The Eurovision Song Contest is back in action this year, and for the first time in its history, it will be held in Basel, Switzerland. The UK’s entry for the competition is Remember Monday, a country-pop trio made up of Lauren Byrne, Holly-Anne Hull, and Charlotte Steele.
About Remember Monday
- The group formed at school in Farnborough, Hampshire.
- They have a strong musical background and have performed together since their school days.
- In addition to their work with Remember Monday, Lauren and Holly-Anne have also appeared on stage in West End shows like Phantom of the Opera and Six: The Musical.
Their song for Eurovision is titled "What The Hell Just Happened," which features harmonies and pop melodies that are sure to captivate audiences. With this performance, they hope to turn around the UK’s fortunes after two consecutive years of finishing near the bottom of the table.
Controversy Surrounding Israel’s Participation
Controversy has surrounded Israel’s participation this year due to allegations that its public broadcaster was complicit in genocide against Palestinians during recent fighting between Israelis and Hamas militants. Over 70 former Eurovision contestants signed an open letter calling for Israel to be banned from competing.
Israeli contestant Yuval Raphael acknowledged that she expected some audience members might boo her during her performance due to previous protests against Israel’s participation while it continues military operations against Hamas, which controls Gaza. The recent violence has resulted in significant casualties, including many civilians.
Theme and Competition Details
This year’s theme is "Welcome Home," which resonates deeply with Swiss singer Zoë Më, who will represent her homeland with the song "Voyage."
Competition Rules
- Eurovision songs must be original—no re-releases or covers allowed.
- Songs cannot be longer than three minutes.
- Lead vocals must be performed live without lip-syncing or autotuning.
- Performances can include up to six singers/dancers on stage.
Participating Countries
Thirty-seven countries are competing across two semi-finals before Saturday’s Grand Final. The countries represented include:
- Australia
- Austria
- Belarus
- Belgium
- Croatia
- Cyprus
- Czech Republic
- Denmark
- Estonia
- Finland
- France
- Germany
- Greece
- Hungary
- Iceland
- Ireland
- Italy
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Luxembourg
- Malta
- Montenegro
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Poland
- Portugal
- Romania
- Russia (banned)
- San Marino
- Serbia
- Slovakia
- Slovenia
- Spain
- Sweden
- Switzerland
- Turkey
- Ukraine
- United Kingdom
Special guests include Nemo (last year’s winner) and Celine Dion (who won for Switzerland in the past), along with other past winners returning as performers alongside current entrants Zoë Më and Remember Monday.
Viewing Information
For those watching online, you’ll need access through the BBC iPlayer app, mobile web, desktop computer, tablet, or smart TV. Make sure you’ve got everything set up and ready to enjoy the show!
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