BBC Radio 2: Vote For The Best Eurovision Entry Of The 21st Century

Chloe Fitzgerald

5 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

4.2

Share

BBC Radio 2 has launched a highly anticipated poll, inviting listeners to choose their favourite Eurovision Song Contest entry from the 21st century. This momentous occasion allows us to revisit iconic performances, memorable moments, and the enduring legacy of some truly unforgettable songs. This article explores the key contenders and what makes each entry so special. Get ready to relive the magic and maybe even rediscover a forgotten Eurovision gem!

Contenders from the Early 2000s: A Blast from the Past

This era saw a fascinating mix of styles, setting the stage for the diverse sounds of Eurovision to come.

Remembering the Nu-Disco Era:

The early 2000s in Eurovision were marked by a surge of nu-disco and upbeat pop anthems. These catchy tunes often relied on infectious melodies and memorable dance moves.

• Lordi - "Hard Rock Hallelujah" (Finland, 2006): This shock victory redefined Eurovision, proving that unexpected genres could triumph. Keywords: Eurovision 2000s, best Eurovision songs, iconic Eurovision moments.
• Sertab Erener - "Everyway That I Can" (Turkey, 2003): A sophisticated and stylish entry that showcased Turkey's musical prowess. Keywords: Eurovision 2000s, best Eurovision ballads, unforgettable Eurovision.

The unexpected win of Lordi's "Hard Rock Hallelujah" remains a significant moment in Eurovision history. Its heavy metal sound was a stark contrast to the prevailing pop trends, proving that novelty and strong performance could overcome expectations. The song's impact on the competition's willingness to embrace diverse genres is undeniable.

The Rise of Power Ballads:

Alongside the dance tracks, the early 2000s also saw a resurgence of emotionally resonant power ballads. These songs showcased incredible vocal talent and often featured dramatic staging.

• Helena Paparizou - "My Number One" (Greece, 2005): A powerful and soulful performance that remains a fan favourite. Keywords: power ballad Eurovision, emotional Eurovision songs, best Eurovision performances.
• Annet Artani - "Wonderful Dream" (Albania, 2007): A beautifully sung ballad that showcased Artani's incredible vocal range. Keywords: Eurovision ballads, emotional Eurovision, powerful Eurovision vocals.

These ballads tapped into universal emotions, creating a lasting impact on viewers. The songwriting, vocal performances, and often breathtaking staging contributed to their enduring appeal.

Mid-2000s to 2010s: A Shift in Style and Sound

The middle period of the 21st century saw Eurovision embrace a more diverse range of sounds and styles.

The Fusion of Genres:

This era marked the beginning of a trend towards blending different genres, reflecting the increasingly globalised music scene.

• Alexander Rybak - "Fairytale" (Norway, 2009): A charming blend of folk and pop that captivated audiences worldwide. Keywords: Eurovision 2010s, modern Eurovision, unique Eurovision entries.
• Salvador Sobral - "Amar pelos dois" (Portugal, 2017): A stripped-back, soulful ballad that demonstrated the power of simplicity. Keywords: Eurovision 2010s, modern Eurovision, emotional Eurovision songs.

The fusion of genres brought a fresh sound to Eurovision, appealing to a wider audience and showcasing the versatility of the competition.

Political and Social Commentary:

Some entries during this period tackled important political and social issues, adding a deeper layer of meaning to the competition.

• Jamala - "1944" (Ukraine, 2016): A powerful song about the deportation of Crimean Tatars, sparking controversy and highlighting Eurovision's platform for social commentary. Keywords: political Eurovision, social commentary Eurovision, meaningful Eurovision songs.
• Conchita Wurst - "Rise Like a Phoenix" (Austria, 2014): A bold and empowering performance that embraced diversity and challenged societal norms. Keywords: political Eurovision, social commentary Eurovision, impactful Eurovision entries.

These songs used the Eurovision stage to raise awareness of important issues, sparking discussions and demonstrating the competition's ability to address relevant topics.

The Modern Era (2010s-Present): A New Golden Age?

The most recent entries have seen an increased focus on sophisticated production and compelling narratives.

Global Collaboration and Production:

Modern Eurovision entries often boast high-quality production values, reflecting global collaborations and professional songwriting.

• Måneskin - "Zitti e buoni" (Italy, 2021): A raw and energetic rock anthem that showcased the power of authenticity. Keywords: modern Eurovision, best Eurovision staging, high-quality Eurovision production.
• Netta - "Toy" (Israel, 2018): A quirky and catchy song with innovative staging, demonstrating the use of modern technology in performance. Keywords: modern Eurovision, best Eurovision staging, unique Eurovision entries.

The increasing professionalism in songwriting, production, and staging has elevated the overall quality of recent Eurovision entries.

The Power of Storytelling:

Many contemporary entries successfully utilize narrative to create a more profound and engaging experience.

• Duncan Laurence - "Arcade" (Netherlands, 2019): A deeply personal and emotional ballad that resonated with audiences on a profound level. Keywords: storytelling Eurovision, emotional Eurovision songs, impactful Eurovision entries.
• Kalush Orchestra - "Stefania" (Ukraine, 2022): A poignant song about a mother’s love, resonating deeply with the global audience amidst the war in Ukraine. Keywords: storytelling Eurovision, emotional Eurovision songs, impactful Eurovision entries.

These songs use powerful narratives to enhance the emotional impact and create a stronger connection with viewers.

Conclusion

The BBC Radio 2 Eurovision 21st Century Vote provides a fantastic opportunity to revisit some truly iconic performances and witness the evolution of the competition. From the nu-disco anthems of the early 2000s to the sophisticated productions of today, each era has contributed its own unique flavour to the Eurovision Song Contest. The competition's willingness to embrace diverse genres, tackle social issues, and showcase compelling storytelling has solidified its position as a major global music event.

Don't miss your chance to vote for your favourite BBC Radio 2 Eurovision 21st Century entry! Share your pick on social media using #Eurovision21stCenturyVote and let us know why your choice is the ultimate winner! Make your voice heard and participate in deciding the best Eurovision song of the 21st century. Vote now and be a part of Eurovision history!