Eurovision Acts to look out for in 2015

The Eurovision Song Contest 2015 begins on the 19th May in Vienna, Austria.  After a very interesting 2014, this year will hopefully be filled with as much controversy and glitter as last year, so here’s a few acts to keep your eye on!

Australia

Australia has been given a wildcard entry into the Eurovision Grand Final with SBS TV choosing Guy Sebastian as the representative. The song was written and recorded in 2 days and has received much backlash from Twitter. While this is just a gimmick to celebrate the 60th anniversary, it will be interesting to see how many points Sebastian actually score as Australia will not be allowed to host the 2016 concert.

Austria
After Conchita Wurst won last year and encouraged diversity and acceptance throughout Europe, The Makemakes have a hard act to follow.  They are also down on their luck as it is not common for a country to win twice in a row.  While The Big 5 did this in the early years,  since then there has been much more diversity in host countries and winners. Either way, I Am Yours is a nice ballad and will probably get the young vote.

Finland

Pertti Kurikan Nimipäivät was created as a band for mentally disabled adults. All five members have a form of disability but do not let this stop them from playing some hardcore punk rock. Like Conchita Wurst, the band shows a push of acceptance on the big stage.  Finland does not have much luck when it comes to Eurovision, but this is one act that shows originality and a pretty rocking bass line.

Russia

The Tolmachevy Sisters were Russia’s entry in 2014 and were booed throughout their performance. After the continuing issues in Ukraine in the past year, it is likely that Europe will again show its political side through Eurovision. Polina Gagarina is Russia’s entry this year and despite lyrics such as “praying for peace and healing”, it is unlikely to sway Europe.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom has won Eurovision 5 times but their reign ended back in 1997 and they have struggled ever since. Despite many thinking that Engelbert Humperdink would be their revival in 2013, each act has been more cringe worthy than the last. Electro Velvet’s song is very catchy, but the United Kingdom never quite hits the mark.

Grab some friends, pick an outfit, a few drinks and enjoy all the kitschy fun that is Eurovision 2015.

Eurovision 2015 will air on SBS ONE
Semi Final 1 : Friday May 22nd, 7:30pm
Semi Final 2: Saturday May 23rd, 7:30pm
Final: Sunday May 24th, 7:30pm

You can also watch it live on SBS ONE
Semi Final 1 : Wednesday May 20th, 5am
Semi Final 2: Friday May 22nd, 5am
Final: Sunday May 24th, 5am

Written by Anja Kokkonen