Eurovision Feed

Last remaining Eurovision Song Contest 2023 tickets!

2023-04-21T08:59:20+00:00

As the stage build nears completion, the remaining tickets for each of the nine live shows which make up the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 are set to be released. Tickets will go on sale at 12:00 (midday) BST (13:00 CET) on Monday 24th April.

Tickets will only be available to purchase at Ticketmaster UK regardless of the country you are booking from, and you can only purchase tickets for one show at a time. In line with previous Eurovision Song Contests, prices range from £30 to £380 dependant on show and seat.

You must have a Ticketmaster UK account to purchase tickets, and fans are encouraged to create their account in advance of Monday 24th April.

There are a limited number of remaining tickets for all nine shows:

Semi-Final 1

Evening Preview on Monday 8th May at 8pm, Afternoon Preview on Tuesday 9th May at 1:30pm, and Live Show on Tuesday 9th May at 8pm.

Semi-Final 2

Evening Preview on Wednesday 10th May at 8pm, Afternoon Preview on Thursday 11th May at 1:30pm, and Live Show on Thursday 11th May at 8pm.

Grand Final

Evening Preview on Friday 12th May at 8pm, Afternoon Preview on Saturday 13th May at 1pm, and Live Show on Saturday 13th May at 8pm.

Outside of the arena live shows, a whole raft of free events will offer people in Liverpool and across the UK the opportunity to experience the joy of Eurovision. These include a number of UK cities staging their own Grand Final live events; over 500 cinema screens set to show the Grand Final live; Euro Festival in Liverpool - a spectacular two-week cultural takeover, starting from 1 May and Eurovision Village – also in the city – set to host stars from the world of pop, gospel and opera over nine days in a "true celebration of music and unity"

Check out the terms and conditions here and follow @bbceurovision for updates!

Eurovision 2023: Grand Final performances

2023-04-17T07:32:19+00:00

As Eurovision draws closer, it’s time to reveal which guest acts will be joining us in Liverpool!

We’ll see magical performances from last year’s winners Kalush Orchestra, as well as our spaceman Sam Ryder and we’ll be treated to a Flag Parade packed with Eurovision icons, plus a celebration of Liverpool’s musical heritage.

The Grand Final for this year’s Contest, hosted in Liverpool on behalf of Ukraine, will open with last year’s winners, Kalush Orchestra, and a powerful performance titled ‘Voices of a New Generation’. Kalush Orchestra captured the hearts of Eurovision viewers around the world last year – they're back to kick off the 2023 Grand Final with a performance that's sure to be unforgettable including their smash hit winning song ‘Stefania’.

During the Eurovision Flag Parade of all 26 Grand Finalists, viewers will see a unique performance by some iconic past Ukrainian Eurovision contestants. Get ready for a new twist on their Eurovision entries weaved with British classics when GO_A, Jamala, Tina Karol, and Verka Serduchka take to the stage and remind us all why they became Eurovision icons.

For the first interval performance, during which voting across Europe and the world takes place, the UK’s very own spaceman Sam Ryder will make his triumphant return to the Eurovision stage after leading the UK’s biggest success in last year’s Contest for over two decades. With his achievements since his stratospheric Eurovision 2022 performance of ‘SPACE MAN’ including a UK number 1 debut album, a nomination for ‘Best Breakthrough Act’ at the BRITs, and a spot on the line-up for the Platinum Party at the Palace for last year’s Platinum Jubilee, Grand Final viewers can expect an incredible sight guaranteed to surprise.

The final interval act ‘The Liverpool Songbook’, is a celebration of the host city’s incredible contribution to the world of pop music. The �鶹Լ�� have brought together six iconic past Eurovision acts – Italy's Mahmood, Israel's Netta, Iceland's Daði Freyr, Sweden's Cornelia Jakobs, Duncan Laurence from the Netherlands – plus Liverpool's very own Sonia, celebrating 30 years since she came second at Eurovision in 1993.

Liverpool has produced some of the world’s most famous and beloved songs in history: these Eurovision legends will all put their own spin on some classic hits.

Kate Phillips, �鶹Լ��’s Director of Unscripted, says: “What a way to bring in the winner of the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest. These live performances, with their twists on iconic Eurovision moments and countless creative collaborations, will ensure that we’re in for an utterly unforgettable Grand Final!”

Eurovision 2022 winners Kalush Orchestra say: “We've been looking forward to performing in Liverpool ever since it was announced as host last year. The city has a world-renowned musical heritage and we're delighted to finally be able to announce what an honour it will be for us to be there.

“While we're sad that we couldn't bring the Eurovision Song Contest back to our home country, we're really grateful to the UK for hosting this party on our behalf. We will perform for everyone in Ukraine to remind us that better days and our country’s victory is ahead, as well as to show the world what Ukraine is fighting for.”

Eurovision 2022 runner-up Sam Ryder says: “What an honour to be invited back to the Eurovision stage for a second time! I can’t wait to be back amongst the beautiful chaos of it all and to watch the incredible artists perform this time around, while bringing you a special performance of our own. Big love!”.

The Eurovision 2023 Grand Final takes place on Saturday 13th May at 8pm and will be broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer.

Make sure you’re following @bbceurovision on socials for all the latest Eurovision news!

The UK’s Eurovision 2023 entry is Mae Muller!

2023-03-09T08:30:00+00:00

It’s with great excitement that we can reveal that the artist who’ll be representing the UK at Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool is… Mae Muller!

Mae says: ”I'm SO excited to participate in Eurovision this year and represent the UK! I've loved watching Eurovision all my life, so to compete in such a massive music competition is simply brilliant.

“I’m a huge fan of so many of the artists that have found success at Eurovision, from ABBA to Måneskin! Sam Ryder was so amazing last year and proved the UK can be back on the left-hand side of the leaderboard!”

Having signed to Capitol Records UK (part of Universal Music Group), Mae continues to stand out. In 2022, she was nominated at the MTV EMAs and VMAs. Since then, her music has reached over two billion streams and 5.5 million monthly listeners on Spotify.

Mae co-wrote ‘I Wrote A Song’ with BRIT nominated songwriter Lewis Thompson (David Guetta, Joel Corry, and Raye - ‘Bed’) and Karen Poole, who has written for Kylie Minogue, Lily Allen, David Guetta and Alisha’s Attic. She explains: “I wrote, ‘I Wrote A Song’, a few months ago when I was going through a hard time and wanted to feel empowered about relationships, so for it to be chosen for this year’s UK Eurovision song is honestly a dream!”

Watch Mae Muller’s official music video for ‘I Wrote A Song’ here.

Don’t miss the first exclusive interview with Mae tonight (Thursday 9th March) - ‘Eurovision 2023: Meet the UK Act’ starts at 8:55PM on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer with Scott Mills.

We’re wishing Mae all the best at this year’s contest and can’t wait to see her performance! Follow @bbceurovision on socials for all the latest Eurovision news and to join Mae on her journey to the contest in Liverpool.

Meet our Eurovision 2023 family!

2023-02-22T08:47:00+00:00

We are pleased to announce our presenting and commentary line-up including Graham Norton, Julia Sanina, Hannah Waddingham, Alesha Dixon, Timur Miroshnychenko, Sam Quek, Mel Giedroyc, Scott Mills, Rylan and Claire Sweeney.

Presenting the Grand Final (13th May) to a global audience of 160 million will be Eurovision legend Graham Norton, Ukrainian singer, composer and frontwoman of The HARDKISS alternative band, Julia Sanina, Emmy Award-winning actor, Hannah Waddingham, and singer-songwriter, pop star and TV presenter, Alesha Dixon.

Presenting the two live Semi-Finals (9th and 11th May) from Liverpool will be the trio of musical superstars Julia, Hannah, and Alesha.

Ukrainian broadcaster Timur Miroshnychenko will be the Eurovision Correspondent in Liverpool, appearing in VT inserts during the live shows plus giving live insights from Ukraine’s commentary box in the Liverpool Arena. Alongside Liverpudlian presenter, Sam Quek, he will front the Opening Ceremony live stream on the official Eurovision Song Contest YouTube Channel.

For the Grand Final commentary on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer, Graham Norton and actor and comedian Mel Giedroyc will take turns in the commentary box to bring those watching at home their unique and expert views on the 2023 acts.

For the first time in the UK’s Eurovision Song Contest history, both Semi-Finals will be live on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer, with radio DJs and Eurovision experts, Scott Mills and Rylan bringing UK audiences their colourful and insightful commentary.

Bringing the contest closer to audiences in Merseyside will be a special commentary team on �鶹Լ�� Radio Merseyside, including Claire Sweeney and the winner of The Voice of Eurovision talent search, currently underway to discover new Scouse talent.

Kate Phillips, �鶹Լ��’s Director of Unscripted, says: “The �鶹Լ�� is thrilled to have such a talented line-up bringing the Eurovision Song Contest from Liverpool - on behalf of Ukraine - to the world.

“One thing that truly unites us all is music, and we’re proud to have a team - who are well accustomed to the worlds of music, performing and live broadcasting - as part of our Eurovision presenting family.

“It will be a remarkable moment for the �鶹Լ�� to deliver two huge pinnacles in this year’s broadcasting calendar, the King’s Coronation and Eurovision, within the same week.” The Grand and Semi Finals will be produced by �鶹Լ�� Studios.

The Eurovision Family are all ‘United By Music’

Graham Norton is a Eurovision Song Contest legend who has been commentating on the Contest for the UK since 2009. His multi-award winning �鶹Լ�� show, The Graham Norton Show sees Graham chatting regularly to the world’s biggest music stars and Hollywood A-listers.

Julia Sanina is a Ukrainian singer, composer and frontwoman of The HARDKISS alternative band (winners of numerous YUNA Ukrainian Music Awards; 18-time award winners, five of which are for the best rock band of Ukraine and MTV Europe award nominees for "Best Ukrainian Act").

Hannah Waddingham won an Emmy Award for her role in Ted Lasso, has been nominated for three Olivier Awards and has starred in West End and Broadway musicals (Spamalot, The Wizard of Oz, Into The Woods, Kiss Me Kate and Space Family Robinson), additional credits include Hocus Pocus 2, Game of Thrones, Sex Education, Willow and the upcoming Tom Jones limited series.

Alesha Dixon, formerly in chart-topping band, Mis-Teeq - who had two top-ten albums and seven consecutive top-ten singles – is also a hugely successful solo artist, Alesha is an experienced �鶹Լ�� TV presenter – fronting Comic Relief and The Greatest Dancer, judging Strictly Come Dancing and ITV’s Britain’s Got Talent.

Timur Miroshnychenko has commentated on Eurovision in Ukraine since 2007 and was a host on the 2017 show from Kyiv. He also presented Junior Eurovision in 2009 and 2013.

Mel Giedroyc, Rylan and Scott Mills have been involved in Eurovision for almost 25 years cumulatively and are highly experienced live broadcasters with Scott and Rylan hosting their own shows on �鶹Լ�� Radio 2. Mel cut her teeth on Light Lunch in the 90s, alongside hosting the award-winning Have I Got News For You. She has also fronted Let’s Sing and Dance for Comic Relief and has presented with Graham Norton on Let it Shine and Children in Need.

Bringing a unique Scouse perspective to proceedings are Liverpudlians Claire Sweeney and Sam Quek. Performer, TV presenter and actor Claire trained at the Elliot-Clarke Theatre School in Liverpool. Her first major TV role was as Linsey Corkhill in Brookside and since then she has gone on to perform in many musicals including Chicago, alongside her TV presenting career. Liverpool born and Wirral based Sam is a former Great Britain Hockey player who won gold at the 2016 Rio Olympics. She has presented numerous high-profile sports programmes and is currently team captain on A Question of Sport as well as regularly hosting �鶹Լ�� One’s Morning Live.

Hear from the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 family

Broadcaster, comedian and author, Graham Norton, says: “It’s no secret how much I adore Eurovision, I truly believe it’s the greatest show on earth and every year that I’m involved it’s a huge honour. This year is even more special and I personally feel a big responsibility to make our Ukrainian colleagues proud. Alongside presenting the Grand Final to the world, I just couldn’t resist the opportunity to get back into the commentary box for those watching in the UK!”

Julia Sanina was a Dancing with the Stars finalist and judge on The X-Factor in Ukraine. In 2016, her band, The HARDKISS, took part in the national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest and placed second overall. She was elected by the Ukrainian public to be a judge on Ukraine's Eurovision national selection show (Vidbir). She says: "I am thrilled to present the Eurovision Song Contest Semi-Finals and Grand Final. I’m so excited to showcase Ukrainian culture and creativity, and to help put on a show to make my country proud. I can’t wait to get to Liverpool and meet the fans and the rest of the Eurovision family."

Internationally renowned actor, Emmy winner, and Golden Globe nominee Hannah Waddingham, says: “There’s something really special about Eurovision which is why I’ve been an avid fan for years - from the camaraderie of all the acts backstage, to the epic scale of the show. It’s one of the world’s greatest music festivals, but this year, perhaps more than ever, it is such a great honour to be standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine, a country which has carried itself with such strength and unity. It is my great privilege to join Eurovision this year of all years.”

TV personality and BRIT Award nominated musician, Alesha Dixon says: “I’ve performed all over the world and there is just something about the buzz and anticipation of a live show that can’t be rivaled. Eurovision delivers that excitement, creativity and talent, but on a vast, global scale. I remember watching the Eurovision Song Contest on the TV when I was small, so to be there bringing the Grand Final and Semi Finals to people watching across the world is HUGE.”

Ukrainian commentator for Eurovision 2023, Timur Miroshnychenko, says: “I’ve been part of the Ukrainian Eurovision family for almost twenty years and it’s always such a special event, uniting us all by music. I am delighted to be the commentary voice of Ukraine from Liverpool, bringing Eurovision fans, new and existing, all the action from the arena and no doubt some behind the scenes exclusives too!”

Actor and comedian Mel Giedroyc says: “I’ve been a fan of Eurovision since I was knee-high to Lulu and we are all in for a real treat come May! Whether you’re a Eurovision stalwart or a new viewer, I’ll be guiding you through every step of the way as we get to know the 2023 artists. This year is particularly special and I’m looking forward to taking to one of the best seats in the house and bringing the Eurovision banter with Mr Norton from the commentary box to those watching from their Eurovision parties in the UK.”

TV and �鶹Լ�� Radio presenter, Rylan, says: “From being part of the UK delegation since 2018, Eurovision has become such a big part of my life and I think the scale of it this year is going to be like nothing we’ve seen before. I’m so excited to be back in the commentators box to celebrate the United Kingdom hosting Ukraine’s party. It’s going to be an amazing year for Eurovision. I genuinely can’t wait."

�鶹Լ�� Radio host, Scott Mills says: “I’m so excited for this year’s Eurovision Semi-Finals on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer. I can’t wait to spend all week with Rylan and the team in Liverpool - the perfect city to host the biggest music event in the world.”

Liverpudlian performer, TV presenter and actor, Claire Sweeney, says: “I’m made up to be part of �鶹Լ�� Radio Merseyside’s Voice of Eurovision – I love Eurovision and I’m so excited that it’s coming to Liverpool. It’ll be the first time ever that people will be able to hear a Eurovision commentary in scouse – I can’t wait!”

Sam Quek, Liverpudlian TV presenter and Olympian says: “The fact that Eurovision has come to Liverpool is massive, this city has been home to me all my life and I just know we are going to put on a real spectacle for the world. Liverpool has always been a melting pot of cultures and ideas - I can’t wait to see how Ukrainian culture and creativity are woven in with our Scouse traditions! I’m very excited to bring you a Liverpudlian point of view straight from the Opening Ceremony.”

The Eurovision Song Contest 2023 stage revealed!

2023-02-02T09:58:00+00:00

We are excited to reveal an exclusive first look at the stage for Liverpool 2023!

In May, 37 acts will perform for a global audience of millions on the Eurovision stage. Julio Himede, the Set Designer for Eurovision 2023 has based his stage design on the principles of ‘togetherness, celebration and community’.

“The architecture takes inspiration from a wide hug, opening its arms to Ukraine, the show’s performers and guests from across the world. I focused on the cultural aspects and similarities between Ukraine, the UK and specifically Liverpool. From music, dance and art, to architecture and poetry.”

Julio, who has years of experience working on huge events like the GRAMMYs and the MTV EMAs, says: “It is our duty as designers to enhance performances through a compelling visual landscape, while capturing the heart and soul of the Eurovision Song Contest.”

Across more than 450 square metres of staging, this stunning set brings together another 220 square metres of independently moving and turning video screens, as well as over 700 video tiles integrated into the floor and more than 1500 metres of LED lights.

“We wanted a set design that people will remember for years,” says Andrew Cartmell, Executive Producer of the contest.

“It’s so important to us that the delegations have the greatest possible space to work with. We wanted to give them a set that has lots of options for staging.”

Speaking about the collaboration with Julio, he adds: “Julio is a joy to work with; he’s creative with really innovative designs. We reached out to him because he's got phenomenal credentials, so that we can all make this a fantastic set design for Liverpool 2023.”

As Eurovision draws closer, Julio describes the opportunity to design its set as ‘an honour’.

“It’s a thrill to know that such a diverse group of talented musicians will be performing on my stage. I’ve had a long history of being a fan of the show and as a young adult, I used to take notice of the impressive stage designs.

“I am excited to celebrate the future winner and to pass the creative baton to the next country.”

We can’t wait to see the artists of Eurovision 2023 perform on this amazing stage! What do you think of the design? Let us know below.

Eurovision Song Contest 2023 is United by Music

2023-01-31T06:58:00+00:00

The countdown is on and excitement is building.

Right now, the whole Eurovision team across the �鶹Լ��, along with our Ukrainian counterparts, Liverpool and all our other amazing partners are working together to deliver an unforgettable Eurovision Song Contest for 2023.

The TV shows will be truly special, and it is an honour and a privilege to hold them here in the UK on behalf of our colleagues in Ukraine. We will showcase Ukrainian culture while celebrating the best of British music and creativity and of course Liverpool!. It’s going to be spectacular - we believe it is after all, the greatest show on earth.

One of the most highly anticipated aspect of any Eurovision Song Contest is its visual identity. This sets the tone of the whole Contest and demonstrates the ambition of how it will play out on screens. Each year brings a fresh look and feel, with a unique slogan. It’s one of the first big steps in bringing Eurovision to life.

As a lifelong fan, I always find this ‘reveal’ to be a special moment in the Eurovision calendar. So, I am very proud and excited to announce our slogan for this year’s Contest is United by Music.

Music is such a fundamental part of our global commonality. Music unites us. It moves us, it lifts us up, it connects us. It’s a language we all speak. Eurovision is watched by 160 million people across the world. It is the ultimate celebration of music’s power.

The �鶹Լ�� has a very strong history of celebrating the power of music at unmissable and iconic moments. It’s a milestone in British broadcasting and one we are united to deliver with Ukraine.

And, in Liverpool, a city famed for its spirit and musicality, it’s an opportunity to bring the world together.

The new brand is a collaboration between creative agencies Superunion in the UK, and Starlight Creative in Ukraine. Working together, they have developed a visual identity that really celebrates this shared moment and represents music as a force for bringing people together. 160 million hearts beating as one. I think it’s very much reflective of the feelings that Eurovision brings to audiences across the world - joy, excitement and fun.

The typeface we’ve used is called ‘Penny Lane’, inspired by the twentieth-century cast-iron signs displaying Liverpool street names and a nod to the city’s rich musical heritage. And of course, the colours blue and yellow feature throughout accompanied by an excitable magenta.

You’ll see this rolled out across all of our Eurovision output and if you’re in Liverpool, expect to see it across the city too. It’s a vibrant brand that with a distinct Eurovision vibe - optimistic, celebratory, connective. It honours and celebrates Ukraine, and communicates what is unique about this year’s Contest.

So look out for our slogan and brand, sign up to all our �鶹Լ�� Eurovision social feeds, watch the allocation draw live on �鶹Լ�� Two and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer at 7.00pm and while you’re at it download the first episode of Eurovisioncast from �鶹Լ�� Sounds.

Here. We. Go!!!

What is the Handover and Allocation Draw?

2023-01-25T12:45:00+00:00

It’s the first event in the Eurovision calendar that officially marks the start of a brand new contest!

This year host city Liverpool have chosen the magnificent St. George’s Hall as the venue for a ceremony where the ‘official keys’ of Eurovision are handed over from the previous host to the next.

Italy put on the party last year, so on Tuesday 31st January, we’ll witness the Mayor of host city Turin passing over the keys (known as the insignia) to the Mayor of Liverpool.

Mayor Stefano Lo Russo will meet Mayor Joanne Anderson to offer some helpful hosting advice. We’ll also hear from some famous Ukrainian faces about what the country’s Eurovision win means to them.

If you’re new to the contest, let’s catch you up on the allocation part of the ceremony. 37 countries are taking part in Eurovision this year and during the draw, we’ll find out which Semi-Finals they’ll be performing in.

During the show, it will also be revealed in which Semi-Final the ‘Big 5’ (France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom) and 2022 winners Ukraine will vote in.

France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom are grouped together as the ‘Big 5’ as they are the countries that automatically get a Grand Final placing due to the contributions they make to the contest.

The remaining 31 acts will perform in two Semi-Finals with 10 countries from each show qualifying for the main event, the all-important Grand Final.

Expect plenty of Eurovision excitement during the live Handover and Allocation Draw with hosts AJ Odudu and Rylan! Don’t miss it on Tuesday 31st January from 7pm GMT on �鶹Լ�� Two and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer.

Watching from outside the UK? Stream it from 8pm CET on the official Eurovision YouTube channel.

This external content is available at its source: https://www.instagram.com/p/CnOo3PNg8P0/?hl=en

On the 31st January we are live from Liverpool for the Handover and Allocation Draw!

2023-01-10T08:57:00+00:00

2023 is the year of the Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom and the �鶹Լ�� kicks things off this month with the first event in the season. Presenters Rylan and AJ Odudu will welcome viewers to �鶹Լ�� Two and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer on January 31st at 7pm for the Handover and Allocation Draw.

Taking place in host city Liverpool and in front of a live, invited audience this exciting event will determine which country will compete in which Semi-Final of the Contest when it takes place in May as well as deciding which Semi-Final the ‘Big 5’ (Spain, United Kingdom, France, Germany, Italy) and 2022 winners Ukraine will vote in.

A total of 37 countries will take part in the Eurovision Song Contest 2023 which the �鶹Լ�� is hosting in the United Kingdom on behalf of 2022 winners Ukraine. Thirty-one countries will go into the draw for the Semi-Finals (May 9th and 11th) with 10 from each semi-final progressing to the Grand Final on May 13. The ‘Big 5’ and Ukraine automatically qualify to compete in the Grand Final.

AJ and Rylan will conduct the live draw assisted by young people from a local Liverpool school and members of the Ukrainian community who have settled in Liverpool since the outbreak of the conflict. The programme will also see the Mayor of 2022 Host City Turin, Stefano Lo Russo hand over the official keys of the Eurovision Song Contest, known as the Insignia, to the Mayor of Liverpool, Joanne Anderson and will be the night the 2023 theme and slogan is unveiled. Audiences can also follow the event as it unfolds with live text commentary on the �鶹Լ�� News website live page and on the official Eurovision You Tube channel.

Rylan said: “From being part of the UK delegation since 2018, Eurovision has become such a big part of my life. I’m so excited to be presenting the handover and allocation draw which symbolises the start of the Eurovision Song Contest 2023; the year in which the United Kingdom hosts Ukraine’s party. It’s going to be an amazing year for Eurovision. I genuinely can’t wait."

AJ Odudu said: “It’s so exciting to have the Eurovision Song Contest in the United Kingdom in 2023. New and existing fans are in for an event like no other come May with spectacular live shows on the �鶹Լ�� and a city take over in Liverpool, all with British creativity and Ukrainian culture at its core . I can’t wait to kick things off with the draw later this month.”

January 31st also sees the launch of the �鶹Լ��’s Eurovision podcast, Eurovisioncast, made by the team behind hit podcasts Newscast and Ukrainecast. Turning their attention to the biggest music contest in the world will be four hosts: Eurovision winner Måns Zelmerlöw; Eurovision fan, �鶹Լ�� Breakfast’s Nina Warhurst; �鶹Լ�� News’ Eurovision Reporter Daniel Rosney and Radio Merseyside presenter, Liverpudlian Ngunan Adamu. Eurovisioncast will bring the inside gossip on plans and unique insights on the competition. Listeners will also hear from former contestants, those set to take part in the 2023 Contest and celebrity fans. The weekly podcast will be available on �鶹Լ�� Sounds from January 31st and will be broadcast on �鶹Լ�� Radio 5 live and �鶹Լ�� Radio Merseyside.

Keep up to date with all things Eurovision by following @bbceurovision on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Sam Ryder set to represent UK at Eurovision 2022 with SPACE MAN

2022-03-10T09:15:00+00:00

Sam Ryder will represent the UK at Eurovision 2022 in Turin.

Following an extensive search headed by 2022 partners the global music management and publishing company TaP Music, the �鶹Լ�� today confirms that singer-songwriter Sam Ryder will be representing the United Kingdom at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest, set to be held in Turin, Italy in May 2022 with the song SPACE MAN.

With over 12 million followers and 100 million likes on TikTok, Sam is currently the most followed UK music artist on the platform.

The news was exclusively revealed by Scott Mills on Radio 1 Breakfast with Greg James earlier today (Thursday 10 March) with SPACE MAN having previously featured as Tune of the Week on Scott Mills’ Afternoon Show on �鶹Լ�� Radio 1.

As the world went into lockdown in March 2020, Sam uploaded the first of his now famous covers onto the popular social media platform and his extraordinary vocals quickly caught the attention of celebrity fans including Justin Bieber, Sia and Alicia Keys, who even posted her own video reacting to Sam’s cover of her song ‘If I Ain’t Got You’. As the videos kept coming, so did the fans with his social media standing on TikTok, Instagram and Facebook now at well over 17 million followers.

Having signed to Parlophone (part of Warner Music Group), one of the most famous and prestigious companies in the history of the music industry, Sam’s star has continued to rise. His debut EP was released in 2021 which has so far amassed over 100 million global streams with singles Whirlwind and Tiny Riot topping the worldwide iTunes charts. Sam has also just completed his first sold-out UK tour.

Sam Ryder co-wrote SPACE MAN with Grammy winning songwriter Amy Wadge (Ed Sheeran, Thinking Out Loud) and Max Wolfgang.

“Having been a fan of Eurovision since I was a kid l I am so honoured to have been presented with the opportunity to sing at an event alongside some of Europe’s most talented creatives, performers and songwriters. I hope to sing my head off in a way the UK can be proud of, and to showcase a song I wrote with my friends last summer makes the whole experience even more special. See you in Turin legends!” - Sam Ryder

“The Eurovision Song Contest is truly a cultural phenomenon and an amazing opportunity - with 200 million viewers – for the right performer. As well as Sam having an amazing voice – SPACE MAN is an instant song that we’re confident will really connect. Not to mention he’s also an extremely likeable and engaging character - as evidenced by his TikTok following.”

- TaP Music co-founders Ben Mawson and Ed Millett

“It’s been such an honour working with the TaP team and the �鶹Լ�� this year in being part of the selection process for our Eurovision entry. I’ve known and supported Sam on Radio 1 since he started and I’m so excited for what he’ll bring to the night in Turin - we truly have a brilliant act this year!" - Scott Mills

The contest itself will take place in Turin, Italy following the country's victory at the 2021 contest with the song "Zitti e buoni" by Måneskin. The Semi Finals will be broadcast on �鶹Լ�� Three and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer on Tuesday 10 and Thursday 12 May at 8pm and the Grand Final will be broadcast on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� iPlayer plus via �鶹Լ�� Radio 2 and �鶹Լ�� Sounds on Saturday 14 May from 8pm.

For the latest information on the United Kingdom at Eurovision 2022, follow @bbceurovision on Twitter and Instagram and �鶹Լ�� Eurovision on Facebook.

Eurovision Semi-Finals move to new home on �鶹Լ�� Three

2022-02-03T10:00:00+00:00

Sam Ryder will represent the UK at Eurovision 2022 in Turin.

Following an extensive search headed by 2022 partners the global music management and publishing company TaP Music, the �鶹Լ�� today confirms that singer-songwriter Sam Ryder will be representing the United Kingdom at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest, set to be held in Turin, Italy in May 2022 with the song SPACE MAN.

With over 12 million followers and 100 million likes on TikTok, Sam is currently the most followed UK music artist on the platform.

Sam Ryder co-wrote SPACE MAN with Grammy winning songwriter Amy Wadge (Ed Sheeran, Thinking Out Loud) and Max Wolfgang.

“Having been a fan of Eurovision since I was a kid l I am so honoured to have been presented with the opportunity to sing at an event alongside some of Europe’s most talented creatives, performers and songwriters. I hope to sing my head off in a way the UK can be proud of, and to showcase a song I wrote with my friends last summer makes the whole experience even more special. See you in Turin legends!” - Sam Ryder

“The Eurovision Song Contest is truly a cultural phenomenon and an amazing opportunity - with 200 million viewers – for the right performer. As well as Sam having an amazing voice – SPACE MAN is an instant song that we’re confident will really connect. Not to mention he’s also an extremely likeable and engaging character - as evidenced by his TikTok following.”

- TaP Music co-founders Ben Mawson and Ed Millett

“It’s been such an honour working with the TaP team and the �鶹Լ�� this year in being part of the selection process for our Eurovision entry. I’ve known and supported Sam on Radio 1 since he started and I’m so excited for what he’ll bring to the night in Turin - we truly have a brilliant act this year!" - Scott Mills

For the latest information on the United Kingdom at Eurovision 2022, follow @bbceurovision on Twitter and Instagram and �鶹Լ�� Eurovision on Facebook.

Eurovision 2022 Plans Outlined for United Kingdom

2021-10-20T23:00:00+00:00

Sam Ryder will represent the UK at Eurovision 2022 in Turin.

Following an extensive search headed by 2022 partners the global music management and publishing company TaP Music, the �鶹Լ�� today confirms that singer-songwriter Sam Ryder will be representing the United Kingdom at the 66th Eurovision Song Contest, set to be held in Turin, Italy in May 2022 with the song SPACE MAN.

With over 12 million followers and 100 million likes on TikTok, Sam is currently the most followed UK music artist on the platform.

Sam Ryder co-wrote SPACE MAN with Grammy winning songwriter Amy Wadge (Ed Sheeran, Thinking Out Loud) and Max Wolfgang.

“Having been a fan of Eurovision since I was a kid l I am so honoured to have been presented with the opportunity to sing at an event alongside some of Europe’s most talented creatives, performers and songwriters. I hope to sing my head off in a way the UK can be proud of, and to showcase a song I wrote with my friends last summer makes the whole experience even more special. See you in Turin legends!” - Sam Ryder

“The Eurovision Song Contest is truly a cultural phenomenon and an amazing opportunity - with 200 million viewers – for the right performer. As well as Sam having an amazing voice – SPACE MAN is an instant song that we’re confident will really connect. Not to mention he’s also an extremely likeable and engaging character - as evidenced by his TikTok following.”

- TaP Music co-founders Ben Mawson and Ed Millett

“It’s been such an honour working with the TaP team and the �鶹Լ�� this year in being part of the selection process for our Eurovision entry. I’ve known and supported Sam on Radio 1 since he started and I’m so excited for what he’ll bring to the night in Turin - we truly have a brilliant act this year!" - Scott Mills

For the latest information on the United Kingdom at Eurovision 2022, follow @bbceurovision on Twitter and Instagram and �鶹Լ�� Eurovision on Facebook.

Eurovision 2021 – Covid-19 Health & Safety Regulations

2021-05-18T17:18:42+00:00

Eurovision 2021 – Covid-19 Health & Safety Regulations

This year’s Eurovision Song Contest (Semi Finals & Grand Final) is being held at the AHOY Arena in Rotterdam.
In accordance with current Dutch Government guidelines there will be a limited audience of 3,500 people in the Arena (20% of the normal capacity). This is part of a test programme for events being carried out in the Netherlands, just as they are in the UK.
All members of the audience have to follow strict health & safety rules and must present a negative Covid test certificate upon arrival. On production of this they do not need to wear a mask or distance when in their seat.

For artists, crew and media there are very strict Covid-19 health and safety measures whilst in Rotterdam (both at the arena and in their hotel accommodation), and whilst travelling to and from the Ahoy arena. There is also an extensive testing programme in place for all crew, press, artists and national delegations.

All members of the UK delegation will be following these protocols throughout out their time in Rotterdam and on their return to the UK.

Amanda Holden is the UK's Spokesperson for 2021!

2021-04-13T07:30:00+00:00

Sara Cox, Rylan Clark-Neal, Graham Norton, Chelcee Grimes, Scott Mills & Amanda Holden | The �鶹Լ�� line-up for Eurovision 2021

The �鶹Լ�� have revealed the full line-up who will be joining Graham Norton for the Eurovision Song Contest 2021.

Graham Norton will return for the Grand Final on �鶹Լ�� One, produced by �鶹Լ�� Studios, where he will be commentating live from Rotterdam. While Ken Bruce will continue his long-running coverage over on �鶹Լ�� Radio 2.

Grammy-nominated singer songwriter and presenter, Chelcee Grimes will be joining Rylan Clark-Neal and Scott Mills for the semi-finals live on �鶹Լ�� Four. Presenting live from London, they will oversee proceedings as 33 countries compete for their place in the Grand Final. The semi-finals will air on the 18th and 20th May on �鶹Լ�� Four, with UK viewers able to vote in the second semi-final on the 20th.

Graham Norton returns for his 12th Eurovision Song Contest on �鶹Լ�� One. After commentating last year on Eurovision: Europe Shine a Light, he will return to his coveted post for this year’s live Grand Final.

Actress and singer, Amanda Holden will be taking the reins of the Eurovision Spokesperson, where she will be delivering the results of the UK professional jury vote live from London. She follows in the illustrious footsteps of Nigella Lawson, Mel Giedroyc, Richard Osman, Alex Jones, Cheryl Baker, Katrina Leskanich from Katrina & The Waves, and Lorraine Kelly.

The last Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final to be broadcast on �鶹Լ�� One in 2019 was the most watched music programme on the �鶹Լ�� that year and it was the most popular music TV show of the year amongst 16-34s.

Multi-platinum selling, BRIT Award winning and Grammy-Nominated singer-songwriter James Newman will be representing the UK with his single ‘Embers’, released by BMG after the renewed collaboration with �鶹Լ�� Studios for the contest.

This external content is available at its source: James Newman will sing 'Embers' for the UK at Eurovision 2021.

This year the Eurovision Song Contest will be broadcast live from Rotterdam, after the competition was cancelled in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.

‘I’m so excited for Eurovision to return, after the past year we’ve had it’s exactly the kind of joy the world needs. The UK have a great entry with James Newman and ‘Embers’, it’s a banger and represents everything that Eurovision is. It’s arguably the best night of the year and I can’t wait – bring it on!’ - Graham Norton

‘Radio 2 is getting right behind Eurovision 2021 with shows galore to delight all the fans. We’re all so delighted the competition is back this year. On the night I’ll be presenting the live show from my hot seat at Wogan House – bringing listeners all the entries, all the drama and, of course, the ultimate winner! Will it be the UK’s year to finally win again? I can’t wait to find out!’ - Ken Bruce

‘There was a big Eurovision shaped hole in my life last year, so I am super excited to see what everyone brings to the table for 2021 – it’s the best time of the year! I am looking forward to being reunited with Scott for the semi-finals and to welcome Chelcee to the team! Plus ‘Embers’ is an absolute tune – I can’t wait!’ - Rylan Clark-Neal

‘Eurovision week is my favourite of the year and I cannot wait for the biggest entertainment show on the planet to return! Although we won’t be in Rotterdam ourselves, Rylan, Chelcee and I will definitely make sure we’re still throwing the ultimate can’t miss celebration for this year’s semi-finals.' - Scott Mills

‘I am super excited to be joining the Eurovision family, I can’t wait to host the semi-finals alongside Scott and Rylan, it’s going to be awesome. I have always been a fan of Eurovision, and I can’t wait to be a part of it. I’m looking forward to seeing all the weird and wonderful performances, as well as cheering on my mate James who is waving the flag for the UK! James and I have written together for a previous Eurovision winner and we've also penned some songs for the Romanian entrant so he is the best person for the job. JAMES TO WIN!’ - Chelcee Grimes

‘What an honour to announce the UK’s votes this year. I’m utterly thrilled. It’s an ambition ticked after 45 years of watching it! Now, what to wear…’ - Amanda Holden

The 65th Eurovision Song Contest will take place in Rotterdam, Netherlands. The Semi Finals will be broadcast on 18th and 20th May on �鶹Լ�� Four. The Grand Final will be broadcast on 22nd May on �鶹Լ�� One and also on �鶹Լ�� Radio 2 and �鶹Լ�� Sounds.

May is the month of Eurovision on the �鶹Լ��

2021-04-01T07:00:00+00:00

Sara Cox, Rylan Clark-Neal, Graham Norton, Chelcee Grimes, Scott Mills & Amanda Holden | The �鶹Լ�� line-up for Eurovision 2021

The world’s biggest music competition returns this May as the Eurovision Song Contest, one of the longest-running and most-watched non-sporting events in the world, is broadcast live from Rotterdam across the �鶹Լ��. In celebration of the biggest music competition in the world, the �鶹Լ�� is promising plenty of Eurovision content across TV, Radio and Online.

The Netherlands will play host to the competition following the country's victory in 2019 in Israel with Duncan Laurence who wrote and performed ‘Arcade’.

This year marks the 65th edition of the competition, after it was cancelled last year due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This year there will be 39 countries competing in the contest, including two semi-finals that will be broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� Four, and the Grand Final which will be broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� Radio 2.

As one of the Big Five countries (United Kingdom, Spain, Germany, France, Italy), the United Kingdom does not have to qualify from the semi-final stage of the competition and will gain automatic access to the Saturday Grand Final. The Netherlands, as host, also has automatic qualification to the Grand Final.

Multi-platinum selling, BRIT Award winning and Grammy-Nominated singer-songwriter James Newman will be representing the UK with his single ‘Embers’, released by BMG after the renewed collaboration with �鶹Լ�� Studios for the contest.

The result of the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest will be determined by a 50/50 vote. 50% of the votes come from the televoting in each participating country and the other 50% of votes will come from a group of five music professionals from each of the 39 countries taking part.

This external content is available at its source: James Newman will sing 'Embers' for the UK at Eurovision 2021.

GRAND FINAL

Saturday 22nd May, 8pm on �鶹Լ�� One

Graham Norton will provide the commentary on �鶹Լ�� One for Europe’s biggest party night of the year.

The Eurovision Song Contest 2021, will be hosted by Chantal Janzen, Jan Smit, Edsilia Rombley and Nikkie de Jager (also known as NikkieTutorials) and broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� One and �鶹Լ�� Radio 2. The qualifying acts from the semi-finals will join hosts Netherlands plus the ‘Big Five’ countries France, Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom in the Grand Final of the 65th Eurovision Song Contest from The Ahoy in Rotterdam.

This year we will see interval performances from Dutch DJ Afrojack featuring Glennis Grace and Wulf as they will perform ‘Music Binds Us’ a specially commissioned piece for the Grand Final. Current reigning Eurovison winner from 2019, Duncan Laurence, will be performing his winning song Arcade. Plus we will a multi act performance entitled ‘Rock The Roof’, a collaboration featuring six former Eurovision winners – Lenny Kuhr (1969), Teach-In (1975), Sandra Kim (1986), Helena Paparizou (2005), Lordi (2006) and Måns Zelmerlöw (2015).

Voting procedure

After viewers have cast their votes, each national spokesperson from the 39 participating countries will be called in to present the points of their professional jury. Amanda Holden will be the United Kingdom’s spokesperson, delivering the all-important results live from London.

After the presentation of the scores from the juries, the televoting points from all participating countries will be combined, providing one score for each song. These televoting results will then be announced by the host building towards a dramatic climax.

More details regarding the voting procedure and how you can get involved can be found at bbc.co.uk/eurovision.

SEMI-FINALS

The semi-finals will be live on �鶹Լ�� Four, presented by Rylan Clark-Neal, Scott Mills and Chelcee Grimes.

Tuesday 18th May, 8pm on �鶹Լ�� FOUR

In the first semi-final, the first group of countries will compete for a place in Saturday’s Grand Final.
The 16 countries competing are: Lithuania, Slovenia, Russia, Sweden, Australia, North Macedonia, Ireland, Cyprus, Norway, Croatia, Belgium, Israel, Romania, Azerbaijan, Ukraine and Malta.

Opening the show is The Netherlands Duncan Laurence, the most recent winner of Eurovision from 2019. Since 2019 Duncan's Eurovision winning song 'Arcade' became a TikTok phenomenon, and earlier this year it returned to the UK charts along with an appearance in US Billboard charts.

Highlights of the first semi-final includes one of the bookies favourites Destiny, who is representing Malta. Also appearing is a Russian rapper who is also a women's rights activist, a Ukrainian electro-folklore outfit, and a Cypriot act whose song "El Diablo" has faced protests from some of the country's devout Christian community.

Thursday 20th May, 8pm on �鶹Լ�� FOUR

The second semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 will feature 17 different acts taking to the stage in the hope of securing a place in Saturday’s Grand Final.

Competing this evening are: San Marino, Estonia, Czech Republic, Greece, Austria, Poland, Moldova, Iceland, Serbia, Georgia, Albania, Portugal, Bulgaria, Finland, Latvia, Switzerland and Denmark.

Viewers in the United Kingdom are able to vote in this semi-final once all of the nights acts have performed.

Highlights of the second semi-final include one of the bookies favourites, San Marino with their entrant Senhit. Plus Daði Freyr is back for Iceland. Daði was due to appear last year and even though the contest was cancelled, their entry ‘Think About Things’ was a viral sensation racking up more than 75 million Spotify Streams.

PLUS CLASSIC EUROVISION CONTENT ON FRIDAY 21ST MAY

The A-Z of Eurovision

Rylan Clark-Neal narrates a guide to all things Eurovision in this compilation of highlights, as he takes a sideways look at the greatest singing contest on the planet.

Moving through the alphabet, Rylan will be taking us from A, which is of course for Abba & Azerbaijan but also animals - featuring the Italian gorilla suit man and Azerbaijan’s artist dancing with a horse’s head through Z is for Zelmerlöw, Måns Zelmerlöw to be precise. The only Eurovision performer to have won the contest, hosted the contest and taken part in an interval act.

The A-Z of Eurovision, first broadcast in 2020 and produced by �鶹Լ�� Studios, will feature all the disasters, the costume changes and memorable musical moments from 65 years of Eurovision.

Eurovision at 60

First shown to celebrate the Eurovision Song Contest’s 60th anniversary in 2015, �鶹Լ�� Four joins the celebrations with an appreciation of the joy, fun, scandal and intrigue that has defined the Eurovision Song Contest.

It’s a story of pioneering songs, singers and programme makers; complex and extraordinary technology, laborious voting and a bit of naughtiness. Above all, it can be argued that Eurovision is a symbol of tolerance. As Graham Norton says of Conchita Wurst’s 2014 win: “The people had spoken…and they were nicer and more tolerant people than their governments let us think.”

This documentary features interviews with Graham Norton, Conchita Wurst, Sir Terry Wogan and a whole host of Eurovision stars, songwriters and programme makers.

Abba at the �鶹Լ��

Abba at the �鶹Լ�� charts the meteoric rise of the band with some of their greatest performances at the �鶹Լ��. We begin in 1974 with their Top of the Pops appearance; we even get to see the band entertaining holidaymakers in Torbay in a 1975 Seaside Special.
There are many classic ABBA tunes from the 1979 �鶹Լ�� special Abba in Switzerland and we even have ABBA's final �鶹Լ�� appearance on the Late Late Breakfast show in 1982.

This compilation is a must for all Abba fans and includes great archive interviews, promos and performances of some of Abba's classics from Waterloo, Dancing Queen, Does Your Mother Know, Thank You for the Music, S.O.S, Fernando and Chiquitita, plus many more.

�鶹Լ�� Radio 2 celebrates Eurovision 2021 across the station, building up to the live Eurovision Grand Final hosted by Ken Bruce on the big night itself on Saturday 22nd May. Ken will be live from Wogan House in London from 8pm – his first time broadcasting from there since March 2020. He’ll be introducing the 65th Eurovision Song Contest, which is taking place at the Ahoy Arena in Rotterdam, bringing listeners every country’s performance from the final of the world’s biggest song contest. After last year’s contest was cancelled because of the Coronavirus pandemic, James Newman returns to represent the UK, although he brings a brand new song, Embers. And in what has now become a touching tradition, Ken will be toasting Sir Terry Wogan before contestant number nine’s performance (8pm until the end of the final, Saturday 22nd May) - a �鶹Լ�� Audio production.

In the weeks building up to the final, OJ Borg will be playing his very own Eurovision One Hit Wonders. OJ loves Eurovision - he’s half Maltese and, for Malta, it is like their World Cup! He’ll be playing some of the contest’s best one hit wonders that charted in the UK, including the last Eurovision song to get to number one. He’ll also be chatting to Sally Ann Triplett from Bardo who represented the UK in 1982 in Harrogate. They finished in seventh place with their song, One Step Further, which reached number two in the charts - it was also John Peel’s favourite Eurovision song! Sally was also a member of Prima Donna who finished third in Eurovision 1980 with Love Enough For Two, but just missed out on the UK Top 40 (midnight-3am, Monday 10th May) - an Audio Always production.

James Newman picks his Tracks Of My Years from Monday to Thursday on The Ken Bruce Show (17th-20th May) and is the guest on Ken’s Eurovision Preview Special where he’ll be catching up with reigning Dutch Eurovision winner, Duncan Laurence, and hearing from two of the main presenters on the night - Jan Smit and Edsilia Rombley. Also that day Ken will be looking ahead to some of the songs tipped to score big points in the final with broadcaster and self-confessed Eurovision super fan, Paddy O'Connell (9.30am-12pm, Friday 21st May).

There will be lots of build-up on The Zoe Ball Breakfast Show as Eurovision superfan Richie Anderson supports James and his Eurovision bid (6.30-9.30am). On The Steve Wright Show, Scott Mills and Rylan Clark-Neal will join Steve to look ahead to the semi-finals taking place that week (2-5pm). The Sara Cox Show will be featuring a Eurovision themed First & Last, chatting to a listener about their memories of the first and last Eurovision shows they attended (5-7pm, Thursday 20th May). All �鶹Լ�� Audio productions.

Rylan will have Sonia - who came second in 1993’s Eurovision with her song, Better The Devil You Know - as his guest (Sat 8th May) and a Eurovision Desert Rylan Mix (3-6pm, Saturday 15th May) - an Ora et Labora production.

Michael Ball will be closing the vote for the greatest Eurovision Song of all-time (10am-1pm, Sunday 9th May); there will be a Eurovision special of his weekly On the Ball topical entertainment quiz and he’ll be re-living his own Eurovision experience, leading the nation with his One Step Out of Time routine for the weekly dance sensation that is Boogie with Ball (Sunday 16th May)! A Listen production.

On Saturday 22nd May, the day of the Grand Final:

• Dermot O’Leary will be speaking to Irish singer and two times Eurovision winner, Johnny Logan (8-10am) – an Ora et Labora production.

• Claudia Winkleman will be chatting to James Newman live from Rotterdam ahead of the final that night, finding out how he’s feeling now the show is just a few hours away (10am-1pm) - A TBI Media production.

• Ken Bruce reveals The UK’s All Time Eurovision Top 50, counting down the chart of favourite entries as voted for by UK Eurovision fans (available on �鶹Լ�� Sounds from Tuesday 18th May and on Radio 2 from 1-3pm today) – a �鶹Լ�� Audio production.

• Rylan and Scott’s Eurovision Party will be hearing from some of the contest’s commentators from across Europe and beyond and speaking to Michelle Visage (3-6pm) – a �鶹Լ�� Audio production.

• Sophie Ellis Bextor’s Eurovision Kitchen Disco will provide the ultimate warm up for the UK for the main event (6-8pm) – a Listen production.

• Ken Bruce presents the star attraction - the Eurovision Grand Final from 8pm until the end of the show – a �鶹Լ�� Audio production.

• Then it’s Richie Anderson’s Eurovision After Party continuing the celebrations for those who want to keep the party going (from the end of the Grand Final until 2am) - a Somethin’ Else production.

Radio 2 listeners may have noticed a different sound on the station as Sander Hoogendoorn – a presenter on public broadcaster, NPO 3FM, in the Netherlands – is the network’s 'voice' of Eurovision. He’s recorded the promotional programming trails and jingles which are being played out across the month leading up to the Grand Final, bringing the sound of Rotterdam to Radio 2's coverage of the event!

�鶹Լ�� SOUNDS

A special edition of Vanessa Feltz’s A Dance Through The Decades features classic Eurovision anthems from each of the last six decades of the contest (from Friday 14th May) - a Listen production.

There will be two editions of Rylan’s Singalong Eurovision Anthems – The Singalongadingdong Eurovision Mix featuring all the wild tracks that have entered over the years including Cezar’s ‘It’s My Life’, Genghis Khan’s ‘Dschinghis Khan’ and Netta’s ‘Toy’ (available now), and The Classics featuring all the best-known and much-loved entries (available from 8th May) – both Ora et Labora productions.

Plus a My Life in a Mixtape Eurovision Special with Loreen, the Swedish winner of the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest with her song Euphoria, will be playing the songs that have meant the most to her - shaping her musical journey, the songs she adored as a teenager, what was the first song she sang, which artist will she’ll never stop loving and more. The show will dip a Eurovision toe into the wealth of past winners and, of course, Loreen’s own Eurovision journey - �鶹Լ�� Audio Scotland production.

Also available on �鶹Լ�� Sounds is the Eurovision Collection featuring classic shows from the �鶹Լ�� archive from the past 20 years, including The Luck of the Irish with Terry Wogan, From Abba to Azerbaijan with Maria McErlane and featuring Terry Wogan, Terry Wogan’s Tracks of My Eurovision Years with Ken Bruce and Terry, Steve Wright’s Eurovision Love Songs, Nil Points with Rufus Hound, Eurovision Pick of the Pops 50s & 60s with Tony Blackburn, Eurovision Pick of the Pops 70s & 80s, and Eurovision Pick of the Pops 90s & beyond.

After the Grand Final, from Sunday morning Visage’s Eurovision Review will be available with Michelle Visage giving her review of the highs and lows of the Eurovision 2021 final.

Eurovision 2021: The Road To Rotterdam

An iPlayer documentary from Radio 1 Newsbeat with exclusive access to James Newman as he prepares to represent the UK with Embers at one of the world’s biggest song competitions in the world. The team follow him for the last few months as he gets ready for the biggest moment of his life....from his music video shoot, to his rehearsals... all the way to his arrival in Rotterdam. The documentary also features many of the other 38 acts to show how they've been navigating a global pandemic to get to the Netherlands.
TX: �鶹Լ�� iPlayer - Monday 17th May.

There will be a Eurovision collection on iPlayer to celebrate the contests return, including classic Eurovision Song Contest finals and a selection of music programmes including a TOTPs special and a profile of one of Eurovision’s most loved winners, ABBA.

Follow �鶹Լ�� Eurovision on Twitter (@bbceurovision), Instagram (@bbceurovision) and Facebook (�鶹Լ�� Eurovision) as well as �鶹Լ�� Radio 2 social channels. Plus visit bbc.co.uk/eurovision for all the latest news and information

James Newman will sing 'Embers' for the UK at Eurovision 2021!

2021-03-11T07:55:00+00:00

James Newman has been confirmed as the artist representing the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest 2021 after the competition was postponed in 2020 because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The 65th Eurovision Song Contest will be held in Rotterdam, The Netherlands in May 2021.

He has co-written ‘Embers’ with some of the UK’s most sought after writers and producers who between them have amassed over 4 billion streams.

This external content is available at its source: https://twitter.com/bbceurovision/status/1369970294740357127?s=20

Composers & Lyricists: James Newman, Conor Blake, Danny Shah, Tom Hollings, Samuel Brennan

Conor Blake is a Grammy nominated songwriter. His most notable co-writes are with Meduza and Goodboys. He co-wrote the Platinum selling single ‘Lose Control’ for Meduza, Goodboys and Becky Hill and the recent Top 5 single ‘Paradise’ for Meduza featuring Dermot Kennedy. His biggest success came with the 2019 Meduza featuring Goodboys track ‘Piece Of Your Heart’. The song was a huge worldwide hit selling multi-platinum in Austria, Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, Czech Republic, Italy, Ireland, The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Switzerland and the UK.

Danny Shah is a multi platinum songwriter / singer / multi-instrumentalist / producer with releases including 4 UK Number 1s with The Vamps and Kylie Minogue. Danny has also written for David Guetta, Sigala, HRVY, The Him, The Shires, Sam Feldt, Gnash, Sigma, The Vamps, Now United to name a few.

Tom Hollings and Samuel Brennan are writers who have seen their songs surpass over 250 million steams in the last 18 months. They have worked with Melanie C, Zak Abel, and 220Kid amongst many others.

The track’s soaring brass section is provided by Swedish composer/arrangers Mattias Bylund and Magnus Johansson, known for their work with Max Martin and The Weeknd.

“I’m so excited and honoured to be getting a second chance at representing my country in the Eurovision Song Contest. I haven’t stopped making new music in lockdown and I can’t wait for everyone to hear the song I’m taking to Eurovision in 2021.” - James Newman

James Newman is a hugely successful BRIT Award-winning and Grammy-nominated songwriter. James won a BRIT for British Single of the Year for Waiting All Night, performed by Rudimental and Ella Eyre. He has also written hit singles Lay It All On Me performed by Rudimental ft Ed Sheeran, Blame performed by Calvin Harris ft. John Newman, and Therapy, performed by Armin Van Buuren and James Newman. Last year James co-wrote My Last Breath with acclaimed British songwriters Ed Drewett, Iain James and Adam Argyle which was the song entered by the UK in last year’s competition before it was postponed. James released his debut EP ‘The Things We Do’ in Summer 2020 and ended the year with another new collaboration with Armin Van Buuren, ‘Slow Lane’

The song will be released and published by BMG, and �鶹Լ�� Studios will once again produce the �鶹Լ��’s coverage of the biggest and most watched song competition in the world.

The Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final will take place on Saturday 22 May in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, and will be broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� One with commentary by Graham Norton; and live on �鶹Լ�� Radio 2 with commentary from Ken Bruce. Ken Bruce will be also be previewing Eurovision on his Radio 2 show from 9.30am-12 noon on Friday 21 May. The semi-finals will be held on Tuesday 18 & Thursday 20 May, broadcast live on �鶹Լ�� Four.