EUROVISION'S MOST IMPORTANT SONGS Update: #55-51.

EUROVISION’S

100

MOST ESSENTIAL SONGS

(1956-2015)

Now that the dust has settled on another fabulous Eurovision Song Contest, it’s time to look back on the most important and influential songs that have competed over the last 60 years. All of the winning songs are included, as well as other noteworthy entries from the most watched music contest in the world.

#55

ERES TU

MOCEDADES

Spain -1973

The sextet Mocedades hailed from Bilbao and performed Spain’s entry in 1973. The catchy title came a close 2^nd. In 3^rd position was Cliff Richard singing for the UK. He was beaten again by a Spanish song (this time, by 2 points- instead of 1 as he had been in 1968).

 

#54

DIGGI-LOO, DIGGI-LEY

THE HERREYS

Sweden -1984

A group of Swedish Mormons claimed 1^st prize in 1984. Again, its nonsensical title attracted criticism. But there was no denying its catchy hook. The colourful presentation by the 3 brothers helped make them memorable, despite performing first on the night. This became Sweden’s 2^nd win. Finally, the country could prove ABBA’s win 10 years prior had been no fluke.

#53

LANE MOJE

ZELJKO JOKSIMOVIC & Ad Hoc Orchesta

Serbia & Montenegro -2004

2004 saw the debut of Serbia & Montenegro at Eurovision. Together, their entry was a Balkan ballad that earned the best result for any country’s 1^st time appearance. It also proved that a quality song with no frills, relying solely on its aural strengths, could perform well.

#52

APRES TOI

VICKY LEANDROS

Luxembourg -1972

Vicky Leandros was born in Greece, but twice represented Luxembourg. Her initial attempt saw her finish 4^th in 1967 with the ESC classic “L’ Amour Est Bleu”. She returned in 1972. This time, she finished in 1^st place with “Apres Toi” (meaning “after you”). This marked the last year when countries had to perform in a national language, although this rule was re-introduced in later years until it was relaxed in 1999. Today, countries are unrestricted in choice of language.

#51

OOH AAH… JUST A LITTLE BIT

GINA G

United Kingdom -1996

Australian Gina G arrived at Eurovision as the favourite in 1996, representing the UK with a hi-energy dance track. Its poor finish (in 8^th position) was strong evidence that leaving the decision of selecting a winner to judges was an unreliable method of reflecting the viewing public’s tastes. Tele-voting would be introduced the following year.

Another 5 songs highlighted tomorrow.