The countdown has begun as Germany gears up for the upcoming Eurovision 2025 with its rebranded national selection process named "Chefsache ESC 2025 – Who sings for Germany?" This exciting event will showcase the talents of 24 artists competing to earn the coveted chance to represent the nation at the Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place from May 13 to 17, 2025, in Basel, Switzerland.
Leading the selection process this year is renowned television producer Stefan Raab, who previously represented Germany at Eurovision 2000. Partnering with Raab are the national broadcasters ARD and RTL, who will be responsible for producing and airing the various stages of the selection.
The participants who will vie for the spotlight were revealed recently, and they encompass diverse talents. The following acts will compete:
- Abor & Tynna
- ADINA
- Benjamin Braatz
- Cage
- Chase
- Cloudy June
- COSBY
- Enny-Mae x Paradigm
- Equa Tu
- FANNIE
- Feuerschwanz
- From Fall to Spring
- JALN
- Janine
- Jonathan Henrich
- JULIKA
- LEONORA
- LYZA
- Moss Kena
- NI-KA
- Noah Levi
- Parallel
- The Great Leslie
- Vincent Varus
With submissions having closed on November 28, 2024, the selection attracted attention, receiving 3,281 applications. Notably, 20% of these submissions came from bands, reflecting the growing trend of group performances. Among the applicants, 1,198 artists provided original songs for consideration, raising the anticipation for the quality of performances to be expected throughout the competition.
The selection process for "Chefsache ESC 2025" is composed of several phases. The event will kick off on February 14, 2025, with the first of two heats, followed by the second heat on February 15, and then the semi-final set for February 22. The final event will take place on March 1, 2025, at 20:15 local time and will be broadcast live on ARD's Das Erste channel.
During the heats, 12 acts will perform, with 7 artists advancing from each heat based on their jury scores. The semi-final will feature 14 acts, with 9 making it to the decisive Grand Final. The professional jury, led by Raab, will evaluate performances across the first three shows, utilizing their expertise to select artists for advancement.
Then, the final decision will rest entirely with the public vote, which adds excitement and suspense to the concluding night. This structure ensures not only artistry but also audience connection, aiming to reflect the nation’s musical preferences through its representative.
Barbara Schöneberger, beloved for her charismatic hosting style, has been confirmed as the host for all four shows, promising lively and engaging broadcasts.
Germany has a rich history within the Eurovision Song Contest. Participatory since its inception in 1956, the nation saw only one miss when it failed to qualify back in 1996. Not only has Germany secured victories, with memorable entries from artists like Nicole and Lena, but it also stands out for its resilient presence, though it has endured its share of low finishes as well.
The audience remains eager to see if the chosen artist from "Chefsache ESC 2025" can bring Germany back to the forefront of the contest, restoring confidence after last year's entry by Isaak, which, though impressive, finished at 12th place – Germany's best result since 2018.
With the stage set and excitement building, fans of the Eurovision Song Contest are encouraged to stay tuned as the competition progresses, eagerly awaiting the announcement of Germany's representative for Eurovision 2025. The nation’s selection series promises to be not just about competition but also celebration, showcasing the richness of German music talent.