Did you fall in love with American Song Contest? If so, you will love Eurovision 2022!
What is Eurovision?
Eurovision is the original song competition that spawned the American Song Contest. It’s known for imaginative and memorable sets and performances that keep fans coming back for more. The show judges one original song from each nation. It pits them against each other in two semifinals heats and then the show finale to determine a winner in a spectacle that you have to see to believe.
Where Will Eurovision Be Held?
The 40 nation event will take place at PalaOlimpico in Turin, Italy. You may remember this venue from the hockey events at the 2006 Winter Olympics. It’s a perfect venue and sits just a short walk from the Olympic Stadium.
Italy was last year’s big winner. They won with the song “Zitti e buoni” by Måneskin.
- First Semi-Final: Tuesday, May 10, 2022
- Second Semi-Final: Thursday, May 12, 2022
- Grand Final: Saturday, May 14, 2022
What to Watch for at Eurovision 2022
Alessandro Cattelan, who is an Italian television presenter will host the show along with Italian singer Laura Pausini and Bristish-Lebanese singer and songwriter Mika. The 66th edition of the competition is themed “The Sound of Beauty.”
39 countries competed last year, and this year’s competition will welcome 40. Armenia and Montenegro didn’t compete last time but will enter this year and Russia has been excluded since the invasion of Ukraine.
Who Will Win This Year’s Eurovision?
Last time Italy won and they were followed by France and Switzerland. This time Ukraine is a heavy favorite.
Ukraine will be represented by Kalush Orchestra with their song “Stefania.” Kalush Orchestra is a rap group made up of Oleh Psiuk, Ihor Didenchuk, and DJ MC Kilimmen. They are signed to American recording label Def Jam Recordings and have been performing together for three years. They have released two albums in the past, Hotin in February of 2021 and Yo-yo (Йо-йо), later that year, which was a collaboration with fellow Ukrainian rapper Skofka.
Oddsmakers think the safe money is on Ukraine or other top contenders like the host country, Italy followed by Sweden and the UK.
Italy’s entrant is Mahmood and Blanco with their song “Brividi.” Alessandro Mahmoud, whose stage name is Mahmood is from Milan and has represented Italy before at Eurovision 2019 in Tel Aviv. He came in second with his song “Soldi.” While he has released two solo projects, this time he will be teaming up with Riccardo Fabbriconi, whose stage name is Blanco. He came to prominence releasing his EP “Quarantine Paranoid” during the pandemic. Italy has big expectations for this duo.
Cornelia Jakobs will represent Sweden with her song “Hold Me Closer.” Cornelia Jakobs qualified to represent Sweden by winning Melodifestivalen 2022, which she had participated in 10 years earlier as part of girl group Love Generation. Their song came in 26th, so she has come a long way.
Sam Ryder was born in Maldon, England and he is the United Kingdom’s entrant with his original song “Space Man.” Ryder has been a successful session musician since 2009. He has worked with bands like Close Your Eyes and The Morning After. He came to prominence posting covers of songs during the coronavirus pandemic and was selected by the BBC as the UK representative for the contest.
Where Can I Watch Eurovision 2022 in the US?
It will be broadcast by Peacock on their app. In the US, Eurovision’s finale will air at 3 PM EST on Saturday, May 14, 2022. The best place to catch Eurovision in the US is at NYC gin bar, The Winslow. There are plenty of TVs, fantastic food and the best gin you will find anywhere.
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