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 | SNEAK PEEK |
Over the next few weeks I am presenting some songs to listen out for in the Eurovision selections. You can find the most recent selection of songs here another selection here, and information on the first selection here. Given bandwidth limits I'm only leaving the soundfiles online for a limited period, but please come back regularly to hear other
potential Eurovision entries.
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BARBARA DEX |
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"Crazy" |
This weekend saw the second qualifier in Belgium's Eurovision selection, and in truth a far better collection of songs and performances, than the first week. There was also a bit of an upset, with a name from Eurovision's past making a comeback, and winning the
show. Those with a good memory may remember Barbara Dex from the 1993 contest in Millstreet. Her song "Iemand Als Jij" was a rather sickly sweet ballad that finished last of 25 entries, earning Belgium their first Eurovision relegation. However, it wasn't the song, but her ghastly yellow frock that
has earned Barbara long lasting fame, and inspired the "Barbara Dex Award" for the worst dressed Eurovision performer every year. Undeterred, Barbara is back and both her dress sense and musical style have changed dramatically. Now 31 years old Barbara has gone country with the song "Crazy" which wouldn't be out of
place on a Shania Twain album and may be a surprise contender to see see Barbara returning to Eurovision. Mind you the jury's still out on her wardrobe. |
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DOVE |
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"4ever" |
If my inbox is to be believed, I've upset a couple of delicate souls in Lithuania, with my first digest of 2006. Well "prove me wrong" I say! Next weekend's Lithuanian "Eurovision Studio" talent search includes three girls who go by the name of
Dove. I can
hardly wait to find out whether we'll see their faux ballet costumes on stage on Saturday night, but their song "4ever" (complete with oh so trendy text style spelling) isn't half bad and if the standard of next week's show is anything like it was this week, they should sail through to the next round.
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JENNIE |
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"Take Me Higher" |
While "Moster Rock" band Lordi may have hogged the headlines in Finland's first semi-final staged last Friday night, another song which progressed to the final from the same show has a far more typical Eurovision flavour. "Take Me Higher" sung by Jennie
even has choreography which incorporates the singer being lifted in the air, a gimmick which was used by both Ukraine in 2004 and Greece in 2005 as part of their winning performances. As for "Take Me Higher", the song itself is a very strong and straight forward pop effort, and wouldn't be out of place on a Kylie Minogue
album. Who knows, Finland might for once end up with the most interesting of this year's Nordic Eurovision selections.
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