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Douze points

May 18, 2013 by Redgannet No Comments

Tonight, Malmo hosts the high camp drama that is the Eurovision Song Contest. It is a celebration of trite, ridiculous and frankly disturbing pop music. This is the Czech Republic entry for 2009;

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3CgUmzl4sk

Titles of previous winning songs have included; “Ding-a Dong”, “Boom Bang-a-bang”, “La La La”, “Diggi-Loo Diggy-Lay”. More recently, the Israeli entry, having done their homework, came to the competition with “Ping Pong”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3uNfhj66GOo

It may be that my mocking tone is brought about by UK’s abject failure over recent years in a contest which we used to dominate. Perhaps it is because there are now 39 entries (how many European countries can you name?) and the winner is elected through a biased voting system.  The winner gains the accolades and honour of hosting the countries of Greater Europe for the next contest. The loser hopes to avoid the humiliating score of “nil points”.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zqLmbsFKBDE

Our hopes are pinned on Bonny Tyler this year. Strangely, despite their recent lack of success and this year’s dirge-like entry, UK (along with other European countries that you may have heard of (and the hosts, Sweden)) get a straight run into the final without having to qualify in a semi-final.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAh9NRGNhUU

You may recall that the hosts Sweden had some pedigree in this competition when Abba won with “Waterloo”, but their Scandinavian neighbours have been guilty of some dreadful entries including , the shame of Finland, Lordi and “Hard Rock Hallelujah”

Away from the lights, costumes and make up, there will be a song resonating from thorn bushes and hedgerows across the continent. Europe’s most celebrated songster, the Nightingale, will be signalling his return to the northern breeding grounds. Without the estimated 125 million viewers, he will sing through the night. His drab outfit and sustained song will show that there is more style in substance and stamina than 3 minutes of gaudiness.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fgIzdD4yM4c

There now. Isn’t that easier on the ear? Thank you to Rosemary Parks for the Nightingale video.

Written by Redgannet
Redgannet worked for more than 35 years as a flight attendant for an international airline. He came to birding late in his career but, considering the distractions, doesn't regret the missed opportunities. He was paid to visit six continents and took full advantage of the chance to bird the world. He adopted the nom de blog, Redgannet, to avoid remonstrations from his overbearing employer, but secretly hoped that the air of mystery would make him more attractive to women. Now grounded, he is looking forward to seeing the seasons turn from a fixed point.