Sunday 19 May 2019

Eurovision 2019 semi-ultimate recap: Norway, The Netherlands, Sweden and Russia amongst countries advancing to closing in Tel Aviv

The 2d Eurovision semi-last of 2019 has taken location in Tel Aviv, Israel.

Contestants from 18 countries performed their songs within the hope of making it via to the closing this weekend (18 might also), but just 10 made it via.

those countries had been: North Macedonia, The Netherlands, Albania, Sweden, Russia, Azerbaijan, Denmark, Norway, Switzerland and Malta.

We'll let you know what's authentic. that you would be able to form your personal view.

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They be part of the 10 nations that made it during the first semi-last on 14 can also: Greece, Belarus, Serbia, Cyprus, Estonia, Czech Republic, Australia, Iceland, San Marino and Slovenia, plus the "large 5" and this 12 months's host, Israel.

leftCreated with Sketch. rightCreated with Sketch. 1/10 10. stronger the satan You recognize - Sonia (Runner-up in Millstreet, 1993) 352.9pts

Sonia's Eurovision adventure took her to Millstreet, eire - and with its population of simply 1,500, it holds the checklist for being the smallest host "metropolis". the city's equestrian area changed into converted right into a television studio for the contest, which means that many of the video postcards between performances have a very horsey vibe. Ms Evans chit-chats to a few foals in hers. This year the uk received 3 facets from Bosnia and Herzegovina. When that certain Balkan jury managed to cell via on a connection that sounded so fragile and fragmented, they bought the greatest applause of the night, having delivered their votes in the midst of the Bosnian conflict. Eurovision at its most vital.

PA

2/10 9. Making Your mind Up - Bucks Fizz (Winner in Dublin, 1981) 355.4pts

This tune is so synonymous with British Eurovision glory, what might maybe explain it rating no higher than 9th? Bucks Fizz are ingrained into the national psyche by way of the every year repetition of that one skirt-whipping clip. however we'd imagine that Cheryl, Jay, Mike and Bobby may be the first to assert their vocals weren't reasonably as polished as we've come to expect from the legendary band. however, that takes completely nothing faraway from this absolute traditional. And if our rundown is inspiring you to do slightly of a Eurovision deep dive, then take a look at the poptastic "Christmas With The Fizz" (who cares that it's may also?) and Jay Aston's "real Love" on Spotify.

PA

three/10 8. Ooh Aah... simply a little Bit - Gina G (eighth in Oslo, 1996) 360.1pts

Cher has an enjoyable habit of overlaying Eurovision artists: ABBA (she launched an entire album remaining year), Bucks Fizz ("coronary heart of Stone"), Johnny Logan (separately), and Gina G, literally, with a rejected, spangly gown. That iconic outfit Gina wore in Oslo became in reality customized made by Paco Rabanne for Cher, who turned into residing in Wapping on the time. For whatever intent, the "consider" hitmaker cast apart the glittering garment one afternoon on the Warner Bros places of work, where Ms G later stumbled throughout it placing up just days before the competition. She stuffed it into her purse and the relaxation is historical past.

PA

4/10 7. Puppet on a String - Sandie Shaw (Winner in Vienna, 1967) 366.5pts

Our first Eurovision victory. Sandie notoriously hated this track "from the very first oompah to the final bang on the large bass drum… i was instinctively repelled by means of its sexist drivel and cuckoo-clock tune" she recalls in her autobiography. As a part of a promo force to reinvigorate Sandie's public profile, "Puppet On A String" become written for the competition and never for its performer – fortuitously, because the British public nevertheless loves it over half a century later, and it could not have ever existed.

Getty

5/10 6. where Are You? - Imaani (Runner-up in Birmingham, 1998) 366.7pts

If there's one UK entry that deserves greater attention than it gets, it's this. Imaani turned into the united kingdom's fifteenth and most contemporary runner-up. She narrowly ignored out on a hometurf victory as "where Are You?" didn't win any aspects when the remaining jury dished out their ratings. It's each frustrating and completely happy that a habitual characteristic of Eurovision is that sometimes a fantastic performance on my own isn't sufficient to win. 1998 became a crucial 12 months for trans visibility across Europe, as Israeli celeb Dana international received the competitors through a margin of 6 points together with her track "Diva". She'll be performing on the finals this week, alongside Madonna – each dressed with the aid of Jean Paul Gaultier, who created Dana's iconic feathery Birmingham victory outfit..

PA

6/10 5. boom Bang-a-Bang - Lulu (Winner in Madrid, 1969) 367.4pts

Lulu won the 14th contest in a four-means tie with France, Spain and the Netherlands – a circumstance which triggered Finland, Norway, Portugal and Sweden to withdraw from right here 12 months's contest out of protest. Such drama! Salvador Dalí designed the promotional substances for the competition as smartly as the stage, which explains the a little weird metal sculpture that Lulu performed in entrance of.

PA

7/10 4. Love Shine a lightweight - Katrina and the Waves (Winner in Dublin, 1997) 381.1pts

It's been 22 long years due to the fact Katrina Leskanich brought home our last Eurovision victory, and we suspect it'll be at the least 23 years unless the subsequent. "Love Shine a light-weight" changed into at the start written as a tune for the Samaritans organisation, however a couple of pals and colleagues satisfied Leskanich to enter it into that years' tune For Europe the place it romped to victory, 11,138 votes forward of our different talents entry: "Yodel within the Canyon of love" through Do-Re Me feat Kerri.

PA

eight/10 three. Storm - SuRie (twenty fourth in Lisbon, 2018) 381.4pts

Eurovision performances can stand out for all kinds of causes. SuRie's time on stage is memorable no longer as a result of her microphone became snatched by a stage invader, but incidentally she reacted to the situation. Few different artists on this listing would have dealt with it so deftly. As she picks the mic from off the ground, she kicks back into the bridge with the lyrics: "grasp your head up, don't surrender, no no" - at which factor that you may see her adrenaline weaponising these phrases to convey a defiant, victorious and unforgettable end to the tune. In 60+ years of Eurovision participation SuRie's performance is unique in that it easily transcends the track. An absolute ambassador for Britain's participation in Eurovision, her subsequent single "handiest You and that i" is out on 17 may additionally.

Getty

9/10 2. shop Your Kisses for Me - Brotherhood of Man (Winner in the Hague, 1976) 381.9pts

With a last-2nd plot twist to rival those in video game of Thrones, "save Your Kisses For Me" is the maximum ranking winner on our chart. 1976 was the primary time because the Sixties that our countrywide ultimate changed into open to distinctive artists, as opposed to one act selected by the BBC proposing a number of tracks. The Brotherhood fought off stiff competitors from Co-Co and candy goals (who would both go on to characterize in 'seventy eight and '83 respectively), as well as turns from Hazel Dean and Tony Christie. check out Kenickie's edition, commissioned in the late Nineties with the aid of Channel four for a distinct Eurotrash does Eurovision compilation.

PA

10/10 1. on no account hand over on You - Lucie Jones (fifteenth in Kiev, 2017) 398.4pts

Uh oh. We fully realise that some enthusiasts will race to the bottom of this list, see "Lucie Jones" at #1, slam their Union Jack mug down, open a new tab and furiously tap out a tweet about the ludicrousness of all of it. In a further ballot, in yet another format, a further music might come right – but judging throughout composition, lyrics, vocals, presentation and charisma, Lucie's performance ranked particularly in all 5 categories with all 20 jury participants. a strong music, expertly delivered and beautifully staged. "in no way give up On You" serves as a reminder that when we try, we're not a lost trigger at Eurovision. at some point within the no longer too far-off future, a British artist will come along with a self-penned track, a narrative to inform, a vision of the way to present it, and a character that'll shine through on Europe's greatest stage. in the event that they healthy Lucie's technical capability, that's after we'll win Eurovision once again.

AFP/Getty

1/10 10. more suitable the satan You understand - Sonia (Runner-up in Millstreet, 1993) 352.9pts

Sonia's Eurovision adventure took her to Millstreet, eire - and with its inhabitants of just 1,500, it holds the list for being the smallest host "city". town's equestrian arena changed into transformed into a television studio for the competition, that means that lots of the video postcards between performances have a extremely horsey vibe. Ms Evans chit-chats to a few foals in hers. This yr the uk gained 3 elements from Bosnia and Herzegovina. When that particular Balkan jury managed to mobile via on a connection that sounded so fragile and fragmented, they got the greatest applause of the evening, having delivered their votes in the midst of the Bosnian conflict. Eurovision at its most vital.

PA

2/10 9. Making Your intellect Up - Bucks Fizz (Winner in Dublin, 1981) 355.4pts

This tune is so synonymous with British Eurovision glory, what could maybe explain it ranking no higher than 9th? Bucks Fizz are ingrained into the country wide psyche via the every year repetition of that one skirt-whipping clip. but we'd imagine that Cheryl, Jay, Mike and Bobby stands out as the first to claim their vocals weren't rather as polished as we've come to are expecting from the legendary band. youngsters, that takes fully nothing faraway from this absolute basic. And if our rundown is inspiring you to do somewhat of a Eurovision deep dive, then try the poptastic "Christmas With The Fizz" (who cares that it's may additionally?) and Jay Aston's "genuine Love" on Spotify.

PA

3/10 8. Ooh Aah... simply a little Bit - Gina G (eighth in Oslo, 1996) 360.1pts

Cher has an entertaining dependancy of covering Eurovision artists: ABBA (she released an entire album closing yr), Bucks Fizz ("coronary heart of Stone"), Johnny Logan (one at a time), and Gina G, actually, with a rejected, spangly costume. That iconic outfit Gina wore in Oslo changed into truly custom made by way of Paco Rabanne for Cher, who was residing in Wapping on the time. For whatever purpose, the "consider" hitmaker solid apart the glittering garment one afternoon on the Warner Bros offices, where Ms G later stumbled across it hanging up simply days earlier than the competition. She stuffed it into her handbag and the rest is heritage.

PA

four/10 7. Puppet on a String - Sandie Shaw (Winner in Vienna, 1967) 366.5pts

Our first Eurovision victory. Sandie notoriously hated this song "from the very first oompah to the final bang on the large bass drum… i was instinctively repelled through its sexist drivel and cuckoo-clock tune" she recollects in her autobiography. As a part of a promo drive to reinvigorate Sandie's public profile, "Puppet On A String" turned into written for the competition and never for its performer – fortunately, because the British public still loves it over half a century later, and it may now not have ever existed.

Getty

5/10 6. the place Are You? - Imaani (Runner-up in Birmingham, 1998) 366.7pts

If there's one UK entry that deserves extra consciousness than it gets, it's this. Imaani turned into the united kingdom's fifteenth and most contemporary runner-up. She narrowly ignored out on a hometurf victory as "where Are You?" did not win any facets when the ultimate jury dished out their ratings. It's both frustrating and glad that a habitual characteristic of Eurovision is that from time to time a fantastic performance on my own isn't enough to win. 1998 turned into a crucial year for trans visibility throughout Europe, as Israeli superstar Dana overseas received the competition via a margin of 6 points together with her track "Diva". She'll be performing at the finals this week, alongside Madonna – both dressed through Jean Paul Gaultier, who created Dana's iconic feathery Birmingham victory outfit..

PA

6/10 5. increase Bang-a-Bang - Lulu (Winner in Madrid, 1969) 367.4pts

Lulu gained the 14th contest in a four-method tie with France, Spain and the Netherlands – a condition which triggered Finland, Norway, Portugal and Sweden to withdraw from here 12 months's contest out of protest. Such drama! Salvador Dalí designed the promotional materials for the competition as smartly because the stage, which explains the a bit of weird metal sculpture that Lulu performed in front of.

PA

7/10 four. Love Shine a lightweight - Katrina and the Waves (Winner in Dublin, 1997) 381.1pts

It's been 22 lengthy years due to the fact Katrina Leskanich introduced domestic our ultimate Eurovision victory, and we suspect it'll be as a minimum 23 years except the next. "Love Shine a light-weight" became at the start written as a song for the Samaritans supplier, but a few friends and colleagues convinced Leskanich to enter it into that years' song For Europe where it romped to victory, 11,138 votes forward of our different skills entry: "Yodel in the Canyon of affection" by Do-Re Me feat Kerri.

PA

eight/10 3. Storm - SuRie (24th in Lisbon, 2018) 381.4pts

Eurovision performances can stand out for all kinds of factors. SuRie's time on stage is memorable not because her microphone became snatched by means of a stage invader, however incidentally she reacted to the condition. Few different artists on this listing would have dealt with it so deftly. As she picks the mic from off the floor, she kicks again into the bridge with the lyrics: "hold your head up, don't hand over, no no" - at which point which you can see her adrenaline weaponising those words to deliver a defiant, effective and unforgettable end to the tune. In 60+ years of Eurovision participation SuRie's efficiency is wonderful in that it easily transcends the song. An absolute ambassador for Britain's participation in Eurovision, her next single "most effective You and that i" is out on 17 may additionally.

Getty

9/10 2. keep Your Kisses for Me - Brotherhood of Man (Winner within the Hague, 1976) 381.9pts

With a last-2nd plot twist to rival these in online game of Thrones, "retailer Your Kisses For Me" is the maximum ranking winner on our chart. 1976 turned into the first time on the grounds that the Sixties that our countrywide final become open to multiple artists, in place of one act selected by using the BBC featuring a number of tracks. The Brotherhood fought off stiff competition from Co-Co and sweet dreams (who would both go on to represent in '78 and '83 respectively), in addition to turns from Hazel Dean and Tony Christie. take a look at Kenickie's edition, commissioned within the late Nineties by Channel four for a different Eurotrash does Eurovision compilation.

PA

10/10 1. not ever quit on You - Lucie Jones (15th in Kiev, 2017) 398.4pts

Uh oh. We completely realise that some enthusiasts will race to the backside of this list, see "Lucie Jones" at number one, slam their Union Jack mug down, open a new tab and furiously faucet out a tweet in regards to the ludicrousness of it all. In an additional ballot, in a different structure, a further track may come top – however judging across composition, lyrics, vocals, presentation and charisma, Lucie's performance ranked incredibly in all 5 categories with all 20 jury individuals. a strong track, expertly delivered and superbly staged. "on no account hand over On You" serves as a reminder that when we are attempting, we're no longer a lost cause at Eurovision. in the future within the not too distant future, a British artist will come together with a self-penned tune, a story to inform, a vision of how to current it, and a personality that'll shine through on Europe's largest stage. in the event that they healthy Lucie's technical means, that's after we'll win Eurovision once more.

AFP/Getty

The Netherlands is the one to beat on the ultimate, as our Eurovision Correspondent Rob Holley feedback: "Arcade" sung by using Duncan Laurence has lengthy been the pre-contest everyday and has been doing smartly in rehearsals.

"There's fully nothing in the approach of Duncan profitable the competition," Rob says, "although the presentation veers worryingly near 'I'm just going to let the track do the talking' – which normal viewers will understand doesn't all the time reduce it at Europe's greatest circus."

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"Arcade is based on somebody close to me who I misplaced when i used to be younger," Duncan Laurence explains. "She all the time longed for her like to come back after they'd split up, but except the day she died they on no account came returned. i wanted to tell her story."

together with the performances by distinct competing countries, the second semi-final additionally had a reveal by the Shalva Band, made from 8 gifted musicians with disabilities, who carried out "1,000,000 desires" from The greatest Showman and it's pretty striking.

See the total operating order for tonight's competition below, along with our thoughts on each and every performance.

1) Armenia – Srbuk performing "strolling Out"

Ooh this is very dark and mysterious and atmospheric. respectable vocals, too. a pretty good delivery, mainly with the staging and all these pyrotechnics.

2) ireland – Sarah McTernan performing "22"

elaborate to follow such a strong performance, chiefly when your personal music is so lacklustre. The production is quality sufficient nonetheless it's no longer particuarly impressed.

three) Moldova – Anna Odobescu performing "dwell"

Love the dress, very Mrs Havisham from high-quality Expectations. I'm guessing the music is set her begging her groom now not to jilt her at the altar. once more, terrific staging and he or she's getting some good belts in the refrain. 

4) Switzerland – Luca Hanni performing "She bought Me"

There's a lot of drive on him as his country hasn't made it via to the remaining on the grounds that 2014. He's off to a very good beginning with slightly of a "missing Jonas brother" component occurring. Very catchy music.

5) Latvia – Carousel performing "That evening"

She's already drawing comparisons to Lorde with a surprising, bohemian seem and tender, sultry beginning. here's how you do the slow-tempo quantity at Eurovision, an arresting and beautifully delivered efficiency.

6) Romania – Ester Peony performing "On a Sunday"

one more amazing performance by using a female vocalist, with brilliant dramatic staging and an astonishing vocal performance.

7) Denmark – Leonora performing "Love is forever" 

right we've received Leonora performing "Love is continuously" for Denmark now. This former ice-skating champion (yep) has a superbly whimsical number and sweet, lilting vocals to sing it with. She appeared a little wobbly getting up that ladder, although, and the viewers could be wondering why she was singing in French all the way through certain bits.

eight) Sweden – John Lundvik performing "Too Late For Love"

this is an uplifting, soulful track with gospel vibes, I'm a fan! He looks very assured on stage and, wow, this 4-girl gospel choir has long past down a deal with with the audience in Tel Aviv. Lot of applause, cheering. truly going via to the ultimate.

Eurovision 2019: Sweden operate all over semi-finals in Israel

9) Austria – Paenda performing "Limits"

Oh expensive. the first efficiency at this yr's competition that definitely appeared to go incorrect. Of path, there turned into all the time going to be loads of drive given Austria gained Eurovision in 2014 with Conchita Wurst, but even so... lacklustre, pretty boring and sometimes rather off-key. 

10) Croatia – Roko Blažević performing "The Dream"

It's a bit a great deal. Even for Eurovision. Did he really need the large golden wings? He's hitting some decent notes even though, and that chorus is basically pretty catchy. 

11) Malta – Michela tempo performing "Chameleon"

Dare I say it, a spotlight? now not probably the most creative or fashioned tune, however loads of fun and tremendously catchy.

12) Lithuania – Jurij Veklenko performing "Run with the Lions"

After a really mighty beginning the competition seems to have lost a few of its momentum. This may be an X-component performance, such is the blandness of the lyrics and the singer himself. 

leftCreated with Sketch. rightCreated with Sketch. 1/10 10. "Molitva" – Marija Šerifović (Serbia, 2007)

Let's get down to enterprise. Making their debut at Eurovision, Serbia later romped home as champions with this high-drama ballad. In an era when extravagance had smartly and in reality taken hang, the staging was certainly naked. The orchestra, the belting, the key alterations, and the 5 backing singers dressed as a go between elegance queens and security guards all make this suppose like the climax of a contemporary opera.

Getty

2/10 9. "challenging Rock Hallelujah" – Lordi (Finland, 2006)

Has Eurovision ever considered anything else adore it, earlier than or for the reason that? Finland's first win after 45 years of participating got here at the hands of a heavy steel band wearing monster costumes – but this rating isn't based on novelty by myself. at the back of the growled vocals and pyrotechnics, "hard Rock Hallelujah" is a stunning exceptional track – even for people that in general can't stand this variety of aspect. The backing vocals on the chorus are a specific excessive. It also offered a welcome departure from the high-octane pop-fest that many accept as true with Eurovision to be.

Getty

3/10 8. "grasp Me Now" – Johnny Logan (eire, 1987)

The jewel in the crown of eire's seven wins is this corker from Logan, who again looking each inch the matinee idol in his pristine white swimsuit. It's the form of big vigor ballad that fist-clenching changed into made for, and his big build on "i will all the time love you" should still win one more prize for essentially the most bold key change.

Rex

4/10 7. "Fångad av en stormvind" – Carola (Sweden, 1991)

one in every of Sweden's most regularly occurring entries, Carola is successful from the second she bounds on stage and lets out that first "Woah-oh-oh!". Her voice is flawless, the key alterations are extraordinary, and who doesn't recognize a wind laptop? a further slice of Scandi pop perfection.

AFP/Getty

5/10 6. "Making Your mind Up" – Bucks Fizz (united kingdom, 1981)

A excessive power pop tune with colourful young performers and enjoyable choreography – "Making Your intellect Up" is the stuff that Eurovision is made from. The famous second when the boys ripped off the girls' skirts simplest to demonstrate shorter skirts underneath them is likely one of the competition's most famous moments. a number one hit checklist throughout Europe that 12 months, the track remains as infectious these days as ever.

PA

6/10 5. "Ne partez pas sans moi" – Céline Dion (Switzerland, 1988)

Celine Dion become just two decades old when she came to overseas consideration with this performance. The music itself is staggering – a French chanson priceless of Edith Piaf, with a a bit twee drum computing device stepping up the beat for a bop of a chorus. This all took region before Celine changed into converted into an ageless power ballad queen (see the festival-esque hair and outfit), nevertheless it's interesting to hear how her vocals had been sheer perfection even then. Oh, and the arm choreography become well on its way too.

EPA

7/10 four. "Love Shine a light" – Katrina and the Waves (uk, 1997)

The pleasing fusion of hammond organ, tambourines, hand clapping and the quasi-spiritual lyrics themselves make this think like an excellent hymn – and Katrina really takes it to church. one of the optimum scorers in modern instances, this was the remaining time the united kingdom gained the competition, and it got here the day after Labour's landslide 1997 election victory. What a time to be alive.

PA

8/10 3. "upward push Like a Phoenix" – Conchita Wurst (Austria, 2014)

Conchita's performance had every thing you could want in a Eurovision efficiency. stylish and fierce , "upward thrust Like a Phoenix" could fit the most desirable Bond theme, and is effortlessly one of the crucial timeless of the entire winners. The massive band provides to the glamour of all of it, and brings the goosebumps on that dramatic orchestral upward push towards the last refrain. It was an impressive moment for LGBT+ visibility, too; the music's theme of conquer adversity secured it as an anthem for life's survivors.

AFP/Getty

9/10 2. "Euphoria" – Loreen (Sweden, 2012)

It's hard to select some other fresh winner that comes as near contemporary chart toppers as "Euphoria" – a dance hit that many modern pop stars would kill for. Written through Sweden's Thomas G:son – who has produced more than 90 songs for Eurovision opponents across numerous countries – "Euphoria" is built on suave pop formulation. The chorus itself is anthemic perfection, however when Loreen tacks on: "We're going up, up, up..." it strikes gold. The Kate Bush-esque performance turned into an introduced bonus.

Getty

10/10 1. "Waterloo" – ABBA (Sweden, 1974)

ABBA burst onto the stage on the 1974 competitors, kickstarting Sweden's international acceptance as masters of pop. Early adopters of the kind of kitsch which might come to typify the show, ABBA used their platform to present a taste of the cultural phenomenon they would go on to become. From the opening piano build to the swap between a minor bridge and major chorus, to the catchy hooks littered during, "Waterloo" is a masterclass in the way to write a hit, and the song rightly went on to turn into one of the vital most effective-selling singles of all time. ABBA continue to impact Eurovision contestants to today, and when you may also have one more frequent, "Waterloo" is a tune on which most americans can agree is an outstanding gold basic. We promise to like you continuously greater.

AFP/Getty

1/10 10. "Molitva" – Marija Šerifović (Serbia, 2007)

Let's get all the way down to enterprise. Making their debut at Eurovision, Serbia later romped domestic as champions with this excessive-drama ballad. In an era when extravagance had well and in fact taken cling, the staging become chiefly naked. The orchestra, the belting, the important thing adjustments, and the 5 backing singers dressed as a cross between splendor queens and protection guards all make this think like the climax of a contemporary opera.

Getty

2/10 9. "difficult Rock Hallelujah" – Lordi (Finland, 2006)

Has Eurovision ever considered anything like it, earlier than or when you consider that? Finland's first win after forty five years of taking part came at the hands of a heavy steel band wearing monster costumes – however this rating is not based on novelty alone. in the back of the growled vocals and pyrotechnics, "difficult Rock Hallelujah" is an attractive remarkable tune – even for those who generally can't stand this variety of thing. The backing vocals on the chorus are a particular high. It additionally supplied a welcome departure from the high-octane pop-fest that many consider Eurovision to be.

Getty

three/10 8. "dangle Me Now" – Johnny Logan (ireland, 1987)

The jewel in the crown of eire's seven wins is this corker from Logan, who again searching every inch the matinee idol in his pristine white swimsuit. It's the type of massive vigor ballad that fist-clenching was made for, and his huge construct on "i'll at all times love you" may still win one other prize for probably the most bold key trade.

Rex

four/10 7. "Fångad av en stormvind" – Carola (Sweden, 1991)

certainly one of Sweden's most usual entries, Carola is successful from the moment she bounds on stage and lets out that first "Woah-oh-oh!". Her voice is flawless, the key changes are wonderful, and who doesn't recognize a wind computer? another slice of Scandi pop perfection.

AFP/Getty

5/10 6. "Making Your mind Up" – Bucks Fizz (uk, 1981)

A high energy pop track with vibrant younger performers and enjoyable choreography – "Making Your intellect Up" is the stuff that Eurovision is made from. The famous moment when the boys ripped off the girls' skirts best to show shorter skirts below them is one of the competitors's most famous moments. a bunch one hit record across Europe that 12 months, the song continues to be as infectious these days as ever.

PA

6/10 5. "Ne partez pas sans moi" – Céline Dion (Switzerland, 1988)

Celine Dion was just 20 years old when she came to international attention with this performance. The track itself is remarkable – a French chanson priceless of Edith Piaf, with a slightly twee drum machine stepping up the beat for a bop of a refrain. This all took vicinity before Celine changed into transformed into an ageless vigor ballad queen (see the competition-esque hair and outfit), but it's thrilling to hear how her vocals had been sheer perfection even then. Oh, and the arm choreography changed into smartly on its means too.

EPA

7/10 four. "Love Shine a light-weight" – Katrina and the Waves (uk, 1997)

The eye-catching fusion of hammond organ, tambourines, hand clapping and the quasi-spiritual lyrics themselves make this suppose like a glorious hymn – and Katrina actually takes it to church. probably the most highest scorers in modern times, this changed into the last time the united kingdom won the competition, and it came the day after Labour's landslide 1997 election victory. What a time to be alive.

PA

eight/10 three. "upward push Like a Phoenix" – Conchita Wurst (Austria, 2014)

Conchita's efficiency had everything you may need in a Eurovision efficiency. dependent and fierce abruptly, "upward push Like a Phoenix" may fit the most suitable Bond theme, and is without difficulty probably the most timeless of all of the winners. The large band provides to the glamour of it all, and brings the goosebumps on that dramatic orchestral upward thrust against the final refrain. It was an impressive second for LGBT+ visibility, too; the music's theme of overcome adversity secured it as an anthem for life's survivors.

AFP/Getty

9/10 2. "Euphoria" – Loreen (Sweden, 2012)

It's hard to decide on every other contemporary winner that comes as near modern chart toppers as "Euphoria" – a dance hit that many modern pop stars would kill for. Written by Sweden's Thomas G:son – who has produced greater than ninety songs for Eurovision rivals throughout distinctive international locations – "Euphoria" is developed on artful pop formulation. The chorus itself is anthemic perfection, but when Loreen tacks on: "We're going up, up, up..." it strikes gold. The Kate Bush-esque efficiency was an added bonus.

Getty

10/10 1. "Waterloo" – ABBA (Sweden, 1974)

ABBA burst onto the stage on the 1974 competition, kickstarting Sweden's foreign reputation as masters of pop. Early adopters of the sort of kitsch which might come to typify the display, ABBA used their platform to offer a taste of the cultural phenomenon they'd go on to become. From the outlet piano build to the swap between a minor bridge and important chorus, to the catchy hooks littered all over, "Waterloo" is a masterclass in the way to write successful, and the music rightly went on to turn into some of the most desirable-selling singles of all time. ABBA proceed to have an impact on Eurovision contestants to today, and while you may additionally have a further common, "Waterloo" is a song on which most people can agree is a superb gold basic. We promise to love you invariably extra.

AFP/Getty

13) Russia – Sergey Lazarev performing "Scream"

i was expecting an upbeat pop number however got a decidedly menacing ballad as an alternative. Sergey regrettably came across as a Sweeney Todd figure singing to his victims. The track itself became carried out neatly, very dramatic, however it gave me the inaccurate type of chills.

14) Albania – Jonida Maliqi performing Ktheju tokës"

Very relocating, with just the appropriate quantity of depth (did you hear that Sergey?). also she looks fully miraculous in that sweeping costume, with dramatic eye makeup and tattoos.

15) Norway – KEiiNO performing "Spirit in the Sky"

right, here's another one of the vital favourites: KEiiNO performing "Spirit within the Sky". one among their singer's appears a bit of like Gary Barlow from Take That. but here is exceptional, and they've received the group dancing too. Given probably the most largest breakout pop stars of 2018 (Sigrid) hails from Norway, it's now not miraculous to see such a powerful pop effort.

16) The Netherlands – Duncan Laurence performing "Arcade"

I'm nevertheless now not satisfied here is a good sufficient track to win the competitors, even though it's truly the typical thus far among lovers (in line with our Eurovision correspondent Rob Holley). To me, it's a reasonably simple piano ballad.

17) North Macedonia – Tamara Todevska performing "Proud"

I'm sceptical concerning the empowering vibe this track is going for, it's a little obtrusive, but then the song isn't really respectable sufficient to face by itself. a superb vocal performance however no longer an awful lot else. 

18) Azerbaijan – Chingiz performing "reality"

here's ok, although he in reality should still have left that leather vest at home. excellent falsetto on the refrain and a enjoyable digital beat pulsing through. Some very magnificent, natural vocals on the refrain. 

The liveblog is now closed 

exhibit newest update 2019-05-16T18:15:05.313Z

hi there and welcome to The impartial's liveblog of the second Eurovision semi-ultimate 2019!

2019-05-16T18:15:05.323Z

howdy and welcome to The impartial's liveblog of the second Eurovision semi-ultimate 2019!

2019-05-16T18:17:07.246Z

i could be bringing you the entire newest information, updates and everyday hilarity, along with expert commentary from our Eurovision Correspondent in Tel Aviv, Rob Holley.

2019-05-16T18:20:08.533Z simply IN. Rob has acquired confirmation that Madonna should be performing all over the final this Saturday, following doubts after organisers mentioned she had yet to sign a contract to appear on the Eurovision stage.  2019-05-16T18:21:43.753Z This turned into just tweeted by way of Israel's respectable state broadcaster  2019-05-16T18:38:38.076Z

certainly one of our absolute well-known performances final nighttime changed into Iceland's Hatari, a bondage-carrying neighborhood who placed on rather the monitor...

2019-05-16T18:55:15.786Z Rob Holley 🅰️ on TwitterTwitter"are living from the Eurovision Press Centre! It takes 25 minutes to get a beer/coffee - fingers crossed Amsterdam or Reykjavik rectifies this for subsequent year because some of these performances are improved via a short bev 😘👌" 2019-05-16T19:04:13.003Z

As you doubtless be aware of, 18 international locations are competing in tonight's competitors together with The Netherlands, Russia, Sweden, Norway and Azerbaijan. but simply 10 will make it through to the ultimate this weekend on 18 may additionally.

2019-05-16T19:08:33.110Z

First up is Armenia's contestant. Ooh here is very dark and mysterious and atmospheric. first rate vocals, too!

2019-05-16T19:09:49.090Z

i'm enjoying this however she does appear slightly like me at karaoke after about 10 pints.

2019-05-16T19:12:09.860Z

subsequent up is ireland's Sarah McTernan performing "22" (not the Taylor Swift track). Sarah became mentored by means of S membership 7's Rachel Stevens (yep), whereas the track is a sultry yet upbeat pop quantity.

2019-05-16T19:13:45.150Z

Hmmm i could have spoken too quickly, this is pretty lacklustre.

2019-05-16T19:18:50.366Z

here's Moldova's Anna Odobescu performing "live". Love the dress, very Mrs Havisham from awesome Expectations. i'm guessing the track is ready her begging her groom no longer to jilt her on the altar. once more, excellent staging and he or she's getting some good belts in the chorus. 

2019-05-16T19:20:19.543Z

subsequent up is one of the favourites, Switzerland's Luca Hanni performing "She received Me". there may be lots of drive on him as his nation hasn't made it via to the last on the grounds that 2014. he is off to a great beginning with just a little of a "missing Jonas brother" aspect going on.

The Eurovision final takes location on 18 may additionally at 8pm on BBC One.

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