Wiwibloggs: The Eurovision Podcast

We chat with EMMY at House of Helvetia in Basel. Despite singing about the famed Russian space dog Laika (the star of her song "Laika Party"), she admits to owning a kitty cat. She says that all animals are welcome to her "Laika Party" — but not animals that eat other animals. She also discusses her Irish co-writer, her brother Ereland, and how Ireland has embraced her. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams

JJ's "Wasted Love" has consistently been near the top of the Eurovision 2025 betting odds since its reveal in Austria. But will this emotional ballad get lost in a sea of jury favourites? Combining Filipino telenovela with Austrian classical opera, JJ has crafted a song like no other this year.  In this episode of "What Really Happened at Eurovision?", Professor Joe Bennett, a musicologist from the Berklee College of Music, tells us about the oscillating vocal effects that take Austria's entry this year from ballroom to club. Hosts: Freddy: http://instagram.com/freddyt234 William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

We chat with Sissal at House of Helvetia in Basel. The "Hallucination" singer discusses how she is currently obsessed with a man who may or may not know her name; how she can deal with particular hate comments, but will NOT accept people questioning her character; how her two daughters put everything in perspective; what it's like to be from the Faroe Islands; her cooking YouTube channel  @tripleyummy4744  and so much more. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

We chat with Australia's Eurovision star Go Jo at House of Helvetia in Basel. The "Milkshake Man" singer breaks down his on-stage prop (it's a giant blender and not a milkshake) where he performs an incredibly quick costume change. He introduces us to his partner, who is also one of his backing dancers, discusses growing up off-grid in the Australian countryside, talks about his former AFL football career, the songwriting process and so much more. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

ADONXS — Czechia's Eurovision 2025 singers — explains his staging concept for "Kiss Kiss Goodbye" during our interview at the House or Helvetia. He explains the flower of Adonis on his mic stand; why he rubbed SPF all over his body; and why he included his iconic dance break. He also gets emotional explaining his music video, which refers to his father who left the family when he was a boy. He says that loss defined so many of his adult relationships, but how he has now let go of that negative energy. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Claude Kiambe will sing for The Netherlands at Eurovision 2025. Born in the Congo before fleeing to Europe aged 9, Claude is recognised for his merging of languages in much of his music. But does his song C'est La Vie have what it takes to rouse audiences all over Europe? In this episode of What Really Happened at Eurovision? Professor Joe Bennett, musicologist from the Berklee College of Music, tells us about C'est La Vie and the circle of fourths - and how musical greats have been use the chord progression to capture audiences.  Presenters: Freddy: http://instagram.com/freddyt234 William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams        

Luxembourg's Eurovision 2025 singer Laura Thorn tells us all about her song “La poupée monte le son.” She explains how the lyrics demonstrate a woman's growth — from being treated like a puppet or a doll to standing on her own and taking up space for herself. She also discusses the Ukrainian creative team behind her staging and doll hours; what it's like working with her dancers; and how Eurovision 2009 singer and vocal coach Susanne Georgi has helped her stay strong. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams

"Zjerm" singers Shkodra Elektronike — that's Kolë Laca and Beatriçe Gjergji — gave us a very entertaining interview at the House of Helvetia in Basel. Among other things, they discuss the legend of Rozafa, the unique culture of their home region Shkodër, Kolë's recent virality (for not following the typical chord progressions in songs), and how they wrote their Eurovision entry. Beatriçe also gives us a dance tutorial. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Justyna Steczkowska — one of Poland's most loved singers — has returned to the Eurovision Song Contest thirty years after her first appearance. She tells our William Lee Adams about how she has grown and evolved musically and spiritually since finishing 18th. Some of this growth was prompted by personal traumas, including the loss of her parents and her husband's illness. She also recounts how her song "Gaja" — a reference to Mother Earth — explores the idea of our relationship to our planet and the ways we've harmed the source of our existence. Interviewer: William http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Translator: Bartek http://instagram.com/bartekfetyz  

NAPA's band members — Diogo Góis, Francisco Sousa, João Guilherme Gomes, João Lourenço Gomes, and João Rodrigues — join us on stage at the House of Helvetia. The band, formerly known as Men on the Couch, explain how their song “Deslocado” speaks of dislocation and the experience of so many people from their home island of Madeira. We also discuss the creation of their song, how they were rejected from Festival da Canção 2024, and how they share hateful and shady comments from social media in a private WhatsApp group for laughs. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

“Poison Cake” singer Marko Bošnjak stopped by the House of Helvetia for an interview in front of a live audience. Croatia's ESC singer tells us that the lyrics and angry sound were a way to fight back against negativity and hate, including people who called him a Satanist for liking Lady Gaga. He said the song has resonance with his current situation: conservative religious leaders have called for a boycott of him at Eurovision because of his devilish performance from Dora. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

We chat with Finland's Eurovision 2025 superstar Erika Vikman. She will perform "ICH KOMME" in the Second Semi-Final in Basel. Among other things, we discuss her many tattoos — including the one she wants to get removed; what it's like singing on top of that giant microphone; and her reaction to Finnish President Alexander Stubb's comments that he is supporting Sweden's KAJ. Featuring: William - https://www.instagram.com/williamleeadams/  

What does Miriana Contes 'Serving' have in common with songs by Kesha, the Ying Yang Twins and 17th century Algerian folk music? In this episode of "What Really Happened At Eurovision?" William and Freddy dissect the Arabian riff — a motif that plays in one of Eurovision 2025's most talked about songs. Professor Joe Bennett from the Berklee College of Music explains how Arab influences make "Serving" such a special song and why, no matter how hard you try, you Kant just censor certain elements of it. He also discusses the foundations of creativity and how the notion of "exoticism" frequently shows up in music. 

Remember Monday — the UK's Eurovision 2025 group — tell us what the hell happened during their gorgeous music video shoot. They also explain the difference between performing on the West End and at Eurovision, discuss the strength of their sisterhood and reveal the five matching tattoos they share. The group consists of Lauren Byrne, Holly-Anne Hull and Charlotte Steele from Farnborough, Hampshire. Interviewer: William - http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

We met up with the meme queen of the year, Sissal from Denmark, to talk about the now infamous group chat on Instagram, her new plans for staging and not least a little surprise message from her childhood crush! Featuring: Simon: http://instagram.com/simonfalkdk  

Gabry Ponte from San Marino discusses his life and career — including producing Eifel 65's international mega-ht "Blue" — at Eurovision in Concert in Amsterdam. We also discuss his staging plans for "Tutta L'Italia" in Basel. Interviewer: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

We chat with Croatia's Eurovision star Marko Bošnjak ahead of Eurovision In Concert in Amsterdam. He discusses the challenge of coming out in a conservative country and how he plans to completely change his Eurovision staging in Basel. Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Eurovision 2025 favourite J.J. from Austria discusses the writing process behind "Wasted Love" at Eurovision in Concert 2025 in Amsterdam.

Louane — France's Eurovision 2025 singer — discusses her song "maman" during our interview at Eurovision in Concert in Amsterdam. She describes how she got her daughter to sing the final note "maman" of her song, and how her daughter offers the most honest criticism of anyone. She also shares her safe space during these busy days leading to Eurovision. Interviewer: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams

We react to all of the performances from Eurovision in Concert 2025. Who gave the best live performance? Which act improved the most? Which acts failed to deliver? We share our thoughts on the showers, growers and more from the show in Amsterdam.

Our reaction to the Semi-Final 1 running order of Eurovision 2025. Iceland's Vaeb will open the show, while Cyprus' Theo Evan will close it. Among other things, we discuss how the start position could impact who qualifies; why Poland's Justyna was put in second position (the so-called "death slot"); why producers have Cyprus performing last; and so much more. Watch this podcast on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ohTaz4OfgFU   1.

We react to the Semi-Final 2 running order for Eurovision 2025. Producers have Australia's Go-Jo opening the show and Finland's Erika Vikman closing it. We ask why Montenegro is in the death slot (second position); suggest that producers wanted to spread out the riskqué sexy acts (Australia, Malta, and Finland), ; and suggest Israel benefits hugely from performing between Luxembourg and Germany.   Watch our reaction on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ANSBdl6845s?si=6cB2DOO1GBECXB6L 1.⁠ ⁠

William's reaction to the sauna song "Bara Bada Bastu" — Sweden's Eurovision 2025 entry from KAJ. The Swedish-speaking Finns rode a wave of momentum to win Melodifestivalen 2025. We review their live performance from the national final. Is it surprising the international jury place them second? Does it escape the "joke entry" label? And will the feel-good factor carry through to Basel? We discuss this and more. 00:01 Introduction 01:42 First reaction 04:53 Review and Analysis 07:54 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

It was a nailbiting final in Melodifestivalen in Sweden, but in the end the victory went to the sauna boys! We caught KAJ for their initial reaction to winning and how they are gonna bring the heat to Eurovision. Featuring: Simon - http://instagram.com/simonfalkdk  

Måns Zelmerlöw was the bookmakers' heavy favourite to win Melodifestivalen, but in the end he finished second by only a seven point margin to eventual winners KAJ. We caught up with Måns for a quick reaction after tonight's final, and he tried to cope with not winning. Featuring: Simon - http://instagram.com/simonfalkdk  

Our reaction to "Wasted Love" — JJ's Eurovision 2025 song for Austria. JJ (full name Johannes Pietsch) mixes opera with pop and techno, all delivered in his gorgeous countertenor voice. We review his music video and discuss his artistry, presence, vocals, the song's touching lyrics and the scope for drama and staging in Basel. Can Austria qualify for the grand final? We look at the odds. 00:01 Intro 01:51 First Reaction 04:24 Reaction & Analysis  

Our reaction to Serbia's Eurovision 2025 song "Mila" from Princ. We review the live performance from the Pesma za Evroviziju final (PZE 2025). 00:01 Introduction 00:41 Live reaction 03:39 Review & Analysis 09:04 Readers comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

Our reaction to "Baller" — Abor & Tynna's Eurovision 2025 song for Germany. We watch their live performance from the final of Chefsache ESC — the country's national selection. We review the artist's vocal capabilities, the staging, the song and more to ask: Can Germany win Eurovision again? #Eurovision #Chefsache 00:01 Introduction 00:28 First reaction 03:31 Review & Analysis 09:42 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

Our reaction to "C'est la Vie" — Claude's Eurovision 2025 song for The Netherlands. We review the song's simple, but touching French-language lyrics, which convey a story of strength and perseverance. The singer — full name Claude Kiambe — was born in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and fled with his mother at the age of 9. The song is a tribute to her for reminding him to always look on the bright side of life. We ask whether this could win the Eurovision Song Contest, as it has great jury and televote appeal. 00:01 Introduction 01:01 The message of Claude's Eurovision song 01:37 First reaction 04:39 Review & Analysis 11:21 Netherlands Semi-Final 1 14:03 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

It was a thrilling final tonight in DMGP 2025 in Herning, where the big favourite Sissal ended up taking the trophy with one point margin. We caught her after the show for her initial reaction to winning - and she promises to do everything she can to get Denmark back into the Eurovision final. Featuring: Simon - http://instagram.com/simonfalkdk  

Is "Milkshake Man" a joke entry? We react to Go-Jo's Eurovision 2025 song for Australia. SBS Australia says the lyrics are empowering and uplifting, but the highly suggestive music video, which is full of innuendo, may have viewers reading it differently. We review Go-Jo's (real name Marty Zambotto) chances of qualifying for the grand final. "Milkshake Man" was co-written with Sheppard. 00:01 Introduction 01:41 First reaction 04:32 Review and analysis 12:48 Australia's semi-final 15:02 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

They weren't expecting anything, but now KAJ have qualified directly to the final of Melfest. We got a quick reaction from the Finn-Swedes after their sauna turned on the heat in Malmö Arena in heat 4. They are ready to turn up the temperature even more in Stockholm in 2 weeks.

William reacts to "Gaja" — Justyna Steczkowska's song for Poland at Eurovision 2025. Justyna won Poland's national final Polskie kwalifikacje with 39% of the televote. William reviews her live performance, asks whether she can qualify for the final, and discusses the staging, her voice and beauty. Do you think this is Poland's best-ever Eurovision entry? 00:01 Introduction 01:46 Reaction 04:49 Review and Analysis 10:40 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Our reaction to Latvia's Eurovision 2025 group Tautumeitas with the song "Bur man laimi." We filmed this two days after they won Supernova 2025 — Latvia's super competitive national final for Eurovision. Can they advance from the semi-final with their ethereal, Latvian-language song? We review their chances. 00:01 Introduction 00:45 Reaction 03:44 Analysis and Prediction 04:23 Bur man laimi lyrics 12:48 Reader comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

William's reaction to Lucio Corsi's Eurovision 2025 song "Volevo essere un duro." Lucio — who came second place at Sanremo 2025 — agreed to sing at Eurovision after Sanremo winner Olly said no to producers and declined his chance to go to Eurovision. We review the song's chances, Lucio's poetic lyrics, and the staging...and explain his white face paint. 00:01 Introduction 00:22 Why did Olly say no to Eurovision? 01:19 "Volevo essere un duro" lyrics 02:43 Reaction 05:36 Review and analysis 11:54 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Our reaction to Parg's Eurovision 2025 song for Armenia — SURVIVOR. The song, written by Melodifestivalen songwriters Thoams G:son and Peter Boström, has strong Melfest vibes. But is it too generic for Eurovision? We review its rock sound, Parg's stage presence and vocals, and whether Armenia can qualify for the final. We watch the live performance from AMPTV's Depi Evratestil 2025 final. 00:01 Introduction 01:05 Reaction 04:16 Review & Analysis 16:00 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

William and Deban share their reaction to "Tavo akys" — Katarsis' Eurovision 2025 song for Lithuania. They review the life performance from the Eurovizija.LT national selection and share their thoughts on the alt rock sound, the staging, the singer's intensity and his vocals. Can Lithuania make the Eurovision final? 00:01 Introduction 00:33 Reaction 03:25 Review & Analysis 08:50 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

Let's react to "Espresso Macchiato" — Tommy Cash's Eurovision 2025 song for Estonia. We review his live performance at Eesti Laul and William, who was part of the international jury, shares how he reached his decision. Will Tommy's slapstick comedy, use of Italian language, and viral dance moves help him quality for the final? We review his chances. 00:01 Introduction 00:57 Reaction 04:01 Review and analysis 12:22 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

It has been 10 years since he won Eurovision. And now Måns Zelmerlöw is back to compete on home soil in Malmö in Melfest. Although he's the current favourite to win Melodifestivalen 2025 and sing at Eurovision, he says he does NOT expect to win. Featuring: Simon - http://instagram.com/simonfalkdk  

Our reaction to "Lighter" — Norway's Eurovision 2025 song from Kyle Alessandro. The 18-year-old singer won Melodi Grand Prix 2025 with a song inspired by his mother's battle with cancer. We review his staging, choreography, costume and voice. Can Norway qualify from the semi-final with this? We share our thoughts. 00:01 Introduction 00:49 Kyle's reaction to winning 01:19 Reaction to live performance 04:13 Review & Analysis 11:26 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

Has Olly confirmed for Eurovision 2025? No, not yet. But here's our reaction to the Sanremo 2025 winner's "Balorda nostalgia" — potentially Italy's ESC 2025 song. Would this make the Top 10 at Eurovision? We review its chances. 00:01 Introduction 01:23 "Balorda nostalgia" lyrics 02:15 Reaction 05:26 Review & Analysis 11:16 Readers' comments Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban  

France has confirmed that Louane will sing for the country at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. In her first English-language interview since the announcement, the “Avenir” hitmaker teases her entry, which she compares to the a screaming face emoji because it's so surprising. Louane's parents passed away when she was a teenager. She tells us how that influenced her thinking when deciding whether to participate in Eurovision. She also offers advice for others coping with the loss of loved ones. From winning a César Award for Most Promising Actress to topping the French charts to winning fans on The Voice of France, Louane has a storied career already. But she sees Eurovision as a way to honour her mother, who dreamed of seeing Louane in the song contest. She'll reveal her song on March 15 inside Stade de France during the closing match of the Six Nations Rugby Tournament. Let's do this!

William and Lucy react to the full results of Ireland's Eurosong 2025. EMMY ("Laika Party") won the national jury and televote to finish in first place ahead of runner-up Samantha Mumba ("My Way"), who won the international jury vote. 00:44 EMMY - Laika Party 07:19 Samantha Mumba - My Way 10:34 Bobbi Arlo - Powerplay 14:10 Reylta - Fire 16:58 Niyl - Growth 20:09 ADGY - Run Into The Night Featuring: Lucy: http://instagram.com/lucyeasurtee William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams  

Will Malta's Eurovision 2025 song "KANT" be disqualified — or make changes — over its provocative lyrics? We discuss the world play at the heart of the controversy and ask whether the EBU should make Miriana Conte change the lyrics.

We react to Klavdia's live performance of “Asteromata” at Ethnikós Telikós 2025 — Greece's national selection for Eurovision. William and Deban review her voice, staging and song. Can Greece make the Eurovision final?

Our reaction to Melody and "Esa Diva" — Spain's Eurovision 2025 song and the winner of RTVE's Benidorm Fest 2025. Melody's live performance and staging showcase a "more is more" attitude. We review whether the staging, dancers, choreography, key changes and dynamic story cohere — and whether it needs to be tidied before the grand final. Is this a slay or Eurovision cliché? Watch our reaction to find out. 00:01 Introduction 01:41 Reaction 04:45 Analysis 15:20 Readers' comments

Our reaction to Red Sebastian and his Eurovision song "Strobe Lights" — the winner of Belgium's Eurosong 2025 national final. We discuss whether the live performance lives up to the betting odds hype; Red Sebastian's vocals and choreography; and whether this song can qualify or even win the Eurovision Song Contest. 00:01 Introduction 01:18 Reaction 04:15 Analysis 14:59 Readers' comments (from wiwibloggs.com)

Our reaction to Klemen Slakonja and his song "How Much Time Do We Have Left," the winner of Slovenia's EMA 2025 national selection for Eurovision. We discuss the song's meaning and lyrics: Klemen's wife lives with an auto-immune disorder and the song celebrates his love and her perseverance. We review the staging, whether the song's meaning comes through clearly enough, and how an emotional ballad might do in the semi-finals. William was a jury member in Slovenia and explains how he voted and why. What do you think about the EMA Evrovizija 2025 results? 00:01 Introduction 01:07 Reaction 04:07 Analysis 14:08 Readers' comments

The Eurovision 2025 semi-final allocation draw has taken place in Basel, Switzerland. Which countries sing in which semi-final — and in the first half or second half? We review the draw and react to what what it might mean. 00:26 Eurovision 2025: Semi-Final 1 countries FIRST HALF Sweden Ukraine Slovenia Iceland Estonia Poland Portugal SECOND HALF Netherlands Azerbaijan Albania San Marino Belgium Cyprus Croatia Norway Also voting in the first semi-final… Switzerland Italy Spain 13:10 Eurovision 2025: Semi-Final 2 countries FIRST HALF Austria Lithuania Armenia Montenegro Greece Ireland Australia Latvia SECOND HALF Czechia Israel Malta Finland Denmark Luxembourg Georgia Serbia Also voting in the second semi-final… Germany France United Kingdom

Who should win Greece's Eurovision 2025 national selection? Deban, Georgia and William named their Top 3 favourites in the Greek song contest. GREEK FINALISTS Andy Nicolas – “Lost my Way” Barbz – “Sirens” Evangelia – “Vále” Nafsika – “Unhurt me” Dinamiss (Ελένη και Μαρια Ντίνα) – “Odyssey” Θάνος Λάμπρου – “Free Love” RIKKI – “Elevator (Up and Down)” Κωνσταντίνος Χριστοφόρου feat Κώστας Καραφώτης – “Παράδεισος” Georgina Kalais feat Γιάννης Βλασσερός – “High Road” Xannova Xan (Κάλλη Γεωργέλλη) – “Play It” Klavdia – “Αστερομάτα” Κώστας Αγέρης – “Γη Μου” Featuring: William: http://instagram.com/williamleeadams Deban: http://instagram.com/deban_deban Georgia: http://instagram.com/georgia_efthymiadou  

We met Dora 2025 star Marko Bošnjak in Zagreb and chatted about his entry, Eurovision and more! What do you think about "Poison Cake"?