It’s set to dazzle viewers with its powerful combination of musical prowess and cultural variety. This year’s event, with the motto “United by Music,” will be held in Basel, Switzerland again on Saturday, May 17. Our fans are celebrating as we announce this, what a piece of history! They’re proving it hands down long before the opening ceremony even amid the swirling controversy and intense national pride.
Austria’s representative, JJ, is a 23-year-old countertenor with Austrian-Filipino roots. He’s been winning them with his gut-wrenching popera anthem to unrequited love. His song’s emotional depth could resonate with voters, potentially paving the way for him to follow in the footsteps of Conchita Wurst, who brought home Austria’s first win in 2014.
JJ’s performance will be under heavy scrutiny, particularly as he stacks up against a really interesting group of talent from all over Europe. Israel’s Yuval Raphael has already made it to their grand final. He was able to do this in the face of a mountain of criticism and calls for a boycott as a result of the current geopolitical climate.
Ukraine’s entry, “Bird of Pray,” performed by the trio Ziferblat—comprised of Daniil Leshchynskyi, Valentyn Leshchynskyi, and Fedir Khodakov—reflects the nation’s recent struggles and resilience. The collective has taken the world by storm with stirring lyrics that reflect their lived experiences in the face of war.
“It’s about the problems we go through, the tragedy of the last three years,” said Valentyn Leshchynskyi, shedding light on the personal impact of war on their music.
Ziferblat’s lead vocalist has expressed a poignant plea within their song:
“Fly. Bird. I’m begging you. Begging you, please just live.”
Ukraine’s winning streak continues! After winning it all last year and finishing sixth in 2023, the country hopes to continue its success on the heels of a third-place effort in 2022. This legacy indeed creates immense pressure but more importantly, inspiration for Ziferblat as they approach the stage in Basel.
In another intriguing entry, Sweden is represented by KAJ, a Finnish comedy music group that has crafted a lighthearted song titled “Wasted Love.” The song’s simple yet engaging message revolves around the cultural significance of saunas in Nordic countries—a theme that resonates deeply with local audiences.
Saunas are an integral part of Nordic culture. Finland has been hosting a sauna world championship for more than 20 years! KAJ hopes to make everyone smiling and tapping their feet to the catchy jingle with some humor and heart.
Hope to see you at the last performances – we can’t wait! Bookmakers have made JJ’s song the current favorite to win it all, with very favorable 40% odds. His soulful touch and quirky sound could take him farther than most of his competitors.
The stage to Eurovision 2025 has not been free of controversies itself. The continuing devastation of war following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine hangs heavily over the event. In retaliation, hundreds of pro-Palestinian activists occupied the streets outside the venue in Basel to protest. They protest an end to Israel’s military aggression and Israel’s removal from the competition.
One of those affected by the conflict is Khrystyna Starykova, a 19-year-old support singer for Ziferblat. She recounted her harrowing ordeal as she fled her home in Myrnohrad, in east-central Ukraine, after it was struck by Russian artillery fire.
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