The Eurovision Song Contest is reaching its climax in the grand final scheduled for Saturday night. Croatia, Israel, and Switzerland are the frontrunners to emerge victorious.
This year, the competition returns to its birthplace in Sweden, marking 50 years since Abba’s iconic win in 1974.
Abba’s winning song, “Waterloo,” was a unique creation that only Eurovision could showcase: a glam rock ballad narrating the Napoleonic Wars, performed by two married couples in sparkling outfits. Notably, it remains one of the greatest songs ever produced.
The golden jubilee of Abba’s victory will be commemorated in Malmö on Saturday, featuring special performances of “Waterloo” by former Eurovision champions Charlotte Perrelli, Carola, and Conchita Wurst.
However, the Eurovision competition has undergone significant transformations over the past five decades.
In 1974, only 17 countries participated in the event, each accompanied by a live orchestra.
This year features 37 contestants, presenting a diverse range of musical genres including heavy metal, hardcore techno, glossy Europop, and, in the case of Norway, a dark folk narrative involving a child’s transformation into a wolf who kills their stepmother. Quite intriguing!
Below are some of the standout moments to keep an eye on as the Grand Final unfolds on Saturday evening.
