Everything You Need To Know About Eurovision 2024
Everyone’s favourite time of the year is finally here – Eurovision!
This year marks the 68th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest. It will take place in Malmö, Sweden, after the country’s victorious win in 2023 with Loreen’s epic song ‘Tattoo’. The grand finale will kick off on the 11th May, following two semi-finals on the 7th and 9th.
There are 37 countries taking part in this year’s contest. Russia is still barred, whilst Romania has opted to not participate this year. We will also see an entry from Luxembourg after a 31-year absence.
As per tradition, the ‘Big Five’ (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK), as well as last year’s winner automatically qualify for the final. The remaining 31 participating countries will go head to head to fill the other 20 places in the final show.
Following its hugely successful use last year, the Eurovision board has decided to keep ‘United By Music’ as the official slogan for the Eurovision Song Contest for this year, and all successive events as part of the Contest’s global brand strategy.
Now that we’ve got the essential updates out of the way, let’s take a look at the top bookie favourites to win this year’s edition of the Eurovision Song Contest!
Switzerland – Nemo – The Code
‘The Code’ is about Nemo’s journey of self discovery, and the freedom they gained from realising that they’re non binary. The bridge goes “Somewhere between the 0s and 1s, that‘s where I found my kingdom come.“, get it?
Not only is the code clever through its lyrics, but truly showcases Nemo’s creative flair and musical prowess. It’s got pop, it’s got drum and bass, it’s got some incredible high notes in true Eurovision fashion, and it’s even got a rap drop which feels like it came out of nowhere, but works so seamlessly. What starts as a sweet, theatrical beginning, quickly progresses to a banger you won’t forget any time soon.
Lottoland odds: 3.10
Croatia – Baby Lasagna – Rim Tim Tagi Dim
First thing’s first, “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” doesn’t mean anything. However, the rest of the lyrics are chock full of meaning. Croatia has recently been described as a country of emigration by the European Union, as more and more young people are moving abroad to seek better opportunities. This song explores the struggles and anxiety of leaving, and the effects it has on the people left behind.
Croatia is clearly hoping to win over the many Käärijä fans from last year, as the wardrobe, front man, and overall vibe is very reminiscent of Finland’s iconic 2023 entry. The music itself has a rap-metal verse which progresses to a catchy chorus echoing early 2000’s pop rock.
Lottoland odds: 4.40
Italy – Angelina Mango – La Noia
Angelina Mango’s “La Noia” won the Festival di Sanremo earlier this year, and with good reason. It’s a catchy pop song, infused with traditional elements that’s sure to get you moving.
“La Noia” translates to ‘The Boredom’ At first glance, the lyrics come off as Angelina Mango trying to break free from a monotonous life, but the song’s feminist undertones quickly come to surface, as she paints a picture of women leading a trapped and boring life in order to conform to social norms. Likely to be well received among Gen Z audiences, it’s giving woke, it’s giving Barbie movie era.
Lottoland odds: 5.80
Ukraine – alyona alyona & Jerry Heil – Teresa & Maria
Born out of a collaboration between two of the country’s most popular artists, ‘Teresa & Maria’ is an attempt to inspire hope, using the figures of Mother Teresa and the Virgin Mary.
The dynamic duo hope to spread the message that greatness resides within all of us. The iconic line ‘all the divas were born as human beings’, emphasises that we all come from the same beginnings, but must seek out and create happiness for ourselves.
The music feels empowering and hopeful, featuring many classic Eurovision elements. A very welcomed rap drop from alyona alyona, Ukraine’s most popular female rapper, adds creative flair and style to this already powerful track.
Lottoland odds: 9.60
Netherlands – Joost Klein – Europapa
Europapa is undoubtedly one of the most feel-good entries in this year’s competition, bringing the retro-awkward humour that Joost is known and loved for. It’s funny, silly, sweet and loads of fun. It’s a naughties Europop banger that will have everybody bopping along. It even features a hardcore stomping drop that will have all the 90s ravers reminiscing of the golden days.
Europapa is a tribute to Klein’s late father, who left him with an ‘expansive view of the world’. It tells the story of a young orphan who travels Europe to find himself. Along the way, he experiences all the different European cultures. It highlights many perks of living within Europe, and gives a message of solidarity. Additionally, name-dropping so many of their neighbours is likely to earn some votes.
Could this be the next European anthem? Probably not, but it’s a damn fun song.
Lottoland odds: 5.40
France – Slimane – Mon amour
A proper French classic, in true Eurovision fashion. ‘Mon Amour’ is a heartfelt ballad, described as an “ode to romance and love”. The lyrics beautifully paint a picture of someone who is hopelessly in love, but whose lover has left Paris after a fall out. It explores the feelings of loss and longing, as our protagonist questions whether his undying love is reciprocated.
Slimane’s talents take centre stage in this song, as he proves to be an incredibly captivating performer. Fitting in with much of Slimane’s music, which is mainly based on love, he has stated that his song is a “love letter to European hearts”. His passionate delivery and incredibly strong vocals, paired with the beautifully soul-stirring melody, make this a moving and unforgettable performance which is likely to be well received by the juries.
Lottoland odds: 19.00
Greece – Marina Satti – Zari
An entry to watch out for! Marina Satti’s “Zari” skillfully blends ethnic and traditional Greek sounds with contemporary urban music. The song features verses that hint at Indian influences, leading into a chorus rich with Greek elements, all woven together with modern R&B vibes.
Through ‘Zari’, Satti aims to portray the “real characteristics” of young Greek people and their culture, bridging the gap between old and new Greek traditions. The lyrics explore themes of love and the inherent risks of life, likened to the unpredictability of rolling dice.
With its catchy and lively tune, together with Santi’s vibrant energy and ability to transcend musical genres, ‘Zari’ is sure to turn some heads in this year’s contest.
Lottoland odds: 30.00
Roll over Wednesday, it’s Doomsday now.
A Little Eurovision Treat
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Who would have thought that Eurovision night could be even more exciting than it already is?
So, gather your crew, fill up the snack bowls, and get ready to cheer on your favourites as the Eurovision stage bursts into life once again!
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