 The country with the most victories in the Eurovision Song Contest is Ireland. Seven times out of 44 participations in history they came first. : Ireland has won three times after another 1992, 1993 and 1994 and even one year later 1996. There was a time when calm songs, ballads with folkloristic elements had the best chance of winning. The Irish winners were: “All kinds of everything” by Dana (#1) in 1970, “What’s another year” by Johnny Logan (#1) in 1980, “Hold me now” by Johnny Logan (#1) in 1987, “Why me” by Linda Martin (#1) in 1992, “In your eyes” by Niamh Kavanagh (#1) in 1993 “Rock’n Roll Kids” by Paul Harrington & Charlie McGettigan in1994 and “The voice” by Eimear Quinn (#1) in 1996. Ireland has not been that successful anymore recently, the competition from Eastern Europe has grown. All the other countries can sing in English, of course the classic participants have to be more eager. Even if there were some bad entries the Dustin the Turkey, the Irish showed their gallows humour. Bringing former winners on stage has not been very successful, Niamh Kavanagh failed in the final with a superb song “It’s for you” (#23), a big disappointment for her and Ireland. But the Irish are still confident and try it again and again. In the RTE late night show there were five entries from successful composers. With a little surprise the twin brothers Jedward won the ticket to Düsseldorf with “Lipstick”. Even Johnny Logan was not amused that these guys represent Ireland in such a big show like the Eurovision Song Contest. “Lipstick” is a fast, stressful song with a demanding chorus, sung by two really crazy guys with extraordinary high hair. The song has been written for a female singer originally, but Jedward could bring a bit more spice into it. Starting on #17 is a good place, but this is probably not the best song Ireland could have sent this year. These two guys need a really convincing show in Düsseldorf, otherwise they will fail. |
Participant(s): Jedward
