The Eurovision Song Contest is a dazzling spectacle that captivates millions globally, showcasing a vibrant mix of music, culture, and creativity. As the event continues to grow in popularity, analyzing what leads to success in this competition can provide valuable insights for both artists and fans alike. This article delves deep into the elements that can elevate a performance from forgettable to unforgettable, drawing on expert opinions and statistical analyses.
The contest, which boasted approximately 163 million viewers last year, offers a unique platform for artists to showcase their talents and connect with a diverse audience. But what truly resonates with this large viewership? Musicologist Joe Bennett from Boston’s Berklee College of Music sheds light on the two primary musical styles that have emerged as frontrunners in Eurovision history: the high-energy “Euro-banger” and the emotive slow-burning ballad. The former, characterized by an upbeat tempo of over 120 BPM and a lively arrangement, has led to several memorable victories, such as Sweden’s ‘Euphoria’ and ‘Heroes.’ Conversely, slower ballads around 70 BPM, like Portugal’s ‘Amar Pelos Dois’ and the Netherlands’ ‘Arcade,’ showcase a different yet equally compelling pathway to success.
In understanding the lyrical themes prevalent in Eurovision entries, Bennett identifies six broad categories that dominate: love, unity, self-assertion, partying, history, and music. Notably, songs that focus on themes of self-assertion and empowerment tend to resonate deeply with audiences, as exemplified by Conchita Wurst’s poignant ‘Rise Like a Phoenix.’ This demonstrates that beyond melodies and rhythms, the message conveyed through lyrics can significantly impact voter sentiment.
While extravagant performances with elaborate staging can dazzle audiences, experts advise caution. Denmark’s Thomas Stengaard, who co-wrote the 2013 winner ‘Only Teardrops,’ argues that simplicity often prevails. He emphasizes that straightforward staging makes performances memorable, citing examples where basic elements outshine more complex presentations. Vocal coach Carrie Grant echoes this sentiment, pointing out that heavy staging can detract from an artist’s performance if the latter does not hold up under scrutiny.
The choice of musical key also plays a pivotal role in setting the emotional tone of the performance. Interestingly, minor-key entries have become increasingly dominant, with a staggering 85% of finalists employing this key in recent years. Bennett debunks the misconception that major keys are inherently joyous, suggesting that minor keys encapsulate greater emotional depth. This shift indicates that audiences may increasingly associate minor keys with the essence of Eurovision, impacting how songs are perceived and received.
To stand out in a competitive environment, artists are exploring creative songwriting techniques. The use of repetition is crucial in making a song memorable, but there must be a fine balance to avoid redundancy. Elizabeth Hellmuth Margulis, a music cognition researcher at Princeton, states that songs should contain unexpected twists to keep listeners engaged. Older winners, such as Bucks Fizz’s ‘Making Your Mind Up,’ highlight this concept through innovative changes, be it in key or visual presentation.
Moreover, key changes have historically injected novelty into Eurovision songs, but recent trends show a decline in this strategy among winning entries. According to Bennett, while key changes still feature in roughly one-fifth of finalists, none have triumphed since Serbia’s ‘Molitva’ in 2007. This statistic encourages songwriters to think outside the box and develop unforeseen elements that may give their entries an edge.
As the contest evolves, feedback from industry experts reveals that contestants must ask themselves a critical question: How can they stand out in a sea of talent? The UK’s entry for 2023, ‘What the Hell Just Happened,’ embodies this challenge with its intricate composition full of unexpected key changes and tempo variations.
In conclusion, succeeding in the Eurovision Song Contest involves more than just delivering a catchy tune. It requires a thoughtful approach that considers musical styles, lyrical content, staging simplicity, and innovative songwriting. For aspiring entrants and music enthusiasts, understanding these facets can provide valuable tools to enhance their Eurovision experience. The contest not only serves as a reflection of Europe’s cultural tapestry but also as a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire across borders. As we anticipate future contests, staying attuned to these trends will allow fans to appreciate the artistry behind the spectacle more profoundly. The performance that captures both the heart and the mind will undoubtedly reign supreme in this beloved contest.
