by the jury for the second year running in favour for a Nordic country.
- Czech Republic came last with nil points in semi 1. Latvia got 7p but was still last in semi 2.
- Fan-favourite Switzerland weren't even close. Shame!
- I feel sorry for Ireland as it was a close call for them.
1. Iceland
2. Turkey
3. Bosnia
4. Sweden
5. Armenia
6. Malta
7. Israel
8. Portugal
9. Romania
10. FYR Macedonia
------------------
11. Montenegro
12. Finland
13. Belarus
14. Switzerland
15. Andorra
16. Bulgaria
17. Belgium
18. Czech Republic
Semi 2
1. Norway
2. Azerbaijan
3. Estonia
4. Greece
5. Moldova
6. Ukraine
7. Albania
8. Denmark
9. Lithuania
10. Serbia
----------------
11. Ireland
12. Poland
13. Croatia
14. Cyprus
15. Hungary
16. Slovenia
17. The Netherlands
18. Slovakia
19. Latvia
- Finland and Croatia made it to the final thanks to the jury.
- Macedonia and Serbia would have been through otherwise.
- Poor Macedonia being kicked out by the jury for the second year running in favour for a Nordic country.
- Czech Republic came last with nil points in semi 1. Latvia got 7p but was still last in semi 2.
- Fan-favourite Switzerland weren't even close. Shame!
- I feel sorry for Ireland as it was a close call for them.
ESC 2009 Final Result
1. Norway
2. Iceland
3. Azerbaijan
4. Turkey
5. UK
6. Estonia
7. Greece
8. France
9. Bosnia-Herzegovina
10. Armenia
11. Russia
12. Ukraine
13. Denmark
14. Moldova
15. Portugal
16. Israel
17. Albania
18. Croatia
19. Romania
20. Germany
21. Sweden
22. Malta
23. Lithuania
24. Spain
25. Finland
Congratulations to Norway! Although it wasn't my personal favourite (heck, it wasn't even in my top 10) I am very happy for Norway and I will immensly enjoy Oslo for a week in the middle of May next year. YES, I am returning to euroland in 2010 for sure!
I predicted 9/10 countries that came top 10 (only missed Estonia) but as I suspected the order was a bit different. Only had 3 countries on the exact right number (Nor, Aze, Gre).
More on the songs and the result later.
2. Iceland
3. Azerbaijan
4. Turkey
5. UK
6. Estonia
7. Greece
8. France
9. Bosnia-Herzegovina
10. Armenia
11. Russia
12. Ukraine
13. Denmark
14. Moldova
15. Portugal
16. Israel
17. Albania
18. Croatia
19. Romania
20. Germany
21. Sweden
22. Malta
23. Lithuania
24. Spain
25. Finland
Congratulations to Norway! Although it wasn't my personal favourite (heck, it wasn't even in my top 10) I am very happy for Norway and I will immensly enjoy Oslo for a week in the middle of May next year. YES, I am returning to euroland in 2010 for sure!
I predicted 9/10 countries that came top 10 (only missed Estonia) but as I suspected the order was a bit different. Only had 3 countries on the exact right number (Nor, Aze, Gre).
More on the songs and the result later.
16.5.09
Final 10 Prediction
This is more difficult than ever now when it is 50% jury/50% televoting. If I am fairly sure on the countries that will make a top 10 finish then I am rather clueless as to predict the actual result, point by point. But let's make a shot at this just for fun.
Posh's PREDICTION (not my personal faves) for top 10
1. Norway
2. Bosnia
3. Azerbaijan
4. Iceland
5. Ukraine
6. Armenia
7. Greece
8. Turkey
9. France
10. UK
Posh's PREDICTION (not my personal faves) for top 10
1. Norway
2. Bosnia
3. Azerbaijan
4. Iceland
5. Ukraine
6. Armenia
7. Greece
8. Turkey
9. France
10. UK
Prediction time
Lituania: bottom
Israel: middle/bottom
France: 8-12
Sweden: 10-15
Croatia: bottom
Portugal: middle/bottom
Iceland: top 10
Greece: top 10
Armenia: top 10
Russia: middle
Azerbaijan: top 10
Bosnia: top 10
Moldova: middle
Malta: middle/bottom
Estonia: middle
Denmark: bottom
Germany: middle
Turkey: 7-13
Albania: middle/bottom
Norway: top 10
Ukraine: top 10
Romania: bottom
UK: 6-13
Finland: middle
Spain: middle
A more specific prediction for top 10 in a little while...
Israel: middle/bottom
France: 8-12
Sweden: 10-15
Croatia: bottom
Portugal: middle/bottom
Iceland: top 10
Greece: top 10
Armenia: top 10
Russia: middle
Azerbaijan: top 10
Bosnia: top 10
Moldova: middle
Malta: middle/bottom
Estonia: middle
Denmark: bottom
Germany: middle
Turkey: 7-13
Albania: middle/bottom
Norway: top 10
Ukraine: top 10
Romania: bottom
UK: 6-13
Finland: middle
Spain: middle
A more specific prediction for top 10 in a little while...
May I have your votes please...
Good evening Europe! Thank you for a fantastic show and let me tell you Alsou, you look absolutely stunning tonight. It's been a tough decision but the jury has reached a verdict... This is the result from the Posh of Eurovision jury.
1 point goes to Finland.
2p Greece
3p Albania
4p La Malena, La Voix, La Suède
5p Armenia
6p Iceland
7p Always on my mind Azerbaijan
8p Estonia
10p Bosnia-Herzegovina
and finally....
12 points to.....
La France!!!!!
1 point goes to Finland.
2p Greece
3p Albania
4p La Malena, La Voix, La Suède
5p Armenia
6p Iceland
7p Always on my mind Azerbaijan
8p Estonia
10p Bosnia-Herzegovina
and finally....
12 points to.....
La France!!!!!
Posh on Spain
Soraya - La Noche Es Para Mí 3/5
Originally sent in to the Greek final last year. Energetic performance that feels a bit “Dime”-esque, but is only a cardboard copy of that great song from 6 (!) years ago. Soraya looks like a mix between Laura Voutilainen and the blonde one from Steps. Perform last of all countries (25) which could mean a few extra points in the bag but no victory. The Big 4 are stepping up the game this year. I think it will pay off and hopefully none of them will be in the bottom for once.
Originally sent in to the Greek final last year. Energetic performance that feels a bit “Dime”-esque, but is only a cardboard copy of that great song from 6 (!) years ago. Soraya looks like a mix between Laura Voutilainen and the blonde one from Steps. Perform last of all countries (25) which could mean a few extra points in the bag but no victory. The Big 4 are stepping up the game this year. I think it will pay off and hopefully none of them will be in the bottom for once.
Posh on UK
Jade Ewen – My Time 4/5
A classical Eurovision-ballad penned by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Diane Warren. But the song would be nothing without Jade who is such a good soloist – it gets even more obvious with that draw next to Ukraine, Romania and Finland. All is not forgiven, Ms Warren, for the dodgy lyrics but I’ll see through my fingers this once. Welcome back in the game UK! Long time no see!
A classical Eurovision-ballad penned by Andrew Lloyd Webber and Diane Warren. But the song would be nothing without Jade who is such a good soloist – it gets even more obvious with that draw next to Ukraine, Romania and Finland. All is not forgiven, Ms Warren, for the dodgy lyrics but I’ll see through my fingers this once. Welcome back in the game UK! Long time no see!
Posh on Germany
Alex swings! Oscar sings! - Miss Kiss Kiss Bang 2½/5
The setting is nice but too much is going on at the same time. I’m looking forward to seeing Dita von Teese riding that electric kiss-sofa in the end though. Personally I preferred Roger Cicero in 2007 who also sang swing but I guess this will end up higher, pretty much thanks to burlesque-Dita.
The setting is nice but too much is going on at the same time. I’m looking forward to seeing Dita von Teese riding that electric kiss-sofa in the end though. Personally I preferred Roger Cicero in 2007 who also sang swing but I guess this will end up higher, pretty much thanks to burlesque-Dita.
Posh on Russia
Anastasia Prihodko – Mamo 1½/5
LED screens of a suffering Anastasia who ages into an old woman while the uninspiring songstress is screaming her heart out live on stage. A very dull song designed not to let Russia win again. We’re looking at Mother Russia’s worst result in many, many years here. Not even the neighbours can save this one.
LED screens of a suffering Anastasia who ages into an old woman while the uninspiring songstress is screaming her heart out live on stage. A very dull song designed not to let Russia win again. We’re looking at Mother Russia’s worst result in many, many years here. Not even the neighbours can save this one.
Posh on France
Patricia Kaas – S'il Fallait Le Faire 5/5
Haunting, classy traditional French chanson worthy a star like Patricia Kaas. Goosebumps alert! Intense. Vulnerable. Melancholic. It’s all the things I love in a song and together with a flawless performance sung by an extraordinary voice the French entry goes straight to my heart. You don’t even have to guess where my vote will go tonight. Nice touch with the song title in different languages on the LEDs too. Could be a jury favourite (well it should) but will televoters remember it with such an early starting position? Sadly no, plus the fact that it is not instant enough after just one listening. Anyway, I’m in love and will play this track for years.
Haunting, classy traditional French chanson worthy a star like Patricia Kaas. Goosebumps alert! Intense. Vulnerable. Melancholic. It’s all the things I love in a song and together with a flawless performance sung by an extraordinary voice the French entry goes straight to my heart. You don’t even have to guess where my vote will go tonight. Nice touch with the song title in different languages on the LEDs too. Could be a jury favourite (well it should) but will televoters remember it with such an early starting position? Sadly no, plus the fact that it is not instant enough after just one listening. Anyway, I’m in love and will play this track for years.
Eurovision 2009 - complete line up
1. Lithuania - Sasha Son - Love
2. Israel - Noa & Mira Awad - There must be another way
3. France - Patricia Kaas - S'il fallait le faire
4. Sweden - Malena Ernman - La Voix
5. Croatia - Igor Cukrov - Lijepa Tena
6. Portugal - Flor-De-Lis - Todas as Ruas do Amor
7. Iceland - Jóhanna Guðrún Jónsdóttir - Is it true
8. Greece - Sakis Rouvas - This is our night
9. Armenia - Inga & Anush Arshakyans - Nor Par (Jan Jan)
10. Russia - Anastasiya Prikhodko - Mama
11. Azerbaijan - Arash & Aysel - Always
12. Bosnia Herzegovina - Regina - Bistra Voda
13. Moldova - Nelly Ciobanu - Hora din Moldova
14. Malta - Chiara - What if we
15. Estonia - Urban Symphony - Rändajad
16. Denmark - Brinck - Believe Again
17. Germany - Alex C. feat. Oscar Loya - Miss Kiss Kiss Bang
18. Turkey - Hadise - Düm Tek Tek
19. Albania - Kejsi Tola - Carry Mee In Your Dreams
20. Norway - Alexander Rybak - Fairytale
21. Ukraine - Svetlana Loboda - Be my Valentine
22. Romania - Elena Gheorghe - The Balkan Girls
23. UK - Jade - My Time
24. Finland - Waldo's People - Lose Control
25. Spain - Soraya - La noche es para mi
YouTube clips from the semi finals and preview videos for France, Germany, UK, Spain and Russia.
Semi 2 result
I will have a word with the Swedish government about ditching Easter holiday in favour for a Eurovision holiday. I can't cope with working full time AND follow Eurovision at the same time. I am so tired. More than during a regular ESC-week on location, but without all the fun parties and people.
I didn't even have time to publish my predictions for the second semi, but I did put them on Facebook so there is proof of the countries I picked before the show. My prediction for the 10 envelopes were: Estonia, Ukraine, Albania, Moldova, Greece, Azerbaijan, Denmark, Norway, Croatia and Ireland. Adding "or possibly Lithuania on jury vote" instead of Ireland. So 9/10 or a shining 10/10 depending on how strict you are... I have never been THIS successful in my predictions in previous years. There are usually a few surprises.
The only surprise in the 2nd semi was the amount of bad singing. Gosh, it was painful at times. But I'm pleased that the Dutch fell out on their ears. Serves them right! Albania was the nice surprise. Kejsi was great despite the weird stage act. The 7 of us who watched the show together had a voting procedure of our own which was won by Albania.
Posh voted: Denmark 1p, Slovenia 2p, Ireland 3p, Ukraine 4p, Norway 5p, Moldova 6p, Greece 7p, Albania 8p, Azerbaijan 10p and Estonia 12 points.
Winners in semi 2:
Croatia
Norway
Denmark
Azerbaijan
Greece
Lithuania
Moldova
Albania
Ukraine
Estonia
I didn't even have time to publish my predictions for the second semi, but I did put them on Facebook so there is proof of the countries I picked before the show. My prediction for the 10 envelopes were: Estonia, Ukraine, Albania, Moldova, Greece, Azerbaijan, Denmark, Norway, Croatia and Ireland. Adding "or possibly Lithuania on jury vote" instead of Ireland. So 9/10 or a shining 10/10 depending on how strict you are... I have never been THIS successful in my predictions in previous years. There are usually a few surprises.
The only surprise in the 2nd semi was the amount of bad singing. Gosh, it was painful at times. But I'm pleased that the Dutch fell out on their ears. Serves them right! Albania was the nice surprise. Kejsi was great despite the weird stage act. The 7 of us who watched the show together had a voting procedure of our own which was won by Albania.
Posh voted: Denmark 1p, Slovenia 2p, Ireland 3p, Ukraine 4p, Norway 5p, Moldova 6p, Greece 7p, Albania 8p, Azerbaijan 10p and Estonia 12 points.
Winners in semi 2:
Croatia
Norway
Denmark
Azerbaijan
Greece
Lithuania
Moldova
Albania
Ukraine
Estonia
14.5.09
Posh on The Netherlands
De Toppers – Shine 0/5
Brace yourself, here it comes: Cheesy, awful peace-crap by three old queens in glowing suits. The most embarrassing 3 minutes of the year (including Bulgaria). I get physically ill from this. Could possibly have kind of worked 15 years ago but in this day and age songs like this one only give Eurovision a bad reputation. The bloody shining palms weren’t even your own idea – it’s all a theft from Slovenia 07. Eat cheese and die you dancing morons and give me my 3 minutes back dank je wel! Was that blunt enough?
Brace yourself, here it comes: Cheesy, awful peace-crap by three old queens in glowing suits. The most embarrassing 3 minutes of the year (including Bulgaria). I get physically ill from this. Could possibly have kind of worked 15 years ago but in this day and age songs like this one only give Eurovision a bad reputation. The bloody shining palms weren’t even your own idea – it’s all a theft from Slovenia 07. Eat cheese and die you dancing morons and give me my 3 minutes back dank je wel! Was that blunt enough?
Posh on Estonia
Urban Symphony – Rändajad 5/5
Simplicity. Yes, less is more. Fantastic voice too. One of my personal favourites of all songs in Moscow. Like an Enya song for the year 2009 and still very Estonian. What a turnaround from last year’s vomitizer. See you on Saturday (finally) my adoptive country!
Simplicity. Yes, less is more. Fantastic voice too. One of my personal favourites of all songs in Moscow. Like an Enya song for the year 2009 and still very Estonian. What a turnaround from last year’s vomitizer. See you on Saturday (finally) my adoptive country!
Posh on Ukraine
Svetlana Loboda - Be My Valentine 2½/5
Absolutely hated the song when it won in Ukraine but this country has an ability to always improve their entries afterwards and on top of that put on a spectacular show on stage in Eurovision. Makes it easy to just look and be wooed and not listen enough. The song is still nothing special and the singer is very average but with the whole package it will sure enough end up high in the final.
Absolutely hated the song when it won in Ukraine but this country has an ability to always improve their entries afterwards and on top of that put on a spectacular show on stage in Eurovision. Makes it easy to just look and be wooed and not listen enough. The song is still nothing special and the singer is very average but with the whole package it will sure enough end up high in the final.
Posh on Albania
Kejsi Tola - Carry Me In Your Dreams 3/5
Another grower for me. Strong voice and a catchy tune. We’ve heard it many times before but it’s extra charming when it comes from Albania for some reason. A definite qualifier only based on sound. The visual on the other hand is a completely different story that could harm their chances. Listen to this: Two dancing dwarfs and a turquoise Spiderman. Eh?
Another grower for me. Strong voice and a catchy tune. We’ve heard it many times before but it’s extra charming when it comes from Albania for some reason. A definite qualifier only based on sound. The visual on the other hand is a completely different story that could harm their chances. Listen to this: Two dancing dwarfs and a turquoise Spiderman. Eh?
Posh on Moldova
Nelly Ciobanu - Hora Din Moldova 3½/5
Talk about energy on stage! This will get far! My mind instantly starts wandering back in time to “Moja stickla” (Croatia) in 2006. That went fairly well back then and now Moldova will score very well indeed with the Eastern countries while West won’t get it at all. As usual.
Talk about energy on stage! This will get far! My mind instantly starts wandering back in time to “Moja stickla” (Croatia) in 2006. That went fairly well back then and now Moldova will score very well indeed with the Eastern countries while West won’t get it at all. As usual.
13.5.09
Posh on Lithuania
Sasha Son – Love 2/5
Nice but boring. Good voice yes but it’s bugging me that the production feels like something every music student in the world who wants to be clever composes in order to impress his teacher. Like if chart music is beneath him. Maybe the juries will fall for it? Televoters won’t.
Nice but boring. Good voice yes but it’s bugging me that the production feels like something every music student in the world who wants to be clever composes in order to impress his teacher. Like if chart music is beneath him. Maybe the juries will fall for it? Televoters won’t.
Posh on Greece
Sakis Rouvas – This is my night 4/5
Is it just me or is Sakis starting to feel a bit too old for all that jumping and dancing? And don’t even get me started on the fact that he is showing his tummy under that short T-shirt. No matter how fit you are you do not show your tummy on television like that. End of story. When it comes to the song I’ve changed my mind a great deal since I first heard it. Much better than “Shake it” with a clever melody line in the chorus. The catwalk on stage is efficient too. Top 10 in the final for sure!
Is it just me or is Sakis starting to feel a bit too old for all that jumping and dancing? And don’t even get me started on the fact that he is showing his tummy under that short T-shirt. No matter how fit you are you do not show your tummy on television like that. End of story. When it comes to the song I’ve changed my mind a great deal since I first heard it. Much better than “Shake it” with a clever melody line in the chorus. The catwalk on stage is efficient too. Top 10 in the final for sure!
Posh on Azerbaijan
AySel & Arash – Always 5/5
Top 3 on Saturday! Will appeal to both East and West. I just hope that Arash will keep in the background and let AySel shine as she is the true star between them. Flawless voice and stunningly beautiful. Arash looks misplaced, clumsy and old enough to be her father. The song is a mix of last year’s entries from Armenia and Greece. Will be the big hit to come out of the contest this summer!
Top 3 on Saturday! Will appeal to both East and West. I just hope that Arash will keep in the background and let AySel shine as she is the true star between them. Flawless voice and stunningly beautiful. Arash looks misplaced, clumsy and old enough to be her father. The song is a mix of last year’s entries from Armenia and Greece. Will be the big hit to come out of the contest this summer!
Posh on Hungary
Zoli Adok - Dance With Me 3/5
A male wannabe-Kylie. You’re not there yet daaahlink but a nice try. The contest needs at least one gay disco stomper every year and it worked for Deen in 2004. (“In the disco” was more direct though.) Over choreographed on stage which makes Zoli sound out of breath and a bit all over the place. Shame.
A male wannabe-Kylie. You’re not there yet daaahlink but a nice try. The contest needs at least one gay disco stomper every year and it worked for Deen in 2004. (“In the disco” was more direct though.) Over choreographed on stage which makes Zoli sound out of breath and a bit all over the place. Shame.
Posh on Slovenia
Quartissimo - Love Symphony 4/5
Symphonic Bond-theme, sadly with a screeching singer, but I really like the melody and the effort of trying something different. If the singer had had a fuller voice in the style of good old Shirley Bassey then this would have been tiptop. Looks like I am the only one liking the symphony so it may well bomb.
Symphonic Bond-theme, sadly with a screeching singer, but I really like the melody and the effort of trying something different. If the singer had had a fuller voice in the style of good old Shirley Bassey then this would have been tiptop. Looks like I am the only one liking the symphony so it may well bomb.
Posh on Denmark
Brinck – Believe Again 2½/5
How far apart can two legs be on a stage? Come on. It looks weird. In this weak semi Denmark will qualify but only because the competition is so shite. The song is probably ok but I grew out of this style in 2001 at the same time as Ronan Keating became boring. He is of course the composer here and personally I feel sickened by Brinck’s Ronan-complex.
How far apart can two legs be on a stage? Come on. It looks weird. In this weak semi Denmark will qualify but only because the competition is so shite. The song is probably ok but I grew out of this style in 2001 at the same time as Ronan Keating became boring. He is of course the composer here and personally I feel sickened by Brinck’s Ronan-complex.
Posh on Slovakia
Kamil Mikulčík & Nela Pocisková - Leť tmou 2/5
A dramatic duet that would benefit from other singers - with more personalities and passion - and possibly by using English instead. The dramatic feeling appeals to me but the moment the song is over I forget its whole existence. Not a terribly good sign…
A dramatic duet that would benefit from other singers - with more personalities and passion - and possibly by using English instead. The dramatic feeling appeals to me but the moment the song is over I forget its whole existence. Not a terribly good sign…
Posh on Cyprus
Christina Metaxa – Firefly 2/5
The setting on stage looks nice, the song in itself is not too bad and with a better singer it would be much higher on the scoreboard. Such a shame then that Christina's voice is, well, bad - specially when she starts wailing in the end. Poor thing! Nice frock though...
The setting on stage looks nice, the song in itself is not too bad and with a better singer it would be much higher on the scoreboard. Such a shame then that Christina's voice is, well, bad - specially when she starts wailing in the end. Poor thing! Nice frock though...
Posh on Norway
Alexander Rybak – Fairytale 3/5
I know this entry should push all my buttons but it only leaves me cold. It will probably win the whole thing anyway but I would prefer to see the big fan-favourite come in 2nd. The lyrics are nothing special, the melody is too old fashioned, the LEDs are totally over the top with Christmas scenery full of fireworks and the performance seems calculating to appeal to the Eastern countries. The boy isn’t even cute. So what do people see that I am missing? Though I’m prepared to be disappointed in the same way as in 2000 when Denmark won and I was clueless. Norway was my favourite last year. Now THAT was quality!
I know this entry should push all my buttons but it only leaves me cold. It will probably win the whole thing anyway but I would prefer to see the big fan-favourite come in 2nd. The lyrics are nothing special, the melody is too old fashioned, the LEDs are totally over the top with Christmas scenery full of fireworks and the performance seems calculating to appeal to the Eastern countries. The boy isn’t even cute. So what do people see that I am missing? Though I’m prepared to be disappointed in the same way as in 2000 when Denmark won and I was clueless. Norway was my favourite last year. Now THAT was quality!
Posh on Poland
Lidia Kopania - I Don't Wanna Leave 1½/5
Oh my f***ing God! I had this song down as 3/5 before seeing the rehearsals since it is a good enough American sounding ballad. Nothing more or less. The draw should be an advantage too after that drivel. But. The woman is so badly tone-deaf it hurts my soul.
Oh my f***ing God! I had this song down as 3/5 before seeing the rehearsals since it is a good enough American sounding ballad. Nothing more or less. The draw should be an advantage too after that drivel. But. The woman is so badly tone-deaf it hurts my soul.
Posh on Serbia
Marko Kon & Milaan – Cipela 1½/5
Again I like the LEDs. But the rest? Eh…no. The only joke song in this semi – unless De Toppers should fall under the same category?! Big hair and booty shaking by a male is indeed thinking outside the box but it doesn’t turn anybody on. I hope.
Again I like the LEDs. But the rest? Eh…no. The only joke song in this semi – unless De Toppers should fall under the same category?! Big hair and booty shaking by a male is indeed thinking outside the box but it doesn’t turn anybody on. I hope.
Posh on Latvia
Intars Busulis – Probka 1/5
The best thing about this song (and I use the word “song” loosely here) is the picture of a rotating signpost on the LED screens. That’s about as nice as I can be to Latvia. The absolute worst part is that there is no song to be found in this entry plus the strangling attempt to falsetto at one point.
The best thing about this song (and I use the word “song” loosely here) is the picture of a rotating signpost on the LED screens. That’s about as nice as I can be to Latvia. The absolute worst part is that there is no song to be found in this entry plus the strangling attempt to falsetto at one point.
Posh on Ireland
Sinead Mulvey & Black Daisy - Et Cetera 3/5
It feels fresh and welcomed after the opening from Croatia but there’s no spark in Sinead’s eyes (yet). Okay rock/pop sound by a girlband similar to Vanilla Ninja (Swi05) only they were better. No matter what I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the songwriters Jonas and Christina who happens to be my friends.
It feels fresh and welcomed after the opening from Croatia but there’s no spark in Sinead’s eyes (yet). Okay rock/pop sound by a girlband similar to Vanilla Ninja (Swi05) only they were better. No matter what I’m keeping my fingers crossed for the songwriters Jonas and Christina who happens to be my friends.
Posh on Croatia
Igor Cukrov feat. Andrea - Lijepa Tena 1½/5
What can I say; I strongly dislike the guy’s vibrato. I dislike it so much that I can’t even focus on the big Balkan feelings that I normally quite like. Nah, it all comes down to dullness in a pretty nice package on stage. Next!
What can I say; I strongly dislike the guy’s vibrato. I dislike it so much that I can’t even focus on the big Balkan feelings that I normally quite like. Nah, it all comes down to dullness in a pretty nice package on stage. Next!
Final draw
During the press conference late last night the 10 countries from semi 1 drew their new starting positions for the final. This is the line-up so far:
1. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
2. Israel
3. France
4. Sweden
5. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
6. Portugal
7. Iceland
8. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
9. Armenia
10. Russia
11. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
12. Bosnia and Herzegovina
13. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
14. Malta
15. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
16. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
17. Germany
18. Turkey
19. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
20. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
21. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
22. Romania
23. United Kingdom
24. Finland
25. Spain
Bad luck for Sweden but it bodes well for Finland at least.
1. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
2. Israel
3. France
4. Sweden
5. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
6. Portugal
7. Iceland
8. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
9. Armenia
10. Russia
11. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
12. Bosnia and Herzegovina
13. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
14. Malta
15. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
16. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
17. Germany
18. Turkey
19. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
20. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
21. Participant of the Second Semi-Final
22. Romania
23. United Kingdom
24. Finland
25. Spain
Bad luck for Sweden but it bodes well for Finland at least.
12.5.09
Semi 1 result
Yay! Sweden got through! Lucky thing we were in the 2nd envelope as my poor nerves would have given up if it had been the last one. I wouldn't be surprised though if Sweden got saved by the jury yet again... After the final on Saturday we'll know the complete score from each country.
Iceland was very, very good tonight! Gave up hope on Switzerland even though I voted for it. Feared it would get lost and I was right. Bosnia must have won the semi. Chiara was boring and I didn't even have her in my personal top 10 tonight. Elena from Romania sang really well and lifted the song. Bulgaria was awful as always. Almost as bad as the presenters. Who was in charge of the camera and lightning crew? Felt like they were more interested in showing off the big stage than focusing on the singers and the mood of the songs. During some of the performances there were not enough light on stage either. Maybe they put everything on Malena...
I will miss Switzerland in the final but am happy to have picked 9 out of 10 entries yesterday. Tonight when we all made our own top 10 after seeing the show my votes were as follows. Macedonia 1p, Romania 2p, Portugal 3 points, Turkey 4p, Armenia 5p, Sweden 6p, Finland 7p, Iceland 8p, Switzerland 10p, Bosnia 12p.
The actual 10 countries were
Sweden
Armenia
Turkey
Israel
Iceland
Romania
Finland
Portugal
Malta
Bosnia
Bring on the 2nd semi!!!
Iceland was very, very good tonight! Gave up hope on Switzerland even though I voted for it. Feared it would get lost and I was right. Bosnia must have won the semi. Chiara was boring and I didn't even have her in my personal top 10 tonight. Elena from Romania sang really well and lifted the song. Bulgaria was awful as always. Almost as bad as the presenters. Who was in charge of the camera and lightning crew? Felt like they were more interested in showing off the big stage than focusing on the singers and the mood of the songs. During some of the performances there were not enough light on stage either. Maybe they put everything on Malena...
I will miss Switzerland in the final but am happy to have picked 9 out of 10 entries yesterday. Tonight when we all made our own top 10 after seeing the show my votes were as follows. Macedonia 1p, Romania 2p, Portugal 3 points, Turkey 4p, Armenia 5p, Sweden 6p, Finland 7p, Iceland 8p, Switzerland 10p, Bosnia 12p.
The actual 10 countries were
Sweden
Armenia
Turkey
Israel
Iceland
Romania
Finland
Portugal
Malta
Bosnia
Bring on the 2nd semi!!!
11.5.09
My Dream 10 Envelopes - Semi 1
I will save my predictions for what 10 countries we'll see on display in envelopes from the 1st semi until I've seen and heard them on TV tomorrow. But if I were to choose these are the ones going through to the final...
My Dream 10 Envelopes
1. Bosnia-Herzegovina
2. Switzerland
3. Sweden
4. Finland
5. Armenia
6. Iceland
7. Turkey
8. Malta
9. Portugal
10 Romania or Belgium
I'm sure on Bos, Tur, Mal, Arm. Almost sure on Fin, Ice, Por. Unsure but hopeful on Swe. Fear that Swi will be out and Belarus in.
It will be so exciting tomorrow!!!
My Dream 10 Envelopes
1. Bosnia-Herzegovina
2. Switzerland
3. Sweden
4. Finland
5. Armenia
6. Iceland
7. Turkey
8. Malta
9. Portugal
10 Romania or Belgium
I'm sure on Bos, Tur, Mal, Arm. Almost sure on Fin, Ice, Por. Unsure but hopeful on Swe. Fear that Swi will be out and Belarus in.
It will be so exciting tomorrow!!!
Posh on Bosnia-Herzegovina
Regina – Bistra voda 5/5
I love everything about this song. Specially the drums. And the voice. And the melody. And… I could go on and on really. Top marks from me and probably televoters across Europe too. Will be surprised if this is not the semi final winner. Good chance of winning the whole thing on Saturday as well. Fingers crossed!
I love everything about this song. Specially the drums. And the voice. And the melody. And… I could go on and on really. Top marks from me and probably televoters across Europe too. Will be surprised if this is not the semi final winner. Good chance of winning the whole thing on Saturday as well. Fingers crossed!
Posh on Malta
Chiara – What if we 3/5
I was never a fan of “Angel” or “The one that I love” so for me this is Chiara’s best attempt. The voice doesn’t seem to be quite as nasal as before even if it’s still cold and sharp. No matter what she’ll sail through the semi – maybe based on her previous record in the contest (2nd and 3rd). Oh, and I understand why the Maltese changed the LEDs from the first rehearsal… Aquarium = made Chiara look like Ursula after stealing Ariel’s voice. Not a flattering sight!
I was never a fan of “Angel” or “The one that I love” so for me this is Chiara’s best attempt. The voice doesn’t seem to be quite as nasal as before even if it’s still cold and sharp. No matter what she’ll sail through the semi – maybe based on her previous record in the contest (2nd and 3rd). Oh, and I understand why the Maltese changed the LEDs from the first rehearsal… Aquarium = made Chiara look like Ursula after stealing Ariel’s voice. Not a flattering sight!
Posh on Portugal
Flor da Lis - Todas As Ruas Do Amor 3/5
What’s going on? I, Posh of Eurovision, like a song from Portugal! The song is cosy, a little corny and a tad naïve (much thanks to the LED screens). Nothing more or less. Could actually work on a Tuesday evening like this for televoters.
What’s going on? I, Posh of Eurovision, like a song from Portugal! The song is cosy, a little corny and a tad naïve (much thanks to the LED screens). Nothing more or less. Could actually work on a Tuesday evening like this for televoters.
Posh on Finland
Waldo’s People – Lose Control 4/5
I’m so happy that the Finns stepped out of their comfort zone and are treating us with something else than rock for a change. Kiitos my lovely Suomi! It sounds flatter live than on record but it’s still a good song and it stands out from the crowd. Karoliina both sings well and looks gorgeous so hopefully Finland will scrap through.
I’m so happy that the Finns stepped out of their comfort zone and are treating us with something else than rock for a change. Kiitos my lovely Suomi! It sounds flatter live than on record but it’s still a good song and it stands out from the crowd. Karoliina both sings well and looks gorgeous so hopefully Finland will scrap through.
Posh on Romania
Elena - The Balkan Girls 3/5
Another hooky chorus with a song + performance that go together and feel young and fresh. It has grown a lot since I first heard it in the Romanian final. The big question will be if Elena pulls it off live? From the two rehearsals I’ve seen on youtube she sang well in one and quite bad in the other. If she’s too nervous Romania will be out.
Another hooky chorus with a song + performance that go together and feel young and fresh. It has grown a lot since I first heard it in the Romanian final. The big question will be if Elena pulls it off live? From the two rehearsals I’ve seen on youtube she sang well in one and quite bad in the other. If she’s too nervous Romania will be out.
Posh on FYR Macedonia
Next Time - Nesto Shto Ke Ostane 2/5
Okay rock song shaped in the old Europe/Bon Jovi-school which Swedish rockers H.E.A.T also used for a mid-table placing in Melodifestivalen. The song sticks around because of the hooky chorus but absolutely nothing happens on stage. Likable but not vote-able. 9th country in or 1st to miss out on the final – as always for Macedonia…
Okay rock song shaped in the old Europe/Bon Jovi-school which Swedish rockers H.E.A.T also used for a mid-table placing in Melodifestivalen. The song sticks around because of the hooky chorus but absolutely nothing happens on stage. Likable but not vote-able. 9th country in or 1st to miss out on the final – as always for Macedonia…
Posh on Iceland
Yohanna – Is it true? 4/5
Ah, a simple, naked and effective ballad well sung by a beautiful girl without acrobats, clowns or hysterical dancers behind her on stage. Only 3 very good backing singers and a big 18th century ship on the LED screens to set the mood. How very convenient for Iceland coming right after the mishmash of bad taste from Bulgaria. Will rocket itself into the final for sure!
Ah, a simple, naked and effective ballad well sung by a beautiful girl without acrobats, clowns or hysterical dancers behind her on stage. Only 3 very good backing singers and a big 18th century ship on the LED screens to set the mood. How very convenient for Iceland coming right after the mishmash of bad taste from Bulgaria. Will rocket itself into the final for sure!
Posh on Bulgaria
Krassimir Abramov – Illusion 0/5
Chaos! Or inferno rather. Is this what they play in torture chambers? They should. My poor ears are bleeding and I’m ready to cut my wrists just to get out of this horrible nightmare of awful voices - with bad English on top of that. What were you thinking you silly, silly Bulgarians? And the stilts on stage… Why? If there’s ANY justice Krassimir will be last with 0 points. Awful!
Chaos! Or inferno rather. Is this what they play in torture chambers? They should. My poor ears are bleeding and I’m ready to cut my wrists just to get out of this horrible nightmare of awful voices - with bad English on top of that. What were you thinking you silly, silly Bulgarians? And the stilts on stage… Why? If there’s ANY justice Krassimir will be last with 0 points. Awful!
Posh on Israel
Noa & Mira Awad - There Must Be Another Way 2½/5
Good voices and I like the Arabic bits. Overall are the verses much stronger than the chorus which then gives a dull impression of the song and the performance on stage is just plain and a lot of walking around from side to side and back and forth. Shame as it was a good idea on paper for once pulling the peace-card when sung in both Hebrew and Arabic.
Good voices and I like the Arabic bits. Overall are the verses much stronger than the chorus which then gives a dull impression of the song and the performance on stage is just plain and a lot of walking around from side to side and back and forth. Shame as it was a good idea on paper for once pulling the peace-card when sung in both Hebrew and Arabic.
Posh on Turkey
Hadise - Dum Tek Tek 3½/5
Professional. Recognisable. Repetitive. Average. Think Elena Paparizou/Sertab/Shakira. Definitely through to the final and a top 10 placing there but not a winner. It's not original enough and nothing new whatsoever. Hadise should do more singing and less swaying the hips to get a higher mark from me.
Professional. Recognisable. Repetitive. Average. Think Elena Paparizou/Sertab/Shakira. Definitely through to the final and a top 10 placing there but not a winner. It's not original enough and nothing new whatsoever. Hadise should do more singing and less swaying the hips to get a higher mark from me.
Posh on Switzerland
Lovebugs - The Highest Heights 5/5
A real rockband with a career in parts of Europe. What a facelift from previous years Switzerland. One of my favourites but I fear they may not even qualify. I was dead cert on Anonymous (Andorra07) and look what happened there. Is this too cool for Eurovision? The LEDs are very slick showing us skylines, Alps and space. I’ll be seriously depressed when we’ll find Belarus in one envelope and no Swiss rock. Please vote!
A real rockband with a career in parts of Europe. What a facelift from previous years Switzerland. One of my favourites but I fear they may not even qualify. I was dead cert on Anonymous (Andorra07) and look what happened there. Is this too cool for Eurovision? The LEDs are very slick showing us skylines, Alps and space. I’ll be seriously depressed when we’ll find Belarus in one envelope and no Swiss rock. Please vote!
Posh on Andorra
Susanne Georgi - La Teva Decisio 2/5
A very traditional performance of a very ordinary pop song. There’s nothing new or exciting in this number whatsoever which leaves me bored halfway through. Danish Susanne (I still think she looks too old for the song) is strutting up and down the stage smiling away but the smile will turn into tears before the evening ends. If not even Anonymous (2007) qualified then this dullness is indeed chanceless.
A very traditional performance of a very ordinary pop song. There’s nothing new or exciting in this number whatsoever which leaves me bored halfway through. Danish Susanne (I still think she looks too old for the song) is strutting up and down the stage smiling away but the smile will turn into tears before the evening ends. If not even Anonymous (2007) qualified then this dullness is indeed chanceless.
Posh on Armenia
Inga & Anush – Nor Par (Jan Jan) 4/5
Where’s the Nor-Par-dance? Where is it? I demand it back! The first rehearsal was disappointing, the sisters didn’t show any sign of energy but the second one when they wore their oriental costumes they were back on the right track again. Thank God, as I have a weak spot for this weird entry. Armenia always does well and with the recent success of Bollywood music following “Slumdog Millionaire” this is definitely a contender for top 10 come Saturday.
Where’s the Nor-Par-dance? Where is it? I demand it back! The first rehearsal was disappointing, the sisters didn’t show any sign of energy but the second one when they wore their oriental costumes they were back on the right track again. Thank God, as I have a weak spot for this weird entry. Armenia always does well and with the recent success of Bollywood music following “Slumdog Millionaire” this is definitely a contender for top 10 come Saturday.
10.5.09
Posh on Sweden
Malena Ernman – La Voix 4/5
I’m still glad the Swedes dared to send a “hit or miss”-entry for once and hopefully it will pay off but I’m not convinced. Malena will struggle in the semi with the early starting position but if the Slovene opera in 2007 got through it would be a disgrace if Sweden didn’t – with a much better song and performance. The dress is now white while the backing singers are now females with masks. White, green and black LEDs similar to the MF-lightning. Felt something in the act lacking during rehearsals but as the pro she is Malena will connect once Europe is watching. Fingers crossed!
I’m still glad the Swedes dared to send a “hit or miss”-entry for once and hopefully it will pay off but I’m not convinced. Malena will struggle in the semi with the early starting position but if the Slovene opera in 2007 got through it would be a disgrace if Sweden didn’t – with a much better song and performance. The dress is now white while the backing singers are now females with masks. White, green and black LEDs similar to the MF-lightning. Felt something in the act lacking during rehearsals but as the pro she is Malena will connect once Europe is watching. Fingers crossed!
Posh on Belarus
Petr Elfimov - Eyes That Never Lie 2½/5
Oh, Petr got himself a new hairstyle and not a day too late. Strong vocals but horrid English. Simple prop on stage featuring a woman behind a blowing sheet. The song grows on you but the first time I heard it my comments were not kind at all. If it were the only rock entry in the semi I’d say Belarus would qualify but with Switzerland, Macedonia and to a degree Bosnia doing the same style with better songs it’s hopefully bye, bye to the man with the golden hair.
Oh, Petr got himself a new hairstyle and not a day too late. Strong vocals but horrid English. Simple prop on stage featuring a woman behind a blowing sheet. The song grows on you but the first time I heard it my comments were not kind at all. If it were the only rock entry in the semi I’d say Belarus would qualify but with Switzerland, Macedonia and to a degree Bosnia doing the same style with better songs it’s hopefully bye, bye to the man with the golden hair.
Posh on Belgium
Copycat – Copycat 3/5
Elvis has left the building. Instead we’ll get his copycat (from Elvis’ less flattering period) doing a Vegas show with a golden jacket, greasy hair and pretty much everything you’d expect. I just wish he’d articulate more so people would hear the pretty funny lyrics.
Elvis has left the building. Instead we’ll get his copycat (from Elvis’ less flattering period) doing a Vegas show with a golden jacket, greasy hair and pretty much everything you’d expect. I just wish he’d articulate more so people would hear the pretty funny lyrics.
Posh on Czech Republic
Gipsy.cz - Aven Romale 1/5
I like the comics on the LED screens but the song is still bad and another never ending story. It won’t come last though as some people will giggle at his superhero outfit and give a few points for comical value. But there is no way in hell this will qualify.
I like the comics on the LED screens but the song is still bad and another never ending story. It won’t come last though as some people will giggle at his superhero outfit and give a few points for comical value. But there is no way in hell this will qualify.
Posh on Montenegro
Andrea Demirovic - Just Get Out Of My Life 2/5
Very effective chorus but it’s just annoying when it gets stuck in your head. Andrea is not the most inspirational singer either and it feels like the song never ends. She’ll be alone on stage with a male dancer in white doing silly Saturday Night Fever moves. Penned by Ralph Siegel. Prepare for failure!
Very effective chorus but it’s just annoying when it gets stuck in your head. Andrea is not the most inspirational singer either and it feels like the song never ends. She’ll be alone on stage with a male dancer in white doing silly Saturday Night Fever moves. Penned by Ralph Siegel. Prepare for failure!
Back in business at last
A week from now we'll know who won Eurovision 2009. So it's about bloody time I kick some life back into Posh (& Becks) of Eurovision. As from tomorrow I will start reviewing all songs based on youtube clips from rehearsals in Moscow. Unfortunately I'm not there to witness it all live but next year might see the return of Posh in eurovisionland where she belongs.
Be sure to check back tomorrow, ok!
Be sure to check back tomorrow, ok!
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