Live Stream: Grand Final (2021 Eurovision Song Contest)
May 22, 2021 8:22 AM - Subscribe

The show must go on. The 2021 artists have made it through two intense semifinals. Two artists have been forced to use pre-recorded performances during the competition because of the COVID-19 situation. There’s been the usual Eurovision drama to contend with as well. We’ve had a heck of a ride this year, and now it’s come to this – the Grand Final!

HOW TO WATCH LIVE:

Viewers outside of Australia, Greece, Latvia, Lithuania, Ukraine, United States and the United Kingdom can watch via the official livestream for the Grand Final from the Eurovision YouTube Channel.

For those of us unlucky enough to be geoblocked, and without an official national broadcaster, you've got several options available to you: this thread on the Eurovision subreddit goes into further details, but the Swedish National Broadcaster (SVT)’s official stream is always a fairly reliable option. American viewers can finally watch it live via Peacock, NBC’s online streaming channel (free account required).

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RUNNING ORDER:
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1. Cyprus / Elena Tsagrinou - El Diablo
2. Albania / Anxhela Peristeri - Karma
3. Israel / Eden Alene - Set Me Free
4. Belgium / Hooverphonic - The Wrong Place
5. Russia / Manizha - Russian Woman
6. Malta / Destiny - Je Me Casse
7. Portugal / The Black Mamba - Love Is On My Side
8. Serbia / Hurricane - Loco Loco
9. United Kingdom / James Newman - Embers
10. Greece / Stefania - Last Dance
11. Switzerland / Gjon's Tears - Tout l'Univers
12. Iceland / Da∂i Freyr og Gagnamagni∂ - 10 Years
13. Spain / Blas Cantó - Voy A Querdarme
14. Moldova / Natalia Gordienko - SUGAR
15. Germany / Jendrik - I Don't Feel Hate
16. Finland / Blind Channel - Dark Side
17. Bulgaria / Victoria - Growing Up is Getting Old
18. Lithuania / The Roop - Discoteque
19. Ukraine / Go_A - Shum
20. France / Barbara Pravi - Voilà
21. Azerbaijan / Efendi - Mata Hari
22. Norway / TIX - Fallen Angel
23. The Netherlands (Hosts) / Jeangu Macrooy - Birth of a New Age
24. Italy / Måneskin - Zitti E Buoni
25. Sweden / Tusse - Voices
26. San Marino / Senhit - Adrenalina

Official Eurovision YouTube Channel
Official Playlist of all songs in the Grand Final
Official Playlist of all songs in the 2021 contest.
posted by PearlRose (244 comments total) 4 users marked this as a favorite
 
I’m especially looking forward to this because I’ve spent the two days since the second semifinal feeling very under the weather since getting my first vaccine shot. I very much need a pick-me-up. And Eurovision is the audiovisual equivalent of a freshly made tiramisu.
posted by Kattullus at 9:28 AM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Can't wait; printing out scorecards now!

Usually we have friends and/or family over, but we aren't quite comfortable doing that this year, so cyrusdogstar and I will be by ourselves. I'd also gotten into the habit of baking something related to the host country-- in past years, I've made Ukrainian poppy seed cake and bolinhos de laranja-- but since we're not having guests over this time (and I didn't feel like baking anyway), I just picked up some Stroopwafels from the supermarket.
posted by May Kasahara at 9:56 AM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I won't be joining the chatting today but I will be glued to the screen for the show. Rooting for Portugal but will be happy with a top 10 finish.
posted by JanetLand at 10:51 AM on May 22, 2021


Livestream? Ready.
Snacks? Check.
Drinks, boozy and not boozy? Check.
Tums? At the ready.

Let's do this. I look forward to the spectacle. May all our favorites place well, and may no one interrupt any performances this year.
posted by PearlRose at 11:57 AM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Here we go!
posted by May Kasahara at 12:00 PM on May 22, 2021


what's the bet? Music or spectacle?
posted by Dumsnill at 12:02 PM on May 22, 2021


Mrs. Example and I sit here fortified with Italian meats, British cheeses, Spanish olives, French and Italian wines, and Russian vodka.

BRING ON EUROVISION
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:03 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I'm set up to watch on Peacock (just to make sure I'm counted so they keep doing it), and I am sharing in a (currently empty) Zoom room for any of my friends who want to stop by and watch with me. Snacks: Check. Drinks: Check. Swedish Licorice Candy: Check. Let's do this! Go Tusse, go Portugal! [Hope you feel better soon, Kattullus!]
posted by gemmy at 12:03 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I'm getting weepy watching the friggin' intro. It has been too long.
posted by PearlRose at 12:03 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


what's the bet? Music or spectacle?

Why not both?
posted by PearlRose at 12:04 PM on May 22, 2021


Legit getting chills watching this intro. I had no idea how much I had missed Eurovision.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:06 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


Why not both? I am simple.
posted by Dumsnill at 12:06 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Aww, it felt so weird not seeing Iceland during the parade of nations.
posted by PearlRose at 12:09 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Apparently the archbishop of Cyprus condemned “El Diablo” as satanic. Which is the most interesting thing about the song, sadly.
posted by Kattullus at 12:11 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


Cyprus! She is so cute in her postcard, and then we get El Diablo. Eurovision is a land of contrasts.
posted by PearlRose at 12:12 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I'm wondering how much is involved in getting into those skin tight suits Cyprus's backup dancers are wearing.
posted by meese at 12:12 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Sparkly witch anthem from Cyprus is not my personal favorite, but it's a good opener choice. High energy but not peaking too early.
posted by the primroses were over at 12:13 PM on May 22, 2021


Disappointed Cyprus got through to the final. It'll just encourage them to deliver Fuego 4.0 or whichever next year too.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:14 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Which is the most interesting thing about the song, sadly.

I don't know. The totally out of place taco tamale reference is kind of interesting. In a weird only Eurovision lyrics way.
posted by PearlRose at 12:14 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Isn't there some Eurovision curse where the acts that go first never win? Cyprus' song isn't a winner anyway, but just putting that out there.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:14 PM on May 22, 2021


Albania is very talented. She is growing on me on this listen.
posted by gemmy at 12:16 PM on May 22, 2021


It's Act 2 that's referred to as the "death slot." No one's ever won from spot 2. Albania has been slotted into the death slot yet again this year. If I were in Albania's delegation, I'd be pissed.

But yeah, generally the middle-to-end of the order is where you want to be, as an artist that wants to win. I think those tend to stick in viewers minds more when the phones open.
posted by PearlRose at 12:17 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Albania's song is one of those that snuck up on me when I heard it live in the semi. She's a really good singer! I appreciate keeping it in her native language!
posted by PearlRose at 12:18 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Currently wondering how long it must take to do Eden's hair.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:19 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I remember the Israeli singer’s hairdo in minute detail, but I have absolutely no memory of the song. That probably doesn’t augur well for its chances, even if it’s a fairly pleasant song to listen to.
posted by Kattullus at 12:20 PM on May 22, 2021


The intricately braided part is probably a headpiece.

Otherwise, Isarel. Sigh. You're cute. You sing well. The high notes are a feat! But this song is so, so genric. I'm going to forget it by song four.
posted by PearlRose at 12:20 PM on May 22, 2021


Also, did Eden Alene do that costume switch in the semifinal? Or did the vaccine wipe out some memories?
posted by Kattullus at 12:21 PM on May 22, 2021


Yes, she did and I didn't like it then, either.
posted by PearlRose at 12:22 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


“The Wrong Place” is an appropriate title as they look like they just wandered into
posted by Kattullus at 12:23 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Belgium got an established band, Hooverphonic, to represent them this year, instead of the kids they usually send. The song is good.

I appreciate this song. I'd enjoy listening to it in a bar or at a music festival. But it feels weird here! This song is too good for Eurovision!
posted by PearlRose at 12:26 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


On the other hand, I wouldn’t be surprised if Belgium got an unexpectedly large number of votes, thanks to the demographic of Gen X parents forced to watch Eurovision by their children.
posted by Kattullus at 12:26 PM on May 22, 2021


Yeah, I felt really bad for the wide-eyed teenager Belgium sent in 2019.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:27 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


This is my favorite Russian submission in probably forever. It's different! It's sung well, and feels original. She has such a stage presence. I could watch her all day.
posted by PearlRose at 12:29 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


This makes me want more Russian music in my life.
posted by meese at 12:29 PM on May 22, 2021


Manizha is great, sad that got slotted in so early.
posted by the primroses were over at 12:31 PM on May 22, 2021


I still can't not see Russia's entry as being heavily inspired by that winning one from Israel a couple of years ago (and yet it's better than the Israeli song!).
posted by May Kasahara at 12:31 PM on May 22, 2021


Under the covers covering me on this here sofa, Malta has me dancing. The beat, even, feels different and fresh.
posted by Kattullus at 12:32 PM on May 22, 2021


Coming in late--I was eating--but yeah, I really like Belgium's song, but I don't know if it's Eurovision-y enough.

I'm not as big a fan of Malta's, but it's nice to hear a singer with some real bottom to her voice.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:32 PM on May 22, 2021


I love Malta, but dang this is silver fringe costume number how many?
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:33 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Malta, Malta, Malta. This was one of my favorites earlier, but something about the live version doesn't do it for me. I guess there's just too many upbeat pop acts this year. A shame it's pulled such an early slot in the running order.

She's an exceptional singer. She has charisma to spare. The song is fun! It has everything in it. I still want it to do well.
posted by PearlRose at 12:33 PM on May 22, 2021


I already really liked Malta's song, and now it's growing on me even more.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:34 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


“I left home when I was only sweet sixteen”

Now there’s a lyric written by someone who learned English from listening to their parents’ record collection.
posted by Kattullus at 12:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I really, really like Portugal's song. It's the only act I've seen through all of this where I went and checked out some of the rest of their music. (Spoiler: It's really good.)
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:36 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Portugal! ❤️❤️❤️
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:36 PM on May 22, 2021


The bass player has the looks, and dance moves, of a member of the English royal family.
posted by Kattullus at 12:37 PM on May 22, 2021


I looove Portugal
posted by gemmy at 12:38 PM on May 22, 2021


Now for something completely different. This was the other one that I didn't like until I saw the whole package during the semifinal. I really like the clever staging -- the soft lighting, and the subtle LED effects. It also just sounds better live. More heartfelt, more sincere.

It's also another one that's a little bit different during a year full of upbeat pop numbers and man-with-a-piano-esque ballads. I hope it does all right. It may be too plain for Eurovision. Still, I'm glad Portugal sends whatever they feel like, instead of what is "Eurovision trendy".
posted by PearlRose at 12:38 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


How is Portugal doing the black & white?
Just camera effects or lighting?
posted by cheshyre at 12:39 PM on May 22, 2021


The band for Portugal is really talented, but that performance feels more like an Oscar's original song performance than a Eurovision entry to me. *shrug* Won't be disappointed if it does well, but it just doesn't do much for me.
posted by the primroses were over at 12:41 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I swear that Serbia somehow yoinked a fictional girl band from a late 90s teen comedy, taught them Serbian, and sent them to Eurovision this year.
posted by Kattullus at 12:41 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


More unexpected genre shifts -- another proud Eurovision tradition.

Serbia is not bad. It's a really fun song! They are clearly having the best time up there on stage! I appreciate that it's in their native language. I think the vocals are a bit better from the semifinal.

However, the staging is a bit underwhelming, and I keep wanting to tell them to space themselves better. It's not symmetrical, and it's I want to fix it.
posted by PearlRose at 12:42 PM on May 22, 2021


All that hair in my face, I would fall off the stage.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:42 PM on May 22, 2021


Well, this is better than the last few UK entries, at least. (He said, trying to be optmistic.)
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 12:46 PM on May 22, 2021


The British singer dances likes he’s directing me where to park my car
posted by Kattullus at 12:48 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Ah, yes, Song 9. Time to find the alcohol.

I like the UK's song this time! It's a proper bop, which feels fresh for them. I wish his vocals were a little bit stronger. The staging is fun! It's a bit different, but still feels very Eurovision-y.

The backing vocals are so much better than his lead vocals, and it worries me because the backing vocals were prerecorded.
posted by PearlRose at 12:48 PM on May 22, 2021


I wish I could be optimistic as well, the UK being where I'm from, but this isn't it. For starters, it sounds a bit over-produced and the singer sounded a little off in the first verse.
posted by May Kasahara at 12:49 PM on May 22, 2021


Not sure I like his voice. Too bad, as this song is so much better that the last few UK entries.
posted by gemmy at 12:49 PM on May 22, 2021


All that Greek food is making me wish I'd brought more snacks.

Greece's staging effects are fun. Although I feel bad for the people in the arena. I guess they're just seeing a blinding green screen? Also, she is just a kid, and she's trying her best, but her facial expression seems very uncertain. I'm getting nervous from her nervousness!
posted by PearlRose at 12:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I would watch Greece's superhero movie.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Huh. All the talk about Greece being a superhero -- their 2020 song was Supergirl. So they just recycled the staging and effects? That ...would weirdly make sense.
posted by PearlRose at 12:54 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


The Swiss singer is very endearing on the whole, but what I find most endearing is that he clearly needs to think hard before he does his extremely minimal dance moves, and sometimes he doesn’t quite nail them.
posted by Kattullus at 12:55 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I like the Swiss singer. I like that the Swiss clearly felt inspired by their top five showing in 2019. They are in it to win it. For one of the ballads, it's not bad. I just wished I liked the song better.
posted by PearlRose at 12:57 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Here we go, Iceland!!!
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 12:58 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Oh, Iceland. My heart (again)! I wish you were there with everyone else.
posted by PearlRose at 12:58 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


For me, twee stuff is either really good or really eyeroll-inducing. Iceland is Good Twee.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:00 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Also, Iceland's song is about loving someone after being together for ten years? So wholesome, so good, so the best.
posted by meese at 1:01 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


I wish you were there , Iceland! <3
posted by gemmy at 1:01 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I didn't notice the empty arena on my first watch. I know it's a rehearsal showing, but I forgot that, of course, there wouldn't be people there for this one.

Iceland, please do well. Please do well. I love this preformance so freaking much.
posted by PearlRose at 1:02 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


Oh Daði and Gagnamagnið … they so would’ve run away with it last year.

Mind you, I really like “10 Years” too.
posted by Kattullus at 1:02 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Iceland was a lot of fun with a genuinely good song, and I may or may not have kind of a crush on the blue-haired one.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:02 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


They really benefit from their placement, being between two dramatic sad boy ballads.

Not that they wouldn’t have stood out anywhere in the running order.
posted by Kattullus at 1:04 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I heard someone joke that Spain was placed after Iceland so they'd have time to set up the moon. I now understand why they said that.
posted by PearlRose at 1:04 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I like Spain and his giant moon. I may just enjoy planetariums though.
posted by the primroses were over at 1:05 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Did something go wrong with Spain’s song? It ended really weirdly.
posted by Kattullus at 1:05 PM on May 22, 2021


I want to know what shampoo the Moldovan singer uses.
posted by Kattullus at 1:07 PM on May 22, 2021


Moldova, I feel like you should have just embraced the spectacle and just brought in the dancing ice cream cones from the music video. This just doesn't feel weird enough for Moldova. Embrace the weird. It's memorable. This ...isn't.
posted by PearlRose at 1:08 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Oh Moldova, how far you've fallen since 2018's adorableness. Plus another damn silver fringe costume.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 1:09 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Really hate this Moldovan entry. Not good. Not sure why she made it to the final.
posted by gemmy at 1:09 PM on May 22, 2021


They're just passing the same silver costume around at this point, right?
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 1:10 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


Germany is like Jedward with half the charm.
posted by Kattullus at 1:11 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Ironically, I *only* feel hate for this song.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:12 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


My husband's reaction to Germany: "These people are adults."
posted by meese at 1:13 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I don't feel hate, I just feel sorry... for Germany.
posted by May Kasahara at 1:13 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Oh, Germany. No. Just no.
posted by PearlRose at 1:13 PM on May 22, 2021


It’s a little known fact that the Germans actually have a proud tradition of comedy, that is genuinely funny.

But for some reason this is the kind of humor they export.
posted by Kattullus at 1:13 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Germany is funny but not good.
posted by gemmy at 1:14 PM on May 22, 2021


I do like the Finnish entry for being different from everything else in Eurovision, but it's not quite for me.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Germany's main purpose here was to be the weirdest possible transition to nu metal Finland.
posted by the primroses were over at 1:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [7 favorites]


Putting Finland after Germany was the perfect choice, unparalleled.
posted by meese at 1:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Since I’m mentioning little known facts about European nations, the Finns have a great line in writing catchy, soulful pop music.

But instead they send this kind of stuff to Eurovision. And let’s all thank them because Eurovision is all the better for it.
posted by Kattullus at 1:17 PM on May 22, 2021


Finland is a breath of fresh air! Something different. They are also pretty fun from the green room clips I've seen. (PLAY JA JA DING DONG, anyone?)

I'm glad they're here, doing their thing, and having a grand time. That's what makes Eurovision so great.
posted by PearlRose at 1:17 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I think this is a Linkin Park song?
posted by Urtylug at 1:18 PM on May 22, 2021


I always appreciate some good cow-adjacent music.
posted by meese at 1:21 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Bulgaria. It is objectively, a good song. It is far too bittersweet for me and I can't enjoy it. But she's doing a great job with it.
posted by PearlRose at 1:22 PM on May 22, 2021


I wouldn’t be surprised if Bulgaria did really well, it will appeal both to teens and their Gen X parents who they’ve forced to watch with them.
posted by Kattullus at 1:26 PM on May 22, 2021


I actually kind of like Lithuania, but in a semi-ironic 80s/90s "After I've had a few drinks" way.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:27 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Lithuania! My other favorite underdog entry this year. It's so good, but also fresh and unique. You keep doing what makes you happy. It's a joy to watch.
posted by PearlRose at 1:27 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Lithuania is so fun. They won’t win, but they will get heavy play at parties!
posted by gemmy at 1:28 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Really love Lithuania.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 1:28 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


With Lithuania, I can’t tell if I like the song, or if I just like the dancing so much that I would like any song being danced to.

Though I know I would like any song that would inspire people to dance that way.
posted by Kattullus at 1:28 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Ukraine’s song feels like the future felt like 20 years ago.
posted by Kattullus at 1:30 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Ukraine brought the road company from TRON: the Musical.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:31 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Yay! Ukraine. They always send something awesome that is unquestionably Ukranian.
posted by PearlRose at 1:31 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Ukraine might actually be my absolute favorite. It's so good and distinct and just wild.
posted by meese at 1:32 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


Ukraine’s singer seems like she has a penchant for stabbing people with a knife at parties, but in a good way.
posted by Kattullus at 1:32 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


Very unique. Love that Ukraine always brings it.
posted by gemmy at 1:33 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Comment I saw elsewhere: "I'm voting for Ukraine just so she doesn't put a curse on me."
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [6 favorites]


France is just going right out there, bringing the most french frenchness that ever did french.
posted by meese at 1:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [9 favorites]


None more French.
posted by Akhu at 1:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


France! This is very French. So French. She is amazing. I like her song well enough, I suppose. I keep getting distracted trying to figure out how the hell her top works.
posted by PearlRose at 1:36 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


France’s song feels like it’s part of the parade of former winners.

If it came on the radio I’d feel a warm feeling of recognition, and I’d wondered if I’d heard it somewhere on a sunkissed day in the south of France.
posted by Kattullus at 1:36 PM on May 22, 2021


Azerbaijan. Proof that some countries still take the contest very seriously.
posted by PearlRose at 1:39 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Azerbaijan's entry is one of those songs where the outfits do most of the heavy lifting.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:39 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Ladies, do NOT shrug your shoulders!
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 1:40 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I didn’t think much of the Azeri song before, but in my vaccine-addled state I kinda like it. Those weird spiky quarts shoulder pads are rather distracting though. What are they supposed to be?
posted by Kattullus at 1:40 PM on May 22, 2021


Look, I think Eurovision should be approached with positivity and love, but I hate this stupid Norwegian entry so much. Sorry Norway.
posted by the primroses were over at 1:42 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Careful ladies, don't get too close, that black hole could suck you in and you'll be lost forever
posted by Urtylug at 1:43 PM on May 22, 2021


The Norwegian act won’t lose because they were too subtle, that’s for certain.
posted by Kattullus at 1:43 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Norway - charming singer. Meh song. Over the top staging, which is what we're here for. You don't want to be subtle at Eurovision.
posted by PearlRose at 1:43 PM on May 22, 2021


Efentix is my least favorite thing this year.
posted by Akhu at 1:44 PM on May 22, 2021


"Axl Rose Being Cast Down Into Hell". 2021. Colorized.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:44 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I think that's also the backing track from Last Christmas by Wham?
posted by Urtylug at 1:47 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


The Dutch entry this year is a very respectable host country's song. Bright, accessible, fun, and very definitely not going to win.
posted by PearlRose at 1:47 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


The Dutch song is good, but it runs into the frequent Eurovision problem that the back-up singers and dancer are much more charming than the lead singer.
posted by Kattullus at 1:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I liked the Dutch entry a lot better when it got to the chorus. Anyone know what language that is? I couldn't quite place it.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 1:50 PM on May 22, 2021


Apparently Italy is the bookies’ favorite, but they remind me of nothing so much as the kind of fake band that’s playing in a TV ad selling an “edgy” body spray.
posted by Kattullus at 1:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


Huh. I didn’t know Buckcherry was Italian.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 1:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I liked the Dutch entry a lot better when it got to the chorus. Anyone know what language that is? I couldn't quite place it.

The hook of the Dutch entry, "Birth of a New Age", says "yu no man broko mi" ("you can't break me") in Sranan Togo. The artist was born in Suriname.
posted by PearlRose at 1:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


It's Sranan Togo, from Suriname. It means you can't break me.

On preview, what PearlRose said.
posted by mirthe at 1:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Yay Italy!! This is fun. I had not seen this.
posted by gemmy at 1:53 PM on May 22, 2021


I think Finland win the metal-off.
posted by Urtylug at 1:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I know Italy is a favorite. It is good. It is different. If it won, I would not be sad. Italy always sends really good music.

But I like so many other songs better this year.
posted by PearlRose at 1:54 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Sweden. You always send nice things. I just wish it wasn't the same nice thing every time.

That said! He sounds way better today than he did in the semi.
posted by PearlRose at 1:57 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


The Swedes have essentially sent their own version of 2019’s winner. Though to be fair a Swede probably wrote that song too.

My point is Eurovision is Sweden’s world, the rest of us are just living in it.
posted by Kattullus at 1:57 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Sweden is pretty good and very Eurovision
posted by Urtylug at 1:58 PM on May 22, 2021


And has a million watt smile. :)
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 1:59 PM on May 22, 2021


Oh, Flo Rida, I was living in the US in 2007 when “Low” was the absolute song of the year, and I had completely forgotten he existed. In case you were wondering why he was cameoing on a song from a country with 35 thousand residents only people who watch Eurovision and obscure football matches know exists.

That said, he still knows how to command a stage.
posted by Kattullus at 2:01 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


San Marino made it to the Finals for only the third time ever. This is objectively their best entry ever. Let's hear it for the tiny micro nation! That somehow manages to get the resources together to get Flo Rida to cameo.

Fun song, Flo Rida is excellent. Senhit's vocals are ...still a bit rough. Good energy for ending the evening, though. It is a bright bop, and what is Eurovision without bright bops? Nothing.
posted by PearlRose at 2:02 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


Oh look, the Portuguese pulled the same exact “on the phone” gag for their voting cutaway as they did in the semifinal. Somehow even less funny the second time.
posted by Kattullus at 2:05 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


There. I've gotten my voting out of the way for this year. Iceland, Portugal, and (surprising myself) Ukraine.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:09 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Cyprus, Sweden, Finland.
posted by Urtylug at 2:12 PM on May 22, 2021


I think my top three would be Iceland, Ukraine and Russia. Toss in Bulgaria and Malta for a top 5.

I have no idea who will actually win; I'm terrible at these kind of predictions.
posted by the primroses were over at 2:14 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Every time I think the hosts are less awkward than usual, they do something like the phone gag. Then I am pulled right back into the proud Eurovision tradition.

This interval act is ...sigh. I don't get it. Perhaps I am turning into an Old afterall.
posted by PearlRose at 2:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Well, no one I vote for ever wins, so...spoilers for my own very specific curse, I suppose.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


My personal top five are Malta, Greece, Iceland, Lithuania, and Ukraine. Iceland's in my number one slot, followed by Ukraine, then the rest.
posted by May Kasahara at 2:15 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


My top five this year are Iceland, Lithuania, Ukraine, Russia and I'd had Malta originally, now it's Portugal. Maybe Finland.
posted by PearlRose at 2:16 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I find myself wondering at the sheer scale of the phone infrastructure they have to set up for this every year. I'm glad it's someone else's problem.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:19 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Iceland gets all my votes. I also liked Ukraine.
posted by Pendragon at 2:19 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]




Go_A is the only band I’ve first seen on Eurovision that I’ve wanted desperately to see live.

I voted for Iceland, though, in proud European expat tradition on Eurovision night.
posted by Kattullus at 2:24 PM on May 22, 2021


I'd forgotten how ridiculous the waiting can be while the votes are sent in. I want to know who's going to win!
posted by PearlRose at 2:27 PM on May 22, 2021


Did that... Did that guy just say he's seventy?
posted by meese at 2:28 PM on May 22, 2021


Yes, but to be fair, they use metric in Europe.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 2:29 PM on May 22, 2021 [6 favorites]




HOLD THE WHEEL, LADY
posted by Urtylug at 2:31 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Oh wait! I just remembered I still have my Icelandic SIM card. I have also voted for Ukraine. Hopefully that will spare me a stabbing.
posted by Kattullus at 2:32 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Dammit Eurovision, stop playing clips that make me cry.
posted by PearlRose at 2:33 PM on May 22, 2021


And I also voted for Finland because they need to be encouraged to continue with this sort of thing.
posted by Kattullus at 2:36 PM on May 22, 2021


But Finland was awful.... Some weak nu-metal rip-off.
posted by Pendragon at 2:39 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Eurovision must be for everyone, including the people who liked Crazy Town better before they went too pop, or it is for no one.
posted by Kattullus at 2:42 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Awww. I was wondering how they were going to handle the situation with Duncan. I guess it's also rehearsal footage from earlier in the week?
posted by PearlRose at 2:47 PM on May 22, 2021


I’m so sad for him. Imagine performing in front of his countrypeople and now he doesn’t get to :(
posted by gemmy at 2:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


When I realized that they were going to dance the countdown I was getting my eyes ready to roll, but this was actually fairly impressive.
posted by Kattullus at 2:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I'm literally shaking right now. It's hard to believe this is really happening.
posted by PearlRose at 2:55 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I'm learning from this voting that Europeans have substantially different tastes than mine.
posted by meese at 2:59 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Remember that these are the jury votes, the public vote arrives in big chunks at the end and can change the order dramatically.
posted by Kattullus at 3:01 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


The scores are all over the place right now. The songs were very good this year. The Swiss seem to be pulling ahead in the jury vote.
posted by PearlRose at 3:02 PM on May 22, 2021


The Swiss song was one of my least favorite entries. Won't be happy if they win.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:03 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Oh Vienna!
posted by Kattullus at 3:04 PM on May 22, 2021


Why is France doing so well? Why?
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:05 PM on May 22, 2021


What is often jury bait doesn't always do well in the televote. I'm looking at you, Sweden's last several entries.
posted by PearlRose at 3:06 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


The Finnish commentator was so happy when the Italian jury gave 10 points to Finland.
posted by Kattullus at 3:06 PM on May 22, 2021


Because it is a good song ?
posted by Pendragon at 3:06 PM on May 22, 2021




Epic sax guy!
posted by Kattullus at 3:08 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Greece is back to giving Cyprus 12 points again, I see.
posted by PearlRose at 3:08 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


And the Finnish commentator again so happy to get 10 points from Serbia for the objectively good Finnish song.
posted by Kattullus at 3:10 PM on May 22, 2021


Yes, France overtakes Switzerland!
posted by the primroses were over at 3:10 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Moldova should just bring Epic Sax Guy every year.
posted by PearlRose at 3:11 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Belgian jury clearly made up of Flemish-speakers.
posted by Kattullus at 3:12 PM on May 22, 2021


Cyprus returns the favor, with 12 points to Greece. It's nice to see that some traditions have endured.
posted by PearlRose at 3:12 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Don’t worry UK, you can just start a new Super Euro Song Contest for next time.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 3:14 PM on May 22, 2021 [6 favorites]


Germany with the first sozzled points announcer.
posted by Kattullus at 3:16 PM on May 22, 2021


Rooting for France here
posted by Urtylug at 3:17 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


And Australia the second. All drunk from now on, please.
posted by Kattullus at 3:17 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I'm really glad Iceland is still really showing strongly. Fingers crossed.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:18 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Is he old enough to drink?
posted by Urtylug at 3:18 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Iceland, Malta, or Italy could still take it, depending on the jury vote. Along with Switzerland and France.
posted by PearlRose at 3:19 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


I feel I should mention that Hannes Óli is an old friend of mine.
posted by Kattullus at 3:19 PM on May 22, 2021 [7 favorites]


JA JA DING DONG!!!
posted by Pendragon at 3:20 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


I absolutely love how Eurovision embraces Ja Ja Ding Dong
posted by meese at 3:21 PM on May 22, 2021 [6 favorites]


Twelve points to Portugal! Yes!
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:22 PM on May 22, 2021


Ukraine! Huzzah!
posted by Kattullus at 3:23 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


I knew Lithuania was my favorite this year for a reason.
posted by PearlRose at 3:25 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Lithuania, that feels like a political statement?
posted by gemmy at 3:26 PM on May 22, 2021


Big Swedish hand!
posted by Kattullus at 3:26 PM on May 22, 2021


I don’t get the Malta love.
posted by gemmy at 3:28 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Go France!
posted by Urtylug at 3:33 PM on May 22, 2021


Oh man. OH MAN.

Is getting zero points a common thing?
posted by meese at 3:34 PM on May 22, 2021


Ooooof. UK. Nul points.
posted by PearlRose at 3:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Hahaha, way to be a good sport UK
posted by the primroses were over at 3:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Ouuuuuuuch. Zero points for the UK.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:35 PM on May 22, 2021


meese: Is getting zero points a common thing?

It’s been many years since that happened, actually.

Awww, I’m actually touched that the audience applaud the guys who got 0 points.
posted by Kattullus at 3:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


At least Germany definitely lost.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 3:35 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Germany is such a good sport. I guess they're really happy to not be last.
posted by PearlRose at 3:36 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Go Lithuania!
posted by May Kasahara at 3:38 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Woo, go Lithuania!
posted by the primroses were over at 3:38 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


FINLAND NUMBER ONE

for now
posted by Kattullus at 3:39 PM on May 22, 2021


I'm glad the televote helped Lithuania. They deserved a left-hand side of the board finish.
posted by PearlRose at 3:39 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


UKRAINE NUMBER ONE!

for now
posted by Kattullus at 3:40 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Finland definitely won the televote, or at least came darn close.
posted by PearlRose at 3:41 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Oh, Portugal got robbed.
posted by Mr. Bad Example at 3:41 PM on May 22, 2021


ICELAND NUMBER ONE!!!

for now
posted by Kattullus at 3:42 PM on May 22, 2021 [4 favorites]


YAY ICELAND
posted by meese at 3:42 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Italy number one

for now?
posted by Kattullus at 3:43 PM on May 22, 2021


Wow, I guess Italy is a favorite
posted by the primroses were over at 3:43 PM on May 22, 2021


Iceland! My other favorite. I knew the televote would help it.
posted by PearlRose at 3:43 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Italy has just sealed it.
posted by PearlRose at 3:44 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


France needs to win this so she can get back to Bill and Ted.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 3:45 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


I can’t tell which will lead to worse copycat entrants, Italy or Switzerland. Probably the former.
posted by Kattullus at 3:46 PM on May 22, 2021


I thought a couple of countries were going to dominate the televote. I don't think there's 258 points left to give.
posted by PearlRose at 3:48 PM on May 22, 2021


Well, my top two made the top five, so I guess that's good.
posted by meese at 3:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Welp, congratulazioni!
posted by the primroses were over at 3:49 PM on May 22, 2021


First they won the battle of the bands in School of Rock and now they've won Eurovision.
posted by villanelles at dawn at 3:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


The Finnish public gave Iceland its 12 points and Ukraine its 10, I knew I was in the right country.
posted by Kattullus at 3:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


Yeah. Thought so. Basic math didn't check. But congrats, Italy! They always send consistently good stuff. They came in 2nd in 2019. They have no doubt earned this. Yay!!
posted by PearlRose at 3:49 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Congrats to Italy! Not my favorite song, but I'm cool with it. Great to see that Iceland and Ukraine got in the top five as well.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:50 PM on May 22, 2021 [3 favorites]


PearlRose: Italy's 2019 entry was probably my favorite that year. This kind of makes up for it.
posted by May Kasahara at 3:50 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


My two favorites did their countries proud. Heck, they all did. It wouldn't be Eurovision without them.
posted by PearlRose at 3:52 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Italy's 2019 entry was probably my favorite that year. This kind of makes up for it.

Oh, it was mine as well! That's a big reason why I'm happy for Italy this time.
posted by PearlRose at 3:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


This was so fun!!! Thanks all.
posted by gemmy at 3:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


I never get how this show runs. It's 1am in the Netherlands, 3am in Baku! Can't they start earlier?
posted by Urtylug at 3:55 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


It was fun!
posted by Urtylug at 3:55 PM on May 22, 2021


Finland: RÄWK
Italy: Tieni la mia birra.
posted by Orange Dinosaur Slide at 3:55 PM on May 22, 2021 [8 favorites]


I look forward to more fantastic music and sheer fun in Italy in 2022 with everyone!
posted by PearlRose at 3:59 PM on May 22, 2021 [5 favorites]


Well, Rotterdam’s on the west coast of the Netherlands, so they start late.
posted by Huffy Puffy at 4:01 PM on May 22, 2021 [1 favorite]


Thanks all for making a fun event better! I’m glad I chose MetaFilter over Twitter. Nothing makes me feel older and more out of touch than seeing people I went to grade school with old-man-snark about Eurovision.

See you all in Italy next year!
posted by Kattullus at 4:32 PM on May 22, 2021 [7 favorites]


what's the bet? Music or spectacle?

Why not both?


Oh god, I'm never going to be able to predict the winner this well again, am I?
posted by PearlRose at 5:53 PM on May 22, 2021 [2 favorites]


Since I’m mentioning little known facts about European nations, the Finns have a great line in writing catchy, soulful pop music.

Kind of late, but Kattulus, any recommendations? (Especially in Finnish?)
posted by trig at 6:33 AM on May 23, 2021 [1 favorite]


My favorite recent hit is Elovena by Yeboyah, but Vesala, Vesta, Litku Klemetti and Maustetytöt are all good places to start. Lyyti is a good, poppy indie artist, I especially like the song Juhlat.
posted by Kattullus at 8:58 AM on May 23, 2021 [3 favorites]


Hooray, thank you!!
posted by trig at 9:13 AM on May 23, 2021 [1 favorite]




This was such a strong year. I have so many of this year's songs on my Spotify playlists. I'm thrilled that Iceland made Top 5 and Russia made Top 10.
posted by SisterHavana at 11:56 AM on May 24, 2021 [1 favorite]


I missed this story when it happened, but Kateryna Pavlenko fell ill and had to sit out the second rehearsal. A Dutch singer, Emmie van Stijn, sat in for her which gave the performance very different energy. The band were so happy with her that they invited her to sit with them in the Green Room on stage. My favorite detail is that the Dutch singer had to call out from going to her shift at Taco Bell.
posted by Kattullus at 1:47 AM on May 25, 2021 [3 favorites]


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