Welcome to our new series of posts!
The moment of truth has come, and all of the 39 competing songs of Eurovision 2021 have been revealed.
Therefore, we are ready for an extended review of them and of course ranking the songs.
Each post in the series will focus on 5-6 songs.
6 chapters have already been published (Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4, Part 5, Part 6).
This post in the series will focus on 6 pre-qualifiers countries that will participate in the Grand final, without passing the semi-finals: France, Germany, Italy, Spain, the UK, and The Netherlands
Artist: Barbara Pravi
Barbara Pravi (real name: Barbara Piévic) is a 28-yeard-old singer, songwriter, and actress.
She created the stage name Pravi which is authentic in the Serbian language.
Barbara was born in France, but she has Serbian and Iranian roots (Her paternal grandfather is from Serbia, while her maternal grandfather is the famous Iranian painter Hossein Zenderoudi).
She began her musical career in 2014 as she started composing songs with Jules Jaconelli.
Her singing career kicked off with recording the soundtrack of the French version of the Swiss film “Heidi”. In 2017, she released her first single “Pas grandir“. In 2017 she also starred in the film “La Sainte famille“. In 2018, she released her debut extended play “Barbara Pravi“.
At the end of 2018, the singer decided to adopt a different music style: one that’s closer to Chanson rather than French Pop. Her second extended play was released in 2020 with the title “Reviens pour l’hiver“. In 2020, she released her third extended play “Les prières” which she devoted to strong women in history.
Barbara has composed and written songs for other singers as well: Yannick Noah, Julie Zenatti, Chimène Badi,Jaden Smith, Louane and Florent Pagny.
In addition, she isn’t a stranger to the Eurovision scene. In 2019, she wrote (together with Igit) the French song for Junior Eurovision 2019 – “Bim bam toi” by Carla that finished in 5th place.
In 2020, Igit and Barbara composed and wrote the song “J’imagine” by Valentina that won first place in Junior Eurovision 2020.
Pravi is very active in the fight to end violence against women. She has frequently contributed to music initiatives intended to promote causes involved with women’s rights
Selection Process: France decided to choose its artist and song for Eurovision 2021 via a national selection show – “Eurovision France, c’est vous qui décidez!“. She won first place in jury voting and public voting. Therefore, Barbara will perform the song “Voila” at Eurovision 2021.
Allocation in the Grand Final: France‘s spot in the grand final will be revealed later on.
In the beginning, we would only know if France performs in the first half or second half of the Grand Final show.
Musical Review: It’s a singer-songwriter Chanson song. The melody is based on gentle piano playing.
Sometimes, she is using a slightly higher voice (it usually happens towards the end of the lines). The chorus has Waltz elements. We can hear cello playing in the chorus and the verses after. At some points, she looks excited and angry but it is just a way of expressing feelings. The fast rate in the middle of the song transfers again to a slower one towards the end. The song ends with high-speed playing and special head movements.
Barbara’s voice is pure and clear. She is not only a singer but also a storyteller.
Barbara doesn’t need any staging, her facial expressions are just enough. She is theatrical and exposes her beautiful soul on the stage. It has drama but in the right dosage.
I would define it as an effective and exciting ballad – Chanson. In other words: France is your chance to return top 10 at Eurovision Grand Final.
Translated Lyrics (thanks to LyricsTranslate)
Here You Go / Here
Listen to me, a wannabe singer
Talk about me, to your lovers, to your friends
Tell them about this girl with black eyes and a foolish dream
I, I only want to write stories that will reach you
and that’s allHere, here, here, this is who I am
Here I am, and even though I’m exposed, I’m afraid, yes
Here I am, both in the noise and the silenceLook at me, or at least at what’s left of me
Look at me, before I hate myself
What can I tell you that other lips won’t?
It ain’t much, but all that I have, I’ve put it there
Here you goHere, here, here, this is who I am
Here I am, although exposed, it’s the end
It’s my mouth, it’s my cry, but hey, never mind
Here, here, here, here is
me, my dream, my envy, here’s how I die, here’s how I laugh
Here I am, both in noise and silenceDon’t go, I beg you to stay for a long time
it may not save me, no
but I don’t know what to do without you
Love me like one loves a friend that’s gone forever
I want to be loved because I don’t know how to love my contoursHere, here, here, this is who I am
Here I am, even if I’m exposed, it’s the end
Here I am, in the noise and in the fury too
Look at me, finally, look into my eyes and my hands
Everything I have is here, it’s my mouth, it’s my cry
Here I am, here I am, here I am
here,
here
Here you goHere you go
Poetry Analysis: It’s a song about self-acceptance. The spokesperson of the song described her journey from being unconfident to self-acceptance.
In the first verse, she announces that her big dream is being a singer. She asks to be revealed by others. However, she still sees herself as a simple woman that even criticizes her own dream.
She wants to reach people all over the world with her story.
“Listen to me, a wannabe singer/ Talk about me, to your lovers, to your friends/
Tell them about this girl with black eyes and a foolish dream/ I, I only want to write stories that will reach you/ and that’s all“.
She sees herself present in each place. Even though she was brave enough to share her story, she feels exposed but still afraid of the way she will be accepted by others and by herself.
“Here, here, here, this is who I am/ Here I am, and even though I’m exposed, I’m afraid, yes/ Here I am, both in the noise and the silence“.
She is broken, after a crisis, she has been through. She asks for others’ love in order to be able to love herself. She knows that her story may not be the most interesting one and she wonders what can put her in a unique place compared to others. She hasn’t got much, but she is ready to give it all:
“Look at me, or at least at what’s left of me/ Look at me, before I hate myself/ What can I tell you that other lips won’t?/ It ain’t much, but all that I have, I’ve put it there“.
In the second chorus, she moves forward to the last day of her life. She wonders what will remain of her after death: Would people recall her words / her voice/ her cry/ her laugh/ her dream/ her envy?
She will still be present in different situations since life is complicated and each one of us has different layers and sides: “Here I am, although exposed, it’s the end / It’s my mouth, it’s my cry, but hey, never mind ../ My dream, my envy, here’s how I die, here’s how I laugh/ Here I am, both in noise and silence“.
In the third verse, she asks someone to accompany her. She knows it won’t save her from the predictable end. But, she would feel miserable and lonely without someone next to her.
She asks to be loved in an extreme way like we love someone that has gone forever. It may be because she doesn’t love herself but also because she wants to be admired like people who appreciate artists that have passed away. In the end, she admits that even though time has passed, she still struggled to love herself. The only remedy she recognizes is others’ love:
“Don’t go, I beg you to stay for a long time it may not save me, no/ but I don’t know what to do without you/ Love me like one loves a friend that’s gone forever/ I want to be loved because I don’t know how to love my contours“.
Initial Personal Ranking: 3rd overall
Odds Table: France held its national final on the 30th of January 2021. On that date, France was the first on the table. A day later, in 2nd place, and then two days in 3rd place. Between the 4th of February 2021 and the 24th of February 2021, France was in place 4-5 in the table.
Between the 26th of February 2021 and the 3rd of March 2021, France was in 3rd place once again. Between the 3rd of March and 7th of March, France was in 2nd place.
Then, for a time period of a month, France moved into the range of places 3-4 in the table.
Since the 8th of April, France has been stable in 2nd place with betting odds.
Early Prediction: France is back to the game this time! The country didn’t come only to participate but also aims for a good result in the contest. The song has more jury appeal in its character, but it definitely can achieve good results in public voting as well.
My prediction is that France will end in the Top 7 in the grand final. There is also the possibility of ending up in the Top 5.
Artist: Jendrik Sigwart
Jendrik Sigwart is 26 years old from Hamburg. He has played piano and violin since he was very young. He studied musical theatre at the Osnabrück University of Applied Sciences.
Selection Process: The act has been chosen through a complicated process. 2 jury panels were involved in the selection process. The jury panel included 100 Eurovision fans whose taste is predictable and similar to the typical Eurovision voters. Another jury panel included a former international Eurovision jury and participants.
The German broadcaster has received 300 songs for this year’s selection.
In the beginning, the Eurovision fans panel chose their favorite songs in a multiple rounds process. Thereafter, an international jury was involved. The list of acts (song+artists) has been narrowed from 300 to 200 to 100 to 50 to 20. The 20 final acts can include two different performers for a single song or 2 different songs that are performed by the same artist.
The 20 final acts have been requested to send a video clip with the performance concept in case they will represent Germany at Eurovision 2021.
The 2 jury panels had equal weight in the decision on what will be the act for Eurovision 2021.
Jendrik will perform the song “I Don’t Feel Hate” at Eurovision 2021
Allocation in the Grand Final: Germany‘s spot in the grand final will be revealed later on.
In the beginning, we would only know if Germany performs in the first half or second half of the Grand Final show.
Musical Review: It’s a pop-folk song with influences of 1950-1960 music. The song starts with Ukele playing, the production of this part is acoustic so the main components are the singer’s voice and the Ukelele itself. After that, the singer sings while being accompanied by backing vocalists and whistling. Then, the melody completely changes, the song is transferred into a rhythmic place.
It is still uplifting but also uplifting. The rhythm is created by trumpets, drums, and digital beat.
There is an instrumental break based on the same instruments. The second verse is more rhythmic, the ukelele is still one of the main players in that part, Jendrik sings while being accompanied by backing vocalists. That verse is richer music wisely. We can hear a variety of backing vocalists, there are also some wind instruments in the melody. The accords of the background music change, they are lower. Once again, we get an enormous instrumental break that’s based on trumpet, pop beat, and drum effect. The second half of the song starts with trumpet playing while Jendrik sings very fast (it can be defined as talking as well). We are getting a “duet” of trumpets and whistling, but the trumpets at this point aren’t that pleasing to hear. After that, we can hear a section of Steps music, with a different melody that is more uplifting. The song ends with another chorus.
The song is catchy and unique, but I found some parts of it annoying. The trumpets are too dominant in several moments. Sometimes, it seems like it’s a little bit childish (musically).
The message is brilliant and even though the clip is bizarre, I can definitely appreciate the effort and the ideas behind it. The song isn’t good or bad, it’s just a matter of taste. Personally, I am not attracted to that kind of song.
Lyrics
I don’t feel hate
I just feel sorry
You feel so very clever when you thought
you’d found another way to wear me down
But I don’t feel hate
I just feel sorry
So you can wiggle with that middle finger,
and I will wiggle back to you
‘Cause I don’t feel
SorryI really don’t care (Ah, ah-ah) that you want to bash me (Ah-ah, ah-ah)
Do it with flair and I’ll let you be (I’ll let you be)
But don’t you dare (Don’t you dare), mmm, to get angry (To get angry)
When you realize those words just don’t hit me
What?‘Cause I don’t feel hate
I just feel sorry
You feel so very clever when you thought you’d found another way to wear me down
But I don’t feel hate
I just feel sorry
So you can wiggle with that middle fingеr, and I will wiggle back to you
‘Cause I don’t feel hate
SorryI rеally don’t mind (Ah, ah-ah) to be your rival (Ah-ah, ah-ah)
‘Cause for your kind it’s essential for survival (Say what? He did not just say that)
Yes, I did, and I feel sorry (So sorry)
I don’t feel hate, that’s the whole point of this song (That’s the song)
I guess you need patronization, as some kind of validation
‘Cause you cant cope with the frustration
That your random me-fixation is another affirmation
That you‘re just a hateful person
Who’s not really better than meTap break, uh
I don’t feel hate (Don’t feel hate)
I just feel sorry (I just feel sorry)
You feel so very clever when you thought you’d found another way to wear me down (Wear me down)
But I don’t feel hate (No, no, no)
I just feel sorry (Just feel sorry)
So you can wiggle with that middle finger, and I will wiggle back to you (Wiggle, wiggle, wiggle you)
‘Cause I don’t feel hate (No, no, no, no)
I just feel sorry (I just feel sorry)
You feel so very clever when you thought you’d found another way to wear me down (Don’t wear me down)
But I don’t feel hate (I don’t feel hate)
I just feel sorry (I just feel sorry)
So you can wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle you (Oh wiggle, wiggle you)
‘Cause I don’t feel
Poetry Analysis: The song talks about criticism of society towards people and even criticism between people in general. Everyone is different from each other: gender, race, weight, height, skin color, political opinions, and more. The song invites us to ignore the hate and the criticism. Even if people hurt us and appoint their “middle finger” toward us, we have to forget about it. The right reaction is to stick to our character and be faithful to ourselves.
Initial Personal Ranking: 36th overall
Odds Table: The song was released on the 25th of February 2021. On that day, Germany was 24th with betting odds. Then, for 8 consecutive days, it remained in 25-26 places.
Thereafter, Germany started to decrease with the odds: being 26th, 28th, and 34th.
Until the 4th of April, the song moved into a range of places in 31-35.
Since the 5th of April, Germany is 29-31 with betting odds. Currently, in 29th place.
Early Prediction: For me, Germany is one of the hardest countries to predict this year.
On the one hand, Jendrik gives good vibes in his performances and the song is unique, I’m sure it will have a memorable staging. On the other hand, the sound of the song may make some of the listeners feel a little bit uncomfortable (not because the song is bad, it is more about the genre).
Therefore, I think this song is controversial and its fate will probably be determined by the gap between jury vote and televoting. I can see it getting a good score from the public and a low score from the jury. That’s why the song will probably end in a decent place in the middle, let’s say 12-17 in the grand final.
Artist: Måneskin
Måneskin (Danish: Moonshine) is a rock band from Rome, Italy. The band members are Damiano David (lead singer), Victoria De Angelis (bassist), Thomas Raggi (guitarist), and Ethan Torchio (drummer).
The band rose to fame in 2017, when they participated in the 11th season of “X Factor Italy“, ending in second place. The band was formed in 2016, while the members met each other in high- school.
The band name was decided by all of them after the band members asked Victoria (who is half Danish) to drop some Danish words. Their debut single “Chosen” was picked number 2 in the Italian charts, it was released at the end of November 2017. A month later, they released an extended play with the same title. The band has released 2 studio albums so far: “Il ballo della vita” (2018), “Teatro d’ira: Vol. 1” (2021). The first album reached 3 platinums and the second reached gold status. The two albums picked number 1 on the Italian charts and picked number 26 and 13 in the Swiss charts.
Selection Process: As usual, Italy held “Festival di Sanremo“. The festival was held between the 2nd and 6th of March 2021. 26 artists participated in the festival this year. Måneskin reached the superfinal and won with 40% of the combined results (Demoscopic jury: 32.97%, press jury: 35.16%, Public vote: 53.53%). Therefore, the band will represent Italy at Eurovision 2021 with the song “Zitti e buoni” (English: “Shut Up and Behave“).
Allocation in the Grand Final: Italy‘s spot in the grand final will be revealed later on.
In the beginning, we would only know if Italy performs in the first half or second half of the Grand Final show.
Musical Review: It’s a rock& roll song. The song starts with an instrumental introduction based on guitar and bass playing. The lead singer sings the first verse in a fast singing, raspy voice and sometimes “heavy” breathing. The first verse has an almost constant melody: cyclic guitar accords of guitar and bass guitar. The second chorus is being performed with slightly more powerful singing.
The chorus relies on Damiano‘s raspy voice, the chorus itself is short but at the same time effective and memorable. The third verse is even faster, the singing can even be defined as rock-rap in some cases. The second chorus is impactful, we have some “glam shouts” at the end of that chorus.
Right after that, there is another instrumental part of bass and guitar, it proceeds to the bridge of the song which starts with the word “Parla”. I find the singing on the bridge to be the most interesting part of the song. Another chorus arrives, this time with acoustic production that relies on drum playing.
The song ends with another instrumental part, dominated by the bass guitar. The melody of that part reminds a lot of the successful rock songs of the 1990s.
It’s really refreshing and heart-warming to see Italy with a rock song at Eurovision Song Contest.
In addition, the band is popular in Italy and I’m sure that a lot of Italians are happy with the selection.
Translated Lyrics (thanks to LyricsTranslate)
They don’t know what I’m talking about
Bruh, clothes dirty with mud
Yellow on your fingers from cigs
Walking about with a cig
I’m sorry, but I’m so sure
I can afford to take the leap
Even if it’s an uphill climb
That’s why I’m trainingAnd good evening, ladies and gentlemen
Actors on the scene
You better not make any more mistakes
You better be quiet and behave
People here are odd, like pushers
I spent too many nights locked out
Now I’m going around kicking on the doors
Looking upwards, like climbers
So, I’m sorry mom if I’m always out, butI’m out of my mind, just not like them
And you’re out of your mind, just not like them
We’re out of our mind, just not like them
We’re out of our mind, just not like them
NoI have written pages over pages
I’ve seen salt and then tears
These men on their cars
Unable to climb against the rapids
Carved on a gravestone
“There’s no god in my home”
But if you understand the meaning of time
You’ll rise back up from your oblivion
And no wind can stop
Natural power
From the right point of view
You can feel the euphoria brought by the wind
With wings of wax on my back
I’ll seek out that height
If you’re trying to stop me, try again
Try and cut my head off
BecauseI’m out of my mind, just not like them
And you’re out of your mind, just not like them
We’re out of our mind, just not like them
We’re out of our mind, just not like themPeople talk, unfortunately
They talk, and they don’t know what they’re talking about
Just take me where I can stay afloat
‘Cause here I can’t breathe
People talk, unfortunately
They talk, and they don’t know what they’re talking about
Just take me where I can stay afloat
‘Cause here I can’t breathe
People talk, unfortunately
They talk, and they don’t know what they’re talking about
Just take me where I can stay afloat
‘Cause here I can’t breatheBut I’m out of my mind, just not like them
And you’re out of your mind, just not like them
We’re out of our minds, just not like them
We’re out of our minds, just not like them
Poetry Analysis: The song aims to praise the unique people who don’t care what other people say about them. There is no natural force that can stop those people, even if they are being asked to shut up. Sometimes, those people can’t find their place in the world, so they find other options such as “shelters”.
Initial Personal Ranking: 11th overall
Odds Table: The song was announced as the Italian entry on the late night of the 6th of March.
On the 7th of March, the song was in the 4th place. Right after that, it was the 2nd for 2 days, and then 3rd and 5th. The song was in 4th place betweren the11th of March and the 8th of April 2021.
Since the 9th of April, Italy has been stable in the the 4th place.
Early Prediction: The biggest problem of the country will be another country: Finland who brings a rock song as well. There is no doubt, the two songs are of a different flavor of rock. However, I recognize that mutual voters will have to split their votes between those 2 acts. Italy has shown us that they have the ability to reach the top 10 even when it seems impossible.
I predict that Italy will end in place 6-12 in the grand final.
Artist: Blas Cantó
Blas Cantó Moreno is a 29-yeard-old Spanish singer. In 2000, he participated in the children’s talent show “Veo Veo“. In 2014, he participated in the national final of Spain for Junior Eurovision but didn’t win. In 2009, he founded the boy band “AURYN” that consists of 5 members (Blas Cantó, Álvaro Gango, Carlos Marco, David Lafuente and Dani Fernández). In 2011, the band participated in the national selection for Eurovision 2011 but lost to Lucía Pérez. The band released 4 studio albums in the years 2011, 2013, 2014, 2015 that were a huge success in Spain. In 2016, the band went on hiatus. IN 2016, Blas participated in the first Spanish season of “Your Face Sounds Familiar” and won first place. In March 2017, he released his first English single as a solo artist, “In Your Bed“, while in 2018 he released his first Spanish single as a solo artist “Él no soy yo“. In September 2018, he released his debut album “Complicado“.
In 2020, the singer was internally chosen for Eurovision 2020 with the song “Universo“.
Selection Process: In 2020, Blas Cantó was internally chosen by the Spanish broadcaster to represent the country. However, Eurovision 2020 was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
In 2021, Blas was internally selected by the Spanish broadcaster.
This year, Spain held “Destino Eurovision” with 2 different songs suggested by Blas.
”Voy a quedarme” received 58% of the votes, while ”Memoria” received 42% of the results.
Allocation in the Grand Final: Spain‘s spot in the grand final will be revealed later on.
In the beginning, we would only know if Spain performs in the first half or second half of the Grand Final show.
Musical Review: It’s a ballad. The song starts with the piano playing. Blas sings the first verse at a slow rate. There is a romantic and intimate atmosphere. Pre-chorus is being performed in a higher voice, it is more exciting and we can hear some string instruments. The chorus has a simpler melody, but the singer’s voice is more present. The string instrument wraps the whole package with good quality. After the chorus, a dramatic break is composed of digital production and a drum beat. After that, the song gets a happier vibe, the rate is faster. The piano playing is accompanied by a soft beat..
Blas sings the pre-chorus with a lot of excitement, but also mannerism.
The second chorus is powerful and afterwards there is the bridge which ends with high notes.
It has been a while since Spain sent a ballad performed by a solo artist to Eurovision.
The song is decent, and for me it’s a grower. I just think that it might not be that memorable compared to others. Blas has really improved vocally and I think that he will be able to carry the song.
Translated Lyrics (thanks to LyricsTranslate)
I’m Going to Stay
Stay tonight to see the sunrise
to feel your voice
caressing meStay one more second
there is nothing to lose
whilst I draw a sea
of memories on your skinI have lowered the sky to discover
what hides in your gaze
only a few centimetres from meI am going to stay and I promise
to love you more than yesterday
I am going to kiss you very slowly
like the first timeAnd leave the fear behind
with your soul between my fingers
Stay
because I am going to stayI know that there are many like me
with so much to offer
But I swear that this love
no one can beatAnd although our dance took
a step back
don’t worry
I will always dance with youWhat difference does it make if the world collapses today
or what will happen tomorrow
I am not going to leave your sideI am going to stay and I promise
to love you more than yesterday
I am going to kiss you very slowly
like the first timeAnd leave the fear behind
with your soul between my fingers
Stay
because I am going to stay by your side
although the ground trembles
the sun goes out
the sky falls
The two just a few centimetres awayAh, ah, ah…
And leave the fear behind
with your soul between my fingers
Stay
because I am going to stay
Poetry Analysis: It’s a romantic love song. The spokesperson asks his lover to stay with him. He would do everything just to understand what is on his lover’s mind. There is no need to afraid when he is next to his lover. Their love maybe not a new one, but he is still able to love her as on the first day.
Initial Personal Ranking: 28th overall
Odds Table: The song won the national final on the 20th of February 2021. On that date, Spain was in 34th place. Thereafter it decreased to 34th, 35th and 36th place. Until the 4th of April, Spain was in the range of 36-39 place. Between the 5th and the 9th of April, Spain was 34th with betting odds. After that, Spain was once again 37th with betting odds. Right after that, the 5 following days were in place 35-36., 4 additional days in 33rd place and since the 27th of April, Spain is 35th with betting odds.
Early Prediction: Blas can create a moment in Rotterdam. I’m afraid people will be more impressed with other songs, so Spain won’t have a place in their hearts. The song isn’t bad at all, but the first impression can draw a picture of a flat song. I predict Spain will end up in 20-24 place in the final.
Artist: James Newman
James Newman is a 35-year-old British singer and songwriter. He started his musical journey around 2013 when he co-wrote the song “Waiting All Night” for Rudimental and Ella Eyre.
The song became a hit and picked number 1 on the British charts. In 2014, James received the Brit Award for British Single. Later on, he collaborated with his younger brother John. Together they wrote the song “Blame” by Calvin Harris (the song includes vocals by John as well).
In 2017, James was a co-composer of several songs on Kesha’s album “Rainbow“.
In addition, he was a co-composer of the song “Coping” performed by Toni Braxton.
He was a featured vocalist in the song “Therapy” by the Durch DJ Armin Van Buuren.
In 2019, he was featured on another song by Armin Van Buuren: “High On Love.“.
Selection Process: In 2020, James Newman was internally chosen by the British broadcaster BBC to represent the country. However, Eurovision 2020 was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Back then, he should have performed the song “My Last Breath“.
In 2021, he was internally chosen again, this time with the song “Embers“:
Allocation in The Grand Final: The UK‘s spot in the grand final will be revealed later on.
In the beginning, we would only know if the UK performs in the first half or second half of the Grand Final show.
Musical Review: It’s a funky house song. The song starts with a short instrumental section that’s composed of electronic keyboards and trumpets. The first verse is rhythmic but has a soft melody to suggest. The main component in the first verse is the warm voice of James. The melody is cyclic, basic but it is the right thing in the right place. There’s an electronic beat that’s getting stronger as the verse progresses, the trumpets become an integral part of the melody. The chorus is uplifting, there is a “clap” beat at the beginning of the chorus. Backing vocalists support James, and then we get an instrumental part that is based on the trumpets playing. This part is danceable and definitely has potential in staging terms. The second verse is more rhythmic than the first one. The festive atmosphere we’ve got in the chorus continues into the second verse. James‘ raspy voice fits perfectly into the beat and the production in general. The chorus starts with a more flatty melody but very fast, we get the trumpets again. The second chorus has a similar structure to the first one.
The bridge brings a melody change, it is refreshing and interesting. James‘ voice is again at the center, while the backing vocalists support him with a weak echo effect. The song ends with the trumpet’s instrumental.
For me, it is one of the best efforts by the UK in recent years (however not better than 2017).
The song has a warm summer party vibe and it has the potential to be a radio hit.
We already know that James is a talented artist and a good performer in general. The song is uplifting and makes the listeners happy. Nevertheless, I’m still not sure if it is impactful enough to achieve a decent result.
Lyrics
Sometimes I know my fire burns low
But as long as you’re with me I’ll never get cold
‘Til day and night, through darkness and light
I’ll never worry when you’re by my sideOh, feelings change, and seasons fade
But nothing will burn us out
Nothing can stop us nowOut of the embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light up the room)
Out of the embers
There’s a fire burning for you (Yeah, there’s a fire burning for you)
I feel it heatin’ up
There’s still a chance for us
Down here in the ashes, yеah, there’s something glowing
Out of thе embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light)Light up the room
Light up the roomYou and me forever, we’re free
We’re cool under pressure, and that’s all we need
So take my hand, and forget the past
We’re in this together, there’s no looking backOh, feelings change, and seasons fade
But nothing will burn us out
Nothing can stop us nowOut of the embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light up the room)
Out of the embers
There’s a fire burning for you (Yeah, there’s a fire burning for you)
I feel it heatin’ up
There’s still a chance for us
Down here in the ashes, yeah, there’s something glowing
Out of the embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light)Light up the room
Out of the embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light up the room)
Out of the embers
You and I are gonna light up the room (Yeah, you and I gonna light up the room)Light up the room
Light up the room
Poetry Analysis: It’s a song that presents us with the power of love. The spokesperson is in a relationship that makes him secure, happy and thankful. He believes that there is a strong fire between him and his lover. The fire can’t burn out since their love is strong and stable.
He isn’t worried, wherever they are. Even in the darkest moments, there is still the hope of love that can be a lifeline.
Initial Personal Ranking: 23rd overall
Odds Table: The song was released on the 11th of March 2021. On that date, it was the 21st with betting odds. The 2 following days were spent in 20th and 19th place.
Between the 14th of March and the 31st of March 2021, the UK was in 21st place.
Between the 1st of April and the the12th of April 2021, the UK was in 22nd place.
Since the 13th of April, the UK has been 23rd with betting odds.
Early Prediction: It’s a decent song. I found myself enjoying listening to it. However, I still think that it may lack the wow factor. In other words, I didn’t find anything special that made me hit the replay button again and again. James’ voice and the trumpets will be interesting for sure.
The problem is that other songs may stand out even more.
At the moment, I predict the UK will end up in place 20-24 in the grand final.
Artist: Jeangu Macrooy
Jeangu Macrooy is a 27-years-old Suriname singer-songwriter. He was born in Paramaribo (the Capital city of Suriname) and moved to The Netherlands in 2014.
IN 2011, he formed the band Between Towers with his twin brother Xillan. They released a studio album in 2013 called “Stars On My Radio“. In 2015, he met music producer Pieter Perquin (Perquisite) who made him sign with Unexpected Records.
His debut EP “Brave Enough” was released in 2016. One of the songs “Gold” was used in an advertisement for HBO. His song “High On You” became a huge success in Suriname.
So far, he has released 2 studio albums: “High On You” (2017) and “Horizon” (2019) and 13 singles.
In 2020, the singer was internally chosen to represent The Netherlands in Eurovision 2020 with the song “Grow“.
Jeangu is openly gay
Selection Process: In 2020, the singer was internally chosen to represent The Netherlands in Eurovision 2020 with the song “Grow“. However, Eurovision 2020 was canceled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. In 2021, Jeangu was internally selected once again with the song “Birth Of A New Age“.
Allocation in the Grand Final: The Netherlands has already been allocated to perform in the 23rd position in the grand final, as the host country is the first one to get its position in the grand final.
Musical Review: An uptempo gospel soul with African-inspired music. The song starts with massive monotonous keyboards playing. Right after that, an uplifting beat enters the song alongside a gospel choir singing. Jeangu sings each line of the verse, while the choir sings the line “Your rhythm is rebellion”. He emphasizes every single word in his pronunciation. A processed synth beat accompanies the melody. Jeangu sings part of it in the soul genre. Pre-chorus starts with the constant keyboard accords from the introduction. It is being signed by Sranan Tongo, language. Jeangu and the choir sing that line several times and it gets louder each time. The second verse arrives just after that, Jeangu sings it with mannerism and throat voice. Somehow, his voice got lost in the production in the means that his voice didn’t shine as it should in that part. Before the bridge, there is an African beat alongside the tribe music and percussion playing. It makes the song more festive and special.
In that part, Jeangu sings in the style of “spoken word”. Thereafter, we get another piece of the chorus where Jeangu sings in a higher voice alongside the choir. The song ends with another 2 lines in the Sranan Tongo language.
The song has an important message and it delivers musical diversity. However, it didn’t grab me as I wished it would. In my opinion, Jeangu’s voice isn’t perfect for that kind of song. The chorus is unfortunately the weakest part of this song since nothing interesting enough happens there.
I would like to get a more “challenging” melody in the chorus and even more words in the chorus which is quite constant and short.
Lyrics
Skin as rich as the starlit night
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
Deep currents running in the rivers of your eyes
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
They spat on your crown and they poisoned your ground
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
They burned your heroes at the stake
But your voice will echo all their names
This ain’t the end no
It’s the birth of a new ageYu no man broko mi
Yu no man broko mi
Yu no man broko, broko miSoul blazin ‘like a hurricane
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
Spirit roaring wild like untamed flames
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
They buried your guts, they imprisoned your thoughts
Your rhythm is rebellion, your rhythm is rebellion
They tried to drain you off your faith
But you are the rage that melts the chains
This ain’t the end no
It’s the birth of a new ageWe are the fruit born in the legacy
Of every forgotten revolutionary
Born in resilience, proud like a lion
We are the birth of a new ageYu no man broko mi
Yu no man broko mi
Yu no man broko, broko mi
Mi na afu sensi
Poetry Analysis: It’s an empowerment song that calls for us to remember our roots and find inner strength when others try to mock us down. It also has a great connection to the subject of “Black Lives Matter”. The song tells the story from the point of view of a slave after the abolition of slavery.
The spokesperson of the song described situations in his life when he was mocked down by others.
They disparage his culture and heritage:
“They spat on your crown and they poisoned your ground”,
“They burned your heroes at the stake”,
“They buried your guts, they imprisoned your thoughts”,
“They tried to drain you off your faith”
But in spite of all of that, he is strong enough to carry the burden:
“But your voice will echo all their names/ This ain’t the end no/ It’s the birth of a new age.”.
They won’t break him: “Yu no man broko mi”.
The main thing he relies on is the ethnic and unique rhythm he has got from his culture and heritage. This special sound will save him and increase his chance to survive – “Your rhythm is rebellion“.
Finally, he succeeded in breaking free and getting out of this slavery: “But you are the rage that melts the chains“.
The song ends with a hope that a significant change will come. He sees himself as a fresh and new fruit that will bring good news. Some of the revolutionaries may be forgotten or didn’t survive, but he promises to continue their line. Nowadays, more than always, he is proud of himself as a personal creature but also as part of his heritage: “We are the fruit born in the legacy/ Of every forgotten revolutionary/ Born in resilience, proud like a lion/ We are the birth of a new age“
Initial Personal Ranking: 38th overall
Odds Table: The song was released on the 4th of March 2021. Between the 4th of March and the 15th of March 2021, the song was in 22-25 places. On the 16th of March, it decreased to 26th place and thereafter started to decrease: it moved in the range of 26-31 places. Since the 17th of April, it is the 30th or 31st with betting odds.
Early Prediction: I really appreciate the choice to include lyrics in the Sranan Tongo language.
In addition, there is something brave in bringing a non-typical genre to Eurovision (In other words no more pop or radio-friendly songs). Jeangu has charisma and we can tell how connected he is with the song. However, I found the song not interesting enough. Sometimes, it sounds like an unfinished demo version. The chorus which should be the most interesting part of the song is the weakest part of the song. At the moment, I predict The Netherlands will end up in place 24-26 in the final.
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