Eurovision, an international song competition orchestrated by the European Broadcasting Union, brings together a diverse array of countries, including most European nations and some unexpected participants like Australia. Amidst 37 captivating entries, only one will emerge victorious. As Eurovision kicks off on May 7th, here are my top five picks for potential champions of Eurovision 2024.
- . Armenia – “Jako”by Ladaniva
Strong contender this year. The song is very catchy and such a bop to listen to. Will have you getting up and dancing. A song about rebellion and being free, it’s a relatable bangers which deserves out spot at #5. The song goes into accepting one self and being true to yourself. Embracing who you are regardless of what others think. Alongside the amazing music, the music video is also stunning. The use of traditional Armenian clothing as well as the mix of modern and traditional Armenian living adds to the authenticity of the song.
- San Marino – “11:1” by MEGARA
An underrated gem. For sure one of the most unorthodox Eurovision songs this year. This rock song by Megara can be described as very explosive and fun to listen to. These types of entries make Eurovision so fun to watch because of the variety and uniqueness they bring. Though rock isn’t everyone’s thing, this entry still stands as a solid contender. The song follows the theme of redemption and coming back after rejection. The music video is very artsy and energetic, which makes me think their performance will just be as chaotic. Looking to see how far they’ll do.
- Luxembourg – “Fighter” by TALI
Definitely an underrated contender for this year. The song is very addictive and the vocals go very well with the beat. It’s about the will to keep going after getting beaten down, how one should preserve and keep going. The music video is also very pleasing to watch, with the choreography right on point. Though when I listen to it , I don’t think “Eurovision”, I do love the song and find it an amazing addition to Eurovision this year. It’s a great song that will have you bumping your head and that’s all that matters.
- Croatia – “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” by Baby Lasagna
For an entry not in its original language, it’s pretty good. Croatia stands as a very strong contender for winning this year. It reminds me a lot of Käärijä’s “Cha Cha Cha” from last year’s Eurovision. The song follows a man leaving his home and saying farewell. It’s energetic, catchy, and simple to follow. Another rock song that I feel like will really stand out this year. The Balkan elements in the music video are also very nice to see. Like the other’s on this list, it’s not generic pop spoken in English, it’s a song unique to its own culture, which is why it’s so good.
- Netherlands – “Europapa” by Joost Klein
And of course, at number #1, I have the man that will win Eurovision, Joost Klein and his song “Europapa”. Being described as “the anthem of Europe” , I love the vibrant energy. It really gives that “Eurovision vibe”. Winning in Malmö is not unthinkable. ‘Europapa’ is the second most streamed entry with 42 million streams, behind the Italian ‘La noia’, also a major contender.
Europapa is a tribute to Joost Klein’s father, who passed away. As a child, Joost watched the Eurovision Song Contest with his father on the couch. It’s a song about Europe for Europe and the artist, Joost Klein, does an amazing job portraying this. He brings a hardcore style to Eurovision by mixing together 2000’s pop/punk with eurodance. It’s not generic and boring, it’s unique, which is why I love it. As well as it being a message to Europe, it serves as a nice tribute to the artist’s parents, which adds a sweet touch.
Photo credits to Sarah Louise Bennett
