The 69th Eurovision Song Contest is set to take place in Basel, Switzerland, from May 13 to May 17, 2025, marking a significant return to the country where it all began 69 years ago. This year’s event promises to be a spectacular showcase of talent, with a stunning 350m² set featuring Switzerland's iconic peaks, and a diverse lineup of performances in 20 languages.
As excitement builds, Martin Green, the newly appointed director of the Eurovision Song Contest, is already looking beyond this year’s festivities. "My job is absolutely to look after the jewel in the crown that is the big show in May," Green stated, emphasizing the importance of the event amidst the challenges faced by many European Broadcasting Union (EBU) members. He aims to expand the Eurovision brand globally, exploring potential versions of the show in regions like the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) and India.
Green, who joined Eurovision last year after a successful career including roles in the London Olympics and the Commonwealth Games, has a vision for the future of the competition. He noted, "If we’ve got this great thing about music and bringing people together and this fan base, what more can we do with that?" With 170 million viewers tuning in annually and hundreds of millions more engaging online, the potential for expansion is substantial.
In addition to the main event, the House of Helvetia, a fan-centric event, will run from May 10 to May 17, 2025, at the Helvetia Campus in Basel. This venue will host live interviews and performances by participating artists, providing fans a unique opportunity to engage with their favorite Eurovision stars. Confirmed artists include Shkodra Elektronike from Albania, Laura Thorn from Luxembourg, and Tommy Cash from Estonia, who will perform his entry "Espresso Macchiato" during the first semi-final on May 13.
As the competition heats up, Spotify data reveals that Sweden's KAJ and their song "Bara Bada Bastu" are emerging as frontrunners, generating twice as many streams as their closest competitor. Other top contenders include entries from Italy, the Netherlands, San Marino, and Estonia, showcasing the diverse musical styles that Eurovision is known for.
This year’s grand final will be broadcast live on May 17, with countries like Estonia, represented by Kohver of 5MIINUST, announcing their jury points. Kohver’s involvement continues Estonia’s tradition of featuring local personalities during the voting sequence, following the footsteps of previous representatives like footballer Ragnar Klavan and singer Birgit Sarrap.
The anticipation surrounding the Eurovision Song Contest is palpable, not just for the music but also for the cultural exchange it fosters. Green remarked, "We’re not immune to what’s going on in the world, and neither should we be. But I do think there is a place, particularly in sport and entertainment, for major events that seek, momentarily, to sit to one side." This sentiment reflects the enduring spirit of Eurovision, which aims to unite diverse nations through the power of music.
As the event approaches, rehearsals for the second semi-final are underway, with countries like Georgia, Denmark, Finland, and Israel preparing to showcase their entries. The first semi-final will kick off the festivities on May 13, followed by the second semi-final on May 15. The excitement culminates in the grand final, where the winner will be determined by a combination of jury and public votes.
Switzerland's hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest comes after the country’s victory in the 2024 contest with Nemo’s song "The Code," which scored an impressive 591 points. This achievement has reignited interest in the competition, as Switzerland seeks to reclaim its place at the forefront of European music.
With the Eurovision motto of "United by music," the event serves as a reminder of the potential for harmony in a world often divided by conflict. Green envisions a future where Eurovision can expand beyond Europe, potentially celebrating its 70th anniversary on another continent. "I think that in 70 years’ time, another continent will be celebrating its anniversary," he stated, hinting at the global aspirations for the beloved music competition.
The House of Helvetia will also feature various activities, including panel discussions and public viewings of the semi-finals and grand final. Attendees will have the chance to mingle with artists, participate in Q&A sessions, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Eurovision in Basel.
As the world tunes in to witness the spectacle that is Eurovision, the event not only highlights the rich tapestry of musical talent across Europe but also fosters a sense of community and shared experience among viewers. With its blend of competition, celebration, and cultural exchange, the Eurovision Song Contest continues to be a beacon of hope and joy in an often tumultuous world.
As the countdown to Eurovision 2025 continues, fans are left wondering which artist will take home the coveted trophy and what new heights the competition will reach in the future. With Green at the helm, the future of Eurovision looks bright, as he aims to build on its legacy while embracing new opportunities for growth and connection.
Stay tuned as we bring you all the latest updates and insights from the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland, where music truly unites us all.
