Rob's Eurovision 2015 Predictions: Who'll take home the title?

So we've seen Producer Jonny's predictions, and now it's my attempt at predicting the top five positions in Eurovision 2015. I predicted the top 5 last year, so here's hoping I can match that this year!

The Eurovision Trophy

I'll be heading to Vienna for the competition in just a few days time, and these are the songs which I'm really excited about.

(This took me ages! Honorable mentions to Estonia and Belarus, both of whom came very close to my top five.)

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NO.5: Albania: Elhaida Dani "I'm Alive"

A country which always sits to the left of the leader board finally deserves that recognition. Elhaida Dani was a hugely popular winner of the Voice in Italy, and proves her worth with a stunning vocal performance. If Suus can achieve 5th place, then 'I'm Alive' really could be the dark horse of this year's contest.

NO.4: Norway: Morland & Deborah Scarlett "A Monster Like Me"

In a sea of duets in 2015 Morland and Deborah Scarlett produce the stand out performance. This pair have chemistry than Electro Velvet can only dream of, with the staging echoing some aspects of the Common Linnets performance last year. Sure to be well supported by the western European nations I wouldn't be surprised it tops the 200 point mark.

NO.3: Azerbaijan: Elnur Huseynov "Hour of the Wolf"

Elnur returns to Eurovision after a 7 year break and his comeback is definitely something special. It's impossible to compare 'Hour of the Wolf' to Elnur's previous attempt at Eurovision glory, but it isn't inconceivable that we could be heading back to Baku once again. A favourite with the hardcore Eurovision fans he is guaranteed big points from the Eastern nations.

NO.2: Italy: Il Volo "Grande Amore"

There is something very adorable about Il Volo. Three hot young Italians was always going to get the hearts of Eurovision fans across the continent racing, but the emotion of Grande Amore is something very hard to forget. I can already imagine the reaction in the hall when they hit that powerful final note. These guys will run Mans very close.

NO.1: Sweden: Mans Zelmerlow "Heroes"

I have always loved Mans Zelmerlow, and his entry for Eurovision this year is simply magnificent. Sounding like an Avicii/David Guetta hybrid the song wouldn't sound out of place in the UK charts and I'm sure this is the start of a very successful career for Mans outside of Scandinavia. I've said this and been wrong before, but I can't see any way this won't win come 23rd May.



So there you go, there are my predictions and I'd love to know what you think of them. Drop me a tweet on @theeuro_trip.

As we speak I'm busy packing my bag for Vienna, and you can come with me too! Make sure you follow @theeuro_trip on both Twitter and Instagram for live coverage from the Austrian capital.

Danke,

Rob

Producer Jonny's Not So Expert Guide to Eurovision #2: Who's Actually Going to Win?

So, as Rob’s continually reminded me, in a Christmas morning-esque excitement, Eurovision is not far away!

On the evening of Saturday 23 May, millions of us will flock to our TV screens to watch a fabulous festivity of colour, sequins, dance – an explosion of musical loveliness.

Now whether you agree with me on that previous statement, or not, Eurovision does take over the country. Everyone likes a good punt, so you never know, you might see a financial return on being forced to watch the contest.

I’m by no means an expert, but here are my top 5 to watch in this year’s sing-off…

NO. 5: Italy: Il Volo - “Grand Amore”

Charming, classy men (oops) with charming, classy voices, this is an excellent entry from the Italians. It’s so nice to hear a song in the native language, with the Italian lyrics enhancing the dramatic nature of the orchestral piano, drums and synths arrangement. Operatic, rock, yet poppy sound that’s make it stick in the mind.

A definite outsider with a good chance of succeeding, will the boys charm their way to the title?

NO. 4: Denmark: Anti Social Media - “The Way You Are”

The sheer irony of the band’s name makes this laughable – this track is poppy, annoyingly catchy and typical Denmark Eurovision style. It’ll get people talking on social media across the continent.

I’ll give the Danes this – it’s nice, cheery and happy, almost reminiscent of a rocked happy clappy song you’d find at the end of a kids TV show. I’m not the biggest fan, but it’s just smells of Eurovision success, just not the top prize (hopefully!).

NO. 3: Sweden: Måns Zelmerlöw “HEROES”

Year on year, Sweden always deliver when it matters, and this track is no exception.

Mixing the wild west twangy guitar and dense dance beat at the start, into a catchy, familiar tap your foot to the beat techno track, I’m a big fan of Heroes. This’ll appeal to those in the middle – an occasional fan of the traditional ballad, just sped up with a 4/4 to the floor foundation.

This sounds like the modern ballad, hitting the Eurovision contest strong, and I like it! Top 3 for me.

NO. 2: Russia: Polina Gagarina “Million Voices”

Russia’s never been popular politically, but with previous history with a number of European countries and allegations of block voting for the former Soviet state, their acts have always performed decently in the contest.

This song is an anthem, hypocritically not possible in the actual country (oops), for freedom, unity and speaking out for justice. Could this be a battle cry to show Russia’s strength, or secret cry of protest? Either way its catchy, and should do well.

NO. 1: Australia: Guy Sebastian "Tonight Again"

Now, I know, this is a controversial choice, THEY’RE NOT EVEN IN EUROPE.

But, the Aussies are joining us for this year’s contest, and I have to say I’m a massive fan of the track! The mix of big drums, sax in the back and soulful/swing style makes it stick in my mind. Incredibly catchy with an unknown sense of ‘cool’ about it – not something we usually find in a Eurovision track (c’mon lets be honest with ourselves!).

They go and steal The Ashes and now they might, just MIGHT, win Eurovision. Nice return on a bet made on these lot I’d imagine!

STAY TUNED TO THE EURO TRIP

So those are my tips, but as with every race, some random outsider may pop up and steal the show. Could it be Electric Velvet for the UK? Probably not. I’d hope for a top 10 finish, mind.

Here at Euro Trip HQ we can’t wait for the contest, and we’re delighted to be bringing you exclusive access to the heart of Eurovision from the heart of Vienna, in the days leading up to Europe’s musical bout.

We’ll be releasing more details, but have a look out on Twitter, blogs and beyond as Rob (and his lovely girlfriend Emma) bring you lots of Eurovision loveliness from Austria.

Jonny

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Is Europe better at spotting hit music than the UK?

With Omi's Cheerleader making its way to the top of the UK chart yesterday, it is clear that European music is having more of an impact on the music scene of our nation than ever before. But is the UK slow to spot an emerging #1 hit?

While Omi himself may have been born and raised in Jamaica, it was Denmark which first sent him to the top of their charts in January of this year (as heard on the European Music Chart). The surrounding Scandinavian nations soon followed suit, showing that in some cases, the UK is actually a long way behind other countries when it comes to spotting a chart hit.

Omi is the current UK #1 with 'Cheerleader'

Take a further look at this Sunday's Official Chart and you will see a number of other tracks, previously featured on the Euro Trip, which are only just making waves across the UK. Kygo's wonderfully summery 'Firestone' was a chart topper in Norway over three months ago, while AronChupa's mind puzzling 'I'm an Albatroz' has been huge in Europe for weeks now.

You only have to look at two massive summer anthems from last year to exemplify my point. Remember Mr Probz's 'Waves' and Nico and Vinz' massive track 'Am I Wrong?'. Both originated in the Netherlands and Norway respectively.

As the European mainland continues to have more of an influence on the UK music chart, I thought I'd have a go at predicting the next songs which will soon be making their way across the channel and making it big on our shores.

Kygo ft. Parson James - Stole the Show

The follow up to 'Firestone' Kygo has collaborated with the stunning vocals of American singer Parson James. The track entered the UK chart at #49 this week, and will continue to rise as Kygo's reputation looks set to increase.

Klingande - Riva

This is better than Jubel! There you go, I said it. With the weather getting warmer and the evenings getting longer, this track is the perfect accompaniment to relax to in the summer sun. Give this one a couple of plays and you'll fall in love with it.

Mans Zelmerlow - Heroes

Yes, I know it's from Eurovision. 'Heroes' looks set to take the continent by storm should it win Eurovision 2015 as expected. The track has a wonderfully modern feel to it, channeling both Avicii and David Guetta's recent work. Mans is a huge superstar in Sweden, and I have a feeling we'll be cheering his name over the next few months.

Your latest new music dose, out now!

Brand new music in the latest edition of the Euro Trip from Melendi, DJ Gromee and Eurovision 2010 interval act Madcon.

There's also loads of Eurovision news to talk about in the run up to the contest, plus the latest #1s from across the continent in the European music chart.

Get following us on Twitter now, @theeuro_trip.

The Euro Trip : Episode 8 by The Euro Trip on Mixcloud

The Euro Trip debuts on ESC News Radio

I'm delighted to announce the Euro Trip will now be broadcast on brand new radio station ESC News Radio!

Having worked on the show for over a year now, it really means a lot that the quality of the podcast has been recognised.

The idea that thousands more people across Europe can now listen to the Euro Trip really is exciting!

But fear not, I'll still be podcasting each show, the first of which is now available for you to listen to now - featuring new music from Stefanie Heinzmann, Kendji Girac and Klingande.

Enjoy!
 

The Euro Trip : Episode 7 by The Euro Trip on Mixcloud

Producer Jonny's Not So Expert Guide to Eurovision #1: Duets

When Rob asked me to do this, I looked surprised, but willingly decided to take up the challenge. In the weeks leading up to Vienna’s wonderful contest I’ll be providing an ‘alternative’ look at some of the components of this continental bout – alternative in the sense that I come from a classic rock and indie loving background, with a bad pronunciation of European names. So, enjoy…

TWO TO TANGO?
With the UK’s entry announced on Saturday, you’ll have noticed that Electro Velvet are composed of two singers: Alex Larke and Bianca Nicholas. Now their track ‘Still In Love With You’ has drawn across a variety of opinions (I’m holding out hope), but it coincidentally brings us to a topic of interest: Duets Yes? No? Should we, could we take the risk? All of the thoughts crossing the musical minds of our continent. Well my expert friends and average music lovers a like, have a look at these and maybe you’ll find an answer to those dilemmas…

1. SING, LITTLE BIRDIE – PEARL CARR & TEDDY JOHNSON (UNITED KINGDOM, 1959) Placing 2nd all the way back in 1959, this is not your typical Eurovision entry! Pearl and Teddy show how all things Euro have changed over the years. No ferrets, Irish twins and silly violins – just good old swing. One to tap your foot to…



2. DUETTT – ELIZABETH ANDREASSENN & JAN WERNER DANIELSEN (NORWAY, 1994) Now I know what you’re thinking….we don’t actually know what they’re singing (Norwegian translators speak now!). BUT embrace this please – its not often that a country sings in their own language. Its passionate, vaguely romantic and soppy. Good old cheese ain’t so bad once in a while, ey?



3. JAN JAN – INGA & ANUSH (ARMENIA, 2009)
 Everybody must be ready…. Apparently. A more modern entry, Amernia’s Jan Jan shows of the characteristics of the delightfully vibrant Inga & Anush. I see the song as a case of marmite – personally I find it difficult, but no doubt someone will embrace the craziness, and those endlessly spinning dancers.



4. IN A MOMENT LIKE THIS – CHANEE & N’EVERGREEN (DENMARK, 2010)
In a week where Robin Thicke and Pharrell Williams’ Blurred Lines was found to have copied a famous Marvin Gaye track, I can’t help but notice the similarities in this track’s catchy riff with The Police’s classic ‘Every Breath You Take’. But, despite that, this has to be my favourite. Yes, slightly cheesy, pyrotechnics everywhere, but a good job from the Danes….and its in English, hooray!



Got a duet you’d like to share? Drop us a tweet @TheEuro_Trip and stay up to date with the latest Eurovision news. I’ll be tweeting the odd bit about the contest on my personal twitter too, that’s @jfreeman_93.

I’ll be back with another alternative guide soon, on goodness knows what, but for now I’ll let my expert presenter resume normal service. Jonny

Everybody calm down about the UK's Eurovision 2015 entry

Firstly, let's get things clear. Electro Velvet and their song 'Still in Love with You' isn't my taste in music. Not that it counts for much of course. I wasn't a fan of Marie N in 2002, Lena in 2010 or Ell and Nicki in 2011, didn't stop them becoming winners though did it?

When I sat down for the reveal on Saturday night, I was left very confused by our choice, what place does 'Electro Swing' have in the Eurovision Song Contest? We're so used to ballads and up-tempo pop numbers that it came as a huge shock, a huge gamble.

But in a year like this one, where every song is a middle-of-the-road ballad, one thing is for sure; Electro Velvet WILL stand out on 23rd May. The song is already on track to be the most viewed of any entry so far this year on You Tube. Whatever the reason, the voting public of Europe will be well aware of our song come the Contest itself.

Electro Velvet - Alex Larke and Bianca Nicholas

Of course, their performance on the night is everything. Molly was one of the favourites to win last year, but her nervy performance left her languishing in 17th position. To reinforce this point look no further than Amaury Vassili, favourite to win for France in Dusseldorf, his poor routine led to a disappointing 15th place finish. On the opposite end of the spectrum, look at past winners. Loreen, Eimielle and Conchita all captured the hearts of the continent with the staging and live performance of their entries.

All those who say 'let the public decide' when it comes to our entry, let me remind you of the last time all aspects of the decision were left to the people of the UK. Andy Abraham, final position, 25th.

Give the BBC some slack too, their working on a fraction of the budget of recent years. Gone are the days we could plough hundreds of thousands of pounds into an entry for Eurovision. The corporation as a whole are facing huge cuts and massive change, and let's be honest, how well we do in Eurovision is going to be well down the list in terms of their priorities for 2015.

So with Vienna now just a couple of months away, let's get behind Electro Velvet. The BBC have made a huge gamble this year, and should be applauded for being so brave with the song selection.

I'm a Eurovision fan, and whether or not the UK succeeds in the Contest, that will always be the case. But come that three minutes on the 23rd May we all need to wave our union jacks with pride. We owe our nation that at least.