Eurovision

[tw]

I never thought I would like it. But Radio Japan played Japanese Hip Hop. It was good.

On the heels of an Orange Revolution, Ukraine recently hosted the 50th Eurovison Contest. You know at least one previous winner. The song was Waterloo sung by Abba.

As singers sing, people throughout Europe call to vote their favorites. One restriction. Voters cannot vote for a song from the country they are calling from.

Take an hour. There is no shortage of excellent voices. But not every song is championship material. Most are worthy. Remember. This is radio. Ken Bruce is BBC's Radio Two, old, white haired commentator who is not politically correct - my favorite people. Therefore we get to see on the words of Ken Bruce what actually is on stage. Begins with a song from last years Ukrainian winner. Nice song.

The Eurovision Song Contest with Ken Bruce

Under BBC2, click on the link entitled "Listen Again".

The Economist recently summarized a study of how politics may play into the voting. Some countries are more likely to sponsor winners due to Euro-bias. UK is typically well received. France does not do well. Malta was a favorite for me. However that type of music is said to not win in Eurovision. I also liked Sweden's song. Again, judges did not agree.

I believe RealAudio must be on your computer for this to work. Another link that may replay this Eurovison Radio show (even via a modem):
Eurovision from BBC Radio 2
But unfortunately, this link may be into its last days. I believe Medialink will then charge to replay Eurovision 2005.