Fun Facts About Eurovision Song Contest: A Journey Through Music and History

Fun Facts About Eurovision Song Contest: Eurovision, which is among the most persistent and well-known worldwide music competitions, has been entertaining people for over 60 years. It now forms part of Europe’s culture through its captivating performances, rich history and a tinge of controversy.

Here are 11 interesting fun facts about Eurovision Song Contest that explore its evolution as well as the milestones and personalities behind it.

1. Concept of Eurovision

Eurovision Song Contest was born in the mind of Marcel Bezencon, EBU Director in 1955. The first contest took place on May 24th 1956 in Lugano, Switzerland with solo artists from seven countries.

2. First Color Broadcast

The Eurovision Song Contest was first broadcasted in color in 1968 marking a momentous milestone for the contest.

3. Most Successful Winners

ABBA is Swedish pop group that holds the record for most successful Eurovision Song Contest winners having three wins plus two runners up positions.

4. Youngest ever winner

Belgian singer Sandra Kim became Eurovision’s youngest ever winner at just 13 years when she won the competition back in 1986.

5. Longest song ever played

The longest song ever played at the Eurovision was an Italian entry from 1957 called Corde Della Mia Chitarra which lasted five minutes and nine seconds.

6. Barefoot Winners

Five barefooted winners have graced Eurovision stage; they include: Sandie Shaw (1967), Sertab Erener (2003), Dima Bilan (2008), Loreen (2012), and Emmelie De Forest (2013).

7. Irish Dominance

Ireland has achieved more victories than any other country winning on seven different occasions to date.

8. Finland’s Long Wait

Finland had to wait forty four years before finally winning Eurovision with heavy metal band Lordi performing ‘Hard Rock Hallelujah’ in 2006.

9. Australia’s Participation

Australia was invited to take part in the contest as a goodwill gesture in 2015, since then it has become one of Eurovision’s regulars.

10. The ‘Big Five’

The ‘Big Five’ which include France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the UK are so called because these countries automatically qualify for the final round due to their large financial contributions to Eurovision song contest.

11. The Contest’s Popularity

The Eurovision Song Contest is watched by millions around the globe making it one of the most viewed non-sporting events worldwide.

In conclusion, Eurovision Song Contest illustrates how music can bring together people from different cultures and nations. This is demonstrated by its rich history, captivating performances and controversies that make it popular across the continents. Whether you are well-acquainted with Eurovision or just getting started on its world stage; this iconic music competition is known for its fun and excitement.