1998
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MY #1 SONG "Is Always Over Now?" by Dawn Martin is an emotional ballad that was Ireland's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest in 1998. The song features a heartfelt melody and tender instrumentation, allowing Martin’s expressive vocals to shine. Lyrically, it explores themes of love and loss, questioning whether a relationship has truly ended or if there is hope for reconciliation. The song’s poignant message and melancholic tone add to its emotional depth. At Eurovision, "Is Always Over Now?" represented Ireland following the country's dominant success in the contest during the 1990s. However, it did not achieve the same level of impact as previous Irish entries, finishing in 9th place. Despite this, the song remains a well-remembered part of Ireland’s Eurovision history, appreciated for its sincerity and elegant performance. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1997
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MY #1 SONG "Fiumi di parole" by Jalisse is an emotional and dramatic Italian pop ballad that won the Sanremo Music Festival in 1997. Performed by the duo Alessandra Drusian and Fabio Ricci, the song features a powerful melody and a passionate vocal delivery that highlight the intensity of its lyrics. The title, meaning "Rivers of Words," reflects the song’s theme of communication breakdown in a troubled relationship, where words flow endlessly but fail to bring true understanding. Following its victory at Sanremo, the song represented Italy at the Eurovision Song Contest 1997, where it finished in fourth place. It became a hit in Italy, reaching high positions on the national charts, and remains one of the most memorable Italian Eurovision entries. Despite its success, Jalisse struggled to maintain mainstream popularity, but "Fiumi di parole" has endured as a beloved classic in Italian pop music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1996
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MY #1 SONG "I evighet" by Elisabeth Andreassen is a heartfelt Norwegian ballad that gained widespread recognition through its participation in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1996. The song, performed with elegance and emotion, features a sweeping melody and powerful orchestration, highlighting Andreassen's strong and expressive vocals. Lyrically, it speaks about eternal love and devotion, capturing a sense of timeless affection and deep emotional connection. The song achieved notable success, finishing in second place at Eurovision, which remains one of Norway’s best results in the contest. It also performed well on the Norwegian charts, further cementing Andreassen’s reputation as a respected artist in Scandinavian music. "I evighet" remains a cherished song among Eurovision fans and continues to be regarded as one of Norway’s standout entries in the competition's history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1995
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MY #1 SONG "Se på mig" by Jan Johansen is a heartfelt Swedish ballad that gained widespread popularity after its debut in 1995. The song, known for its emotional depth and powerful melody, tells a story of longing and the desire to be truly seen and understood by a loved one. Johansen's sincere vocal delivery, combined with the song’s soaring chorus, makes it a standout ballad that resonates with listeners. The song achieved major success in Sweden, winning Melodifestivalen 1995 and representing the country at the Eurovision Song Contest, where it finished in a strong third place. Following its Eurovision performance, "Se på mig" topped the Swedish charts and became one of Jan Johansen’s signature hits, securing its place as a beloved classic in Swedish pop music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1994
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MY #1 SONG "To nie ja" by Edyta Górniak is a powerful ballad that gained international recognition as Poland's debut entry in the Eurovision Song Contest 1994. The song showcases Górniak's impressive vocal range and emotional delivery, making it one of the most memorable performances of the competition. Its lyrics tell the story of a person rejecting false accusations and standing by their true identity, conveying a sense of strength and resilience. At Eurovision, the song achieved remarkable success, finishing in second place - the highest ranking Poland has ever received in the contest. Following the competition, "To nie ja" became a major hit in Poland and gained popularity in other European countries, establishing Edyta Górniak as a leading figure in Polish pop music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1993
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MY #1 SONG "Better the Devil You Know" by Sonia is an upbeat pop song that represented the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1993. With its energetic melody and danceable rhythm, the track perfectly complements Sonia's powerful and charismatic vocal performance. The lyrics revolve around the idea of choosing familiarity over uncertainty in love, suggesting that even a flawed relationship can be preferable to the unknown. The song achieved notable success, finishing second at Eurovision and marking one of the UK's stronger results in the contest during the 1990s. Following the competition, it gained commercial traction, charting well in the UK and several other European countries. Its lively production and memorable chorus helped solidify Sonia’s place in pop music history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1992
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MY #1 SONG "Why Me?" by Linda Martin is an emotional ballad that won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1992 for Ireland. Written by Johnny Logan, the song features a heartfelt melody and powerful vocals, capturing themes of love, gratitude, and disbelief at finding true happiness. Linda Martin’s passionate performance and the song’s sweeping orchestration helped create a memorable and moving atmosphere. Following its Eurovision victory, "Why Me?" achieved commercial success, reaching high positions on charts in several European countries. The song became one of Linda Martin’s most well-known tracks and contributed to Ireland’s strong legacy in the contest, marking the beginning of the country's dominant run in Eurovision during the 1990s. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1991
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MY #1 SONG "Fångad av en stormvind" by Carola is an energetic and uplifting Swedish pop song that won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1991. With its powerful melody and dynamic performance, the song captures a sense of passion and determination. The lyrics describe being swept away by love like a storm, emphasizing emotions that are intense and unstoppable. Carola's strong vocals and charismatic stage presence added to the song's dramatic impact. Following its Eurovision victory, "Fångad av en stormvind" became a major hit in Sweden, topping the charts and reinforcing Carola’s status as one of the country’s most successful pop artists. The song also gained international recognition, further cementing its place as a classic in Eurovision history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1990
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MY #1 SONG "Quand je te rêve" by Céline Carzo is a heartfelt ballad that represented Luxembourg in the Eurovision Song Contest 1990. The song is a tender expression of longing and love, with poetic lyrics that evoke the deep emotions tied to dreaming of a cherished person. Céline Carzo’s gentle yet powerful delivery enhances the song's emotional depth, creating a captivating and intimate atmosphere. While the song's romantic theme and elegant orchestration were appreciated, it achieved moderate success in the contest, finishing 13th. Despite its placement, "Quand je te rêve" remains a memorable entry for its sincerity and Carzo’s touching performance, highlighting Luxembourg's rich Eurovision history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1989
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MY #1 SONG "Nur ein Lied" by Thomas Forstner is a heartfelt ballad that gained recognition for its emotional depth and powerful delivery. Representing Austria at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1989, the song explores themes of vulnerability and the profound impact of music as a universal language. With its poetic lyrics and soaring melody, the track highlights Forstner's vocal range and ability to convey genuine emotion. The song achieved considerable success, becoming one of Austria's more memorable Eurovision entries. Its performance on the contest stage earned it a respectable fifth-place finish, marking a high point in Forstner's career and securing its place in Austrian pop music history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1988
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MY #1 SONG "Go" by Scott Fitzgerald is a poignant ballad that captivated audiences with its emotional depth and powerful delivery. Representing the United Kingdom in the Eurovision Song Contest 1988, the song tells the story of heartbreak and longing, as the protagonist pleads with a loved one not to leave. The heartfelt lyrics, combined with Fitzgerald’s soulful voice, create an evocative and memorable performance. Despite narrowly missing the top spot in the Eurovision final, finishing second by a single point, "Go" enjoyed considerable success and became a cherished piece of the UK’s Eurovision legacy. Its strong narrative and moving melody have ensured its place as a classic in the contest’s history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1987
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MY #1 SONG "Hold Me Now" by Johnny Logan is a heartfelt ballad that captured the hearts of listeners when it was released in 1987. Written and performed by Logan, the song conveys deep emotion through its poignant lyrics, which reflect the pain of a love that is about to end. Its powerful melody, combined with Logan's soulful vocal delivery, creates an unforgettable musical experience. The song achieved remarkable success, winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1987 and becoming an international hit. It topped charts across Europe and remains one of Logan's most iconic works. Its universal theme of love and loss continues to resonate, making it a timeless classic in pop music history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1986
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MY #1 SONG "J'aime la vie" by Sandra Kim is a vibrant and uplifting pop song that celebrates the joy of living. Performed by the young Belgian singer at just 13 years old, the song combines an infectious melody with optimistic lyrics about embracing life and its possibilities. Sandra Kim's powerful and mature voice, paired with the song’s upbeat rhythm, captivated audiences and brought an air of youthful exuberance to the performance. Released in 1986, the song achieved widespread success after winning the Eurovision Song Contest, making Sandra Kim the youngest-ever winner in the competition's history. "J'aime la vie" topped charts in several European countries and remains a timeless anthem of positivity and youthful energy, securing its place as a classic in Eurovision and pop music history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1985
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MY #1 SONG "Für alle" by Wind is a heartfelt German pop ballad that gained widespread attention for its emotional depth and melodic charm. Released in 1985, the song features smooth harmonies and a gentle arrangement that highlights its uplifting and unifying message. The lyrics express a longing for togetherness and peace, appealing to universal values and resonating deeply with audiences. The song achieved notable chart success, becoming a beloved hit in Germany and beyond. Its popularity was further cemented by its performance in the Eurovision Song Contest 1985, where it represented Germany and secured second place. "Für alle" remains a timeless classic, celebrated for its warm sentiment and enduring appeal. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1984
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MY #1 SONG "Det' lige det" by Hot Eyes is a lively and upbeat Danish pop song that became a defining hit of the 1980s in Denmark. Performed by Kirsten Siggaard and Søren Bundgaard, the track combines catchy melodies with an energetic delivery, showcasing the duo's signature charm and chemistry. The song’s lyrics convey a cheerful message about embracing life's simple joys and staying optimistic, which resonated with listeners at the time. Released in 1984, "Det' lige det" achieved significant success in Denmark, climbing the charts and solidifying Hot Eyes as one of the country's most beloved pop acts. Its infectious rhythm and relatable theme made it a favorite among audiences, contributing to its lasting appeal in Danish pop music history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1983
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MY #1 SONG "Främling" by Carola is a Swedish pop classic that captivated audiences with its heartfelt melody and emotive delivery. Released in 1983, the song became an instant sensation, representing Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest and finishing in a remarkable third place. The song's lyrics explore themes of longing and connection, addressing the feelings of encountering someone who feels both distant and familiar. This emotional resonance, paired with Carola's powerful and expressive voice, struck a chord with listeners. Commercially, "Främling" was a phenomenal success, topping the Swedish charts and becoming one of the best-selling singles in the country's history. It solidified Carola's place as one of Sweden's most iconic artists and remains a cherished part of her repertoire, celebrated for its timeless appeal and emotional depth. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1982
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MY #1 SONG "Ein bisschen Frieden," performed by Nicole, is a heartfelt ballad that won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1982, marking Germany's first victory in the competition. The song, which translates to "A Little Peace," delivers a poignant message of hope and a longing for harmony in a world marked by conflict. Its gentle melody, paired with Nicole's sincere performance, resonated deeply with audiences. The song's universal appeal extended beyond Eurovision, achieving significant commercial success. It topped the charts in multiple countries, including Germany, Austria, and the United Kingdom, and became a symbol of unity during a time of political tension in Europe. Nicole also recorded the song in multiple languages, further amplifying its global reach. "Ein bisschen Frieden" remains a timeless anthem advocating for peace and understanding. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1981
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MY #1 SONG "Making Your Mind Up" by Bucks Fizz is an iconic pop track that became a defining moment in music history. Released in 1981, the song was the UK’s entry for that year’s Eurovision Song Contest, where it won in spectacular fashion. Known for its upbeat tempo and catchy chorus, the track combines vibrant energy with playful lyrics, encouraging listeners to make decisions confidently and embrace spontaneity. A key moment in the performance was the now-famous skirt-ripping routine, which added a touch of theatricality and helped secure the group's victory. The song’s infectious charm resonated widely, propelling it to the top of the UK Singles Chart, where it held the number-one spot for three weeks. It also achieved international success, charting in several other countries and solidifying Bucks Fizz as a pop sensation. "Making Your Mind Up" remains a beloved classic, remembered for its cheerful spirit and memorable staging. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1980
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MY #1 SONG "What's Another Year" is a heartfelt ballad performed by Irish singer Johnny Logan. Released in 1980, the song became widely known after winning the Eurovision Song Contest that year, marking Logan's first of three Eurovision victories. The song's poignant lyrics, written by Shay Healy, explore themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, resonating deeply with audiences across Europe. Backed by a gentle, melodic arrangement, Logan's emotive vocal delivery adds to the song's emotional impact. The song achieved significant commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and topping charts in several other European countries. Its universal message of patience and enduring love made it a timeless classic, solidifying Logan's status as one of Eurovision's most iconic winners. "What's Another Year" remains one of his most beloved hits, frequently revisited in retrospectives of Eurovision's greatest moments. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1979
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MY #1 SONG "Hallelujah" by Milk & Honey is a classic pop ballad that gained international recognition after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1979. Performed by the Israeli group, the song is known for its uplifting melody, heartfelt lyrics, and harmonious vocal arrangement. The lyrics convey a message of hope, unity, and gratitude, often interpreted as a call for peace and togetherness. Musically, "Hallelujah" blends gentle orchestration with a memorable, sing-along chorus that resonated with audiences worldwide. Its universal message and emotional delivery made it one of the most iconic and enduring songs in Eurovision history. Following its Eurovision victory, "Hallelujah" achieved commercial success, charting in multiple countries across Europe and beyond. It became a cultural symbol of hope, frequently performed at commemorative and national events. The song's legacy continues, with various artists covering it in multiple languages, ensuring its place as one of the most beloved Eurovision anthems of all time. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1978
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MY #1 SONG "Abanibi" is a lively disco-influenced pop song performed by Israeli singer Izhar Cohen and the group The Alphabeta. The song, with its catchy rhythm and playful vibe, features lyrics inspired by a children's language game in Hebrew, where syllables are rearranged to create a secret code. This playful concept is reflected in the title itself, which comes from the Hebrew word "ani," meaning "I" or "me." The song conveys themes of love, innocence, and childhood nostalgia, all wrapped in an infectious danceable beat. Released as Israel's entry for the 1978 Eurovision Song Contest, "Abanibi" captivated audiences across Europe with its unique charm and energetic stage performance. It ultimately won the contest, marking Israel's first Eurovision victory. Following its success, the song charted in several European countries, achieving commercial success and cementing its place as a classic in Eurovision history. Its legacy endures as one of the most memorable and beloved winners of the competition. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1977
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MY #1 SONG "De mallemolen" is a poignant Dutch song performed by Heddy Lester, best known for representing the Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest in 1977. The song features a gentle, theatrical melody with a waltz-like rhythm that evokes a sense of nostalgia. Its lyrics, rich in metaphor, compare life to a "mallemolen" (a merry-go-round), symbolizing the cyclical and often unpredictable nature of human experience. Through vivid imagery and emotive delivery, the song reflects on themes of destiny, routine, and the passage of time. Despite its memorable performance and the depth of its message, "De mallemolen" achieved moderate chart success. While it resonated with Eurovision audiences, it did not become a major commercial hit in the Netherlands or beyond. Nevertheless, it remains a beloved entry in the history of Dutch Eurovision songs, remembered for its thoughtful storytelling and Heddy Lester's distinctive voice. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1976
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MY #1 SONG "Save Your Kisses for Me" by Brotherhood of Man is a cheerful pop song that became one of the most iconic hits of the 1970s. Released in 1976, the song is best known for its infectious melody, playful rhythm, and the twist revealed in its closing lines. The lyrics portray a person bidding an affectionate farewell to a loved one, who is eventually revealed to be a young child, adding a heartwarming twist to the romantic-sounding premise. The song achieved massive commercial success, winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1976 for the United Kingdom. It topped the charts in multiple countries, including the UK, where it became one of the best-selling singles of the decade. Its catchy chorus and endearing message made it a timeless favorite, with enduring popularity at retro music events and Eurovision celebrations. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1975
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MY #1 SONG "Gelukkig zijn" by Ann Christy is a heartfelt Belgian pop song that captures the essence of longing for happiness amidst life's challenges. Released in 1975, the song became one of Ann Christy's most beloved hits, praised for its emotional depth and relatable message. The lyrics express a quiet desire for joy and contentment, resonating with listeners through themes of hope and perseverance. Musically, "Gelukkig zijn" combines soft melodies with Christy's warm, tender vocals, creating an intimate atmosphere that amplifies the song's emotional impact. Its poignant delivery and universal message contributed to its enduring appeal. Although it was Ann Christy's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest in 1975, the song did not achieve significant success in the competition, finishing in 15th place. However, it found greater acclaim in Belgium, where it became a classic in the Flemish music canon. Over the years, "Gelukkig zijn" has maintained its status as a timeless ballad, celebrated as one of Ann Christy's signature songs and a cherished piece of Belgian musical heritage. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1974
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MY #1 SONG "Waterloo" by ABBA is one of the most iconic pop songs of all time, known for its infectious melody, upbeat rhythm, and memorable lyrics. Released in 1974, it marked a turning point in the group's career as it won the Eurovision Song Contest that year, propelling ABBA to international fame. The song uses the historical reference of Napoleon's defeat at the Battle of Waterloo as a metaphor for romantic surrender, portraying love as an inevitable conquest. Its playful tone and catchy chorus made it a commercial hit, topping charts across Europe and reaching the top 10 in the United States. "Waterloo" is widely regarded as one of the greatest Eurovision songs ever and remains a defining track in ABBA's legendary discography. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1973
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MY #1 SONG "Eres tú" by Mocedades is a timeless Spanish-language ballad known for its melodic charm and heartfelt lyrics. Released in 1973, the song was Spain's entry in the Eurovision Song Contest, where it achieved second place, but it went on to gain far greater international acclaim. Its lyrics celebrate love, comparing it to natural elements like the wind, water, and fire, evoking a sense of purity and universal connection. The song's gentle rhythm, rich harmonies, and emotional delivery helped it become a global hit. "Eres tú" charted impressively worldwide, reaching the top 10 of the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States — a rare feat for a Spanish-language song at the time. It also found success in various European and Latin American countries, solidifying its status as one of the most iconic Spanish ballads of all time. The song remains a beloved classic, often associated with themes of love, nostalgia, and cultural pride. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1972
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MY #1 SONG "Après toi" is a powerful ballad performed by Greek singer Vicky Leandros, which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1972, representing Luxembourg. The song, sung in French, conveys the deep emotional pain of a woman struggling to move on after the end of a profound love. Its lyrics reflect themes of heartbreak, longing, and the lingering presence of a lost partner, capturing the universal experience of unrequited love. Musically, "Après toi" is characterized by its sweeping orchestration and Leandros' emotive, soaring vocals, which emphasize the intensity of the song’s message. Its poignant melody and dramatic arrangement made it a memorable and timeless entry in Eurovision history. Following its victory, the song achieved significant commercial success across Europe. It topped the charts in several countries, including the Netherlands and Belgium, and became a top 10 hit in many others, solidifying Vicky Leandros' status as an international star. The song remains one of the most iconic and beloved winners in Eurovision’s legacy. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1971
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MY #1 SONG "Un banc, un arbre, une rue" is a French chanson performed by Séverine, which won the Eurovision Song Contest in 1971, representing Monaco. The song is a poignant reflection on the passage of time and the fading of childhood dreams. Through its evocative lyrics, it captures a sense of nostalgia, with the imagery of a bench, a tree, and a street symbolizing the simplicity and innocence of youth. The orchestral arrangement and Séverine's emotive delivery emphasize the song's emotional depth. The song achieved considerable commercial success following its Eurovision victory. It topped the charts in several European countries, including France, Germany, and Norway, and became one of the most memorable and enduring Eurovision winners. Its timeless message and melodic charm have allowed it to maintain a lasting legacy in the world of European pop and chanson music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1970
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MY #1 SONG "Knock, Knock Who's There?" is a song performed by Welsh singer Mary Hopkin, released in 1970. The song, written by John Carter and Geoff Stephens, is characterized by its upbeat melody, catchy chorus, and playful tone. Lyrically, it reflects themes of lost love and the emotional struggle of moving on, with the "knock, knock" motif symbolizing the arrival of change or new opportunities. The song was the United Kingdom's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 1970, where it achieved a respectable second-place finish. Its success extended beyond Eurovision, charting well in several countries. In the UK Singles Chart, it peaked at number 2, solidifying Mary Hopkin's status as a prominent figure in British pop music during that era. The song remains one of her most recognizable hits and a nostalgic favorite for fans of classic Eurovision entries. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1969
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MY #1 SONG "Boom Bang-a-Bang" is a catchy pop song performed by British singer Lulu. Released in 1969, the song is best known for its upbeat melody, playful lyrics, and infectious sing-along chorus that mimics the sounds of a beating heart. The song's lighthearted theme revolves around the joyful excitement and thrill of love, with the "boom bang-a-bang" phrase symbolizing the intensity of romantic feelings. The track achieved significant success, notably winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1969, a year that saw an unprecedented four-way tie for first place. Its victory brought Lulu international recognition, and the song became a commercial hit, charting in several countries. In the UK, it reached No. 2 on the Singles Chart and enjoyed popularity across Europe. With its catchy hook and playful charm, "Boom Bang-a-Bang" remains one of Lulu's most iconic hits and a memorable entry in Eurovision history. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1968
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MY #1 SONG "Det börjar verka kärlek banne mig" is a classic Swedish pop song performed by Claes-Göran Hederström. Released in 1968, the song is best known for its participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, where it represented Sweden and finished in a respectable 5th place. The title translates to "It’s Beginning to Look Like Love, Darn It," reflecting the playful and lighthearted nature of the lyrics. The song captures the hesitant yet inevitable feeling of falling in love, blending humor with genuine emotion. Musically, it features a catchy melody, upbeat rhythm, and orchestral arrangement typical of the era's pop style. The song became a major hit in Sweden, reaching the top of the charts and earning widespread recognition. Its charm and nostalgic appeal have made it a beloved classic in Swedish music history. Claes-Göran Hederström's charismatic performance and the song's memorable refrain have kept it a fan favorite, often associated with the golden era of Eurovision. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1967
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MY #1 SONG "Puppet on a String" is a lively pop song performed by British singer Sandie Shaw. Released in 1967, it is best known as the United Kingdom's winning entry for the Eurovision Song Contest that year. The song features an upbeat, playful melody with a distinctive oompah-style rhythm, reflecting the feel of European carnival music. Lyrically, it tells the story of a woman who feels as though she is being controlled by love, much like a puppet on a string. This theme of romantic vulnerability is presented with a mix of charm and resignation, capturing the emotional highs and lows of love. The song was a massive commercial success, reaching number one on the UK Singles Chart and topping charts in several other European countries, including Ireland, Germany, and Austria. It became one of Sandie Shaw's signature hits and remains one of the most iconic Eurovision entries of all time. Its catchy tune, lighthearted energy, and memorable performance have made it a lasting symbol of the 1960s pop era. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1966
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MY #1 SONG "Merci chérie" is a classic ballad performed by Austrian singer-songwriter Udo Jürgens. Released in 1966, the song is best known for winning the Eurovision Song Contest that same year, marking Austria's first victory in the competition. With its gentle melody and heartfelt lyrics, "Merci chérie" expresses themes of love, farewell, and gratitude. The emotional depth of the song, combined with Jürgens' rich vocal delivery, struck a chord with audiences across Europe. Following its Eurovision success, the song achieved significant chart success, reaching high positions in several European countries. "Merci chérie" remains one of Udo Jürgens' most iconic and enduring hits, often regarded as a timeless example of the classic Eurovision ballad style. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1965
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MY #1 SONG "Poupée de cire, poupée de son" is a French pop song performed by France Gall, written and composed by Serge Gainsbourg. Released in 1965, the song became famous for winning the Eurovision Song Contest that year, representing Luxembourg. With its catchy melody and playful yet sophisticated lyrics, the song marked a departure from the sentimental ballads typical of Eurovision at the time. The title, which translates to "Wax doll, sawdust doll," reflects the themes of superficiality and the pressures of fame, with the doll symbolizing a young pop star controlled by the music industry. The lyrics, layered with double meanings, highlight the loss of innocence and self-identity often experienced by artists in the public eye. Commercially, the song was a major success, charting in several European countries and becoming one of France Gall's signature hits. It is often regarded as a groundbreaking entry in Eurovision history, as it showcased a more modern, contemporary sound that would influence future editions of the contest. The song remains a classic of 1960s French pop music and a defining moment in France Gall's career. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1964
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MY #1 SONG "Warum nur, warum?" is a poignant ballad by Austrian singer-songwriter Udo Jürgens, released in 1964. The song features a melancholic melody paired with heartfelt lyrics that explore themes of love, loss, and the emotional turmoil of unanswered questions. Jürgens' rich, emotive voice adds depth to the song's reflective tone, making it one of his most memorable early works. The track gained significant attention after being Austria's entry in the Eurovision Song Contest 1964, where it finished sixth. Despite not winning, the song became a commercial success, charting in several European countries and solidifying Jürgens' status as a rising star in the German-speaking music scene. "Warum nur, warum?" is often regarded as a classic example of Jürgens' ability to blend lyrical introspection with broad emotional appeal. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1963
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MY #1 SONG "Dansevise" is a Danish song performed by Grethe and Jørgen Ingmann, which gained international recognition after winning the Eurovision Song Contest in 1963. The song is a soft, jazz-inspired ballad characterized by its gentle guitar arrangement and Grethe's delicate, emotional vocals. Its title translates to "Dance Ballad," reflecting its dreamy, poetic lyrics that evoke images of love, longing, and the fleeting nature of time. Musically, "Dansevise" stands out for its understated elegance, breaking from the more theatrical style typical of Eurovision entries at the time. This subtle approach, combined with its melodic charm, helped it capture the attention of juries across Europe. Its victory marked Denmark's first win in the contest's history, solidifying its place in Eurovision folklore. Commercially, "Dansevise" saw modest chart success, especially in Scandinavian countries, where it became a beloved classic. Its win also contributed to Denmark's growing reputation on the European music scene, influencing future Danish entries in the contest. To this day, "Dansevise" is remembered as one of Eurovision's most iconic and artistically refined winners. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1962
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MY #1 SONG "Sol och vår" is a Swedish song performed by Inger Berggren, known for its lively melody and bittersweet theme. The title translates to "Sun and Spring," symbolizing charm and deceit, as the song tells the story of a woman who is tricked by a charming con man during a springtime romance. The playful yet cautionary lyrics, combined with Berggren's expressive vocals, give the song a memorable blend of lightheartedness and underlying seriousness. The song was Sweden's entry in the Eurovision Song Contest 1962, where it finished in a respectable 7th place. Its catchy tune and engaging storyline helped it achieve popularity in Sweden, making it one of the more enduring entries from the early years of the contest. "Sol och vår" remains a nostalgic classic in Swedish pop music history, celebrated for its clever storytelling and timeless charm. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1961
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MY #1 SONG "Are You Sure" by The Allisons is a heartfelt pop ballad that captured attention with its tender harmonies and poignant lyrics. The song explores the uncertainty and heartbreak of love, posing the question of whether a partner’s love is genuine or fading. Its melodic simplicity and emotional resonance made it relatable to listeners, showcasing the duo’s vocal blend and sincere delivery. The song gained prominence as the United Kingdom's entry in the 1961 Eurovision Song Contest, where it finished in second place. Beyond the contest, it achieved commercial success, reaching number 2 on the UK Singles Chart and staying in the charts for several weeks. This enduring popularity cemented its place as a memorable classic of early 1960s pop music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1960
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MY #1 SONG "Wat een geluk" by Rudi Carrell is a lively and charming song that captures the essence of joy and optimism. Released in 1960, the song's title translates to "What a Luck" in English, and its cheerful melody and catchy lyrics celebrate the simple pleasures and surprises life can bring. The upbeat rhythm, combined with Carrell's charismatic delivery, made it a standout hit in its time. The song achieved notable success, becoming a chart-topping hit in the Netherlands. Its widespread popularity established Rudi Carrell not only as a beloved entertainer but also as a prominent figure in Dutch music and television history. "Wat een geluk" remains a delightful example of lighthearted European pop from the early 1960s, evoking nostalgia and a sense of carefree happiness. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1959
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MY #1 SONG "Sing Little Birdie" by Teddy Johnson and Pearl Carr is a charming and upbeat duet that became a classic of its time. The song, performed in the 1959 Eurovision Song Contest, features playful lyrics and a catchy melody, evoking a cheerful and lighthearted atmosphere. The imagery of a little bird singing symbolizes joy, love, and the simplicity of happy moments, resonating with listeners across generations. The song achieved remarkable success, securing second place in the Eurovision competition and charting well in the UK, reaching the top 10. Its warm harmonies and engaging performance style helped it stand out, cementing it as a beloved entry in the history of British pop music. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1958
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MY #1 SONG "Nel blu dipinto di blu," commonly known as "Volare," is a classic Italian song performed by Domenico Modugno. Released in 1958, the song captures the euphoric feeling of freedom and love, with its title translating to "In the blue, painted blue." Its soaring melody and uplifting lyrics, describing the narrator's dreamy flight into a vivid blue sky, resonated deeply with audiences worldwide. The song achieved tremendous success, winning the Sanremo Music Festival in 1958 and becoming Italy's entry for the Eurovision Song Contest the same year, where it placed third. Despite not winning Eurovision, "Volare" went on to enjoy remarkable global acclaim, topping charts in the United States and becoming the first-ever Grammy winner for both Record of the Year and Song of the Year in 1959. Its timeless appeal has made it one of the most recognized Italian songs in history, covered by numerous artists and celebrated as a symbol of joy and escapism. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1957
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MY #1 SONG "Skibet skal sejle i nat," performed by Birthe Wilke and Gustav Winckler, is a Danish ballad that represented Denmark at the 1957 Eurovision Song Contest. The song, whose title means "The Ship Will Sail Tonight," tells the heartfelt story of a sailor bidding farewell to his loved one before departing on a long journey. The lyrics capture the bittersweet emotions of love, separation, and the hope for reunion, set against the backdrop of the open sea. Musically, the song features a gentle, melodic arrangement that complements the tender lyrics, creating a nostalgic and romantic feel. The performance is also memorable for the on-stage kiss between Wilke and Winckler, which became iconic due to its length and unexpected nature for the time. While "Skibet skal sejle i nat" did not win Eurovision, it placed well, helping to establish Denmark's presence in the contest. The song became a popular hit in Denmark and remains a classic, fondly remembered as one of the country's most beloved Eurovision entries. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |
1956
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MY #1 SONG "Aprite le finestre" ("Open the Windows") by Franca Raimondi is a lively and optimistic Italian song, best known for its winning performance at the Sanremo Music Festival in 1956. With an upbeat melody and cheerful lyrics, the song encourages listeners to open their windows to the fresh, vibrant atmosphere of spring, symbolizing renewal and the joy of life. The lyrics celebrate nature’s beauty and inspire a sense of hope and brightness, reflecting post-war Italy’s spirit of renewal and optimism. The song's success at Sanremo helped establish it as a popular anthem in Italy, becoming an emblem of the country's musical rebirth in the mid-1950s. Though it didn't achieve international fame, "Aprite le finestre" gained significant national recognition, charting well in Italy and remaining a memorable classic associated with springtime and the hopeful energy of the era. My complete rankings & Spotify playlist |