Welcome to our new series of posts!
The moment of truth has arrived, and all 37 competing songs for Eurovision 2025 have been revealed.
So we are ready for an extended review of them and a ranking of the songs.
Each post in the series will focus on 5-6 songs.
This 3rd post will focus on 5 of the countries competing in semi-final 1: Belgium, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and The Netherlands
You can find the previous chapters here:
- Part 1: Azerbaijan, Croatia, Poland, Slovenia, Ukraine
- Part 2: Albania, Cyprus, Estonia, Portugal, San Marino
Red Sebastian – “Strobe Lights“
Red Sebastian (Seppe Guido Yvonne Herreman) is a 25-year-old Belgian singer-songwriter.
He rose to fame in 2013, at the age of 14, when he participated in the 2nd season of “Belgium’s Got Talent”.
After high school, he studied music at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Ghent.
In 2021, he released his debut album, “You.”
In 2024, he participated in the “Sing Again” music show, where he made it to the final.
In 2025, he participated in Belgium’s “Eurosong 2025” and won with the song “Strobe Lights”:
Allocation in Semi-Final
Belgium was allocated to perform in the 9th position in semi-final 1.
The country will perform after Norway and before Italy (automatic qualifier).
Initial Personal Ranking
21st overall, 7th in semi-final 1
Musical Review
- It is a trans-dance club song.
- The intro is based on a cut beat, composed of electronic fading elements. Sebastian sings this part in a low and calm tone of voice. Thereafter, we get a trans-dense beat. The production is intense and demanding, but he still sings similarly. The first pre-chorus is faster, the beat slaps more. However, the chorus goes in a less predictable direction, it is less upbeat. The emphasis is more on Sebastian’s vocals (and high, long notes). It sounds too shouty or even screaming. A techno beat follows.
- The second verse is quite short and doesn’t continue a lot. The second pre-chorus is bolder and more mysterious. The second chorus continues in the same line. Towards the end, we get a long instrumental part based on the electro-dance drop. This beat continues to the end.
- I might be going against popular opinion, but I don’t find this song attractive. The arrangement is messy, and he pushes too hard vocally. The electro-trance beats captivate some people, but it isn’t enough for me. The first chorus let me down. I still wonder why some people see this as a potential Eurovision winner.
Poetry Analysis
The song describes a story of physical attraction between lovers in a fantastical world. The first verse depicts a vibrant and fantasy world – “Cotton Candy haze/ Floatin’ up in space”. The narrator falls in love with someone, describing it as an irresistible story – “getting lost in your eyes”.
The first verse takes us to an uncommon experience reminiscent of the surreal adventures, just like in “Alice in Wonderland”. The up and down are mixed and swapped. It is described as a unique place, where the sounds and visual have different meaning – “Fallin’ where up is down/ Screaming, but won’t make a sound”. He is looking forward to enter this world, but at the same time needs a guidance.
The pre-chorus continues the concept of imaginary world, where no rules apply – “Step into the mirror to bright new dimensions / Where no words are needed to feel the connection”. When falling in love, one can find things he never knew about himself or the world. Looking at each other eyes can be more than words. The experience feels timeless – “Where clocks never tick and where love is the ending”. This metaphor conveys the idea of escaping reality, and let love do its magic.
The chorus brings the visual of strorbe lights again.
The “skinlight … caught up in the maze” conveys a sense of exhilaration and the intoxicating nature of love. The maze represent the complexity of emotions the narrator will face with his lover.
In the second verse, we get the peak point – “Flying deep underground /Silence never felt so loud” – It represents freedom and escape, while the silence that feels loud indicates a profound awareness of the moment, heightening the emotional experience.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 1
Among the countries that usually vote for Belgium, 5 of them will vote in semi-final 1: The Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Estonia and Slovenia
Betting Odds
The song was selected as the Belgian entry for Eurovision 2025 on February 1st.
By February 2nd, Belgium was predicted as the winner by the bookies.
Between February 3rd and 8th, Belgium was 2nd/3rd in the odds.
Between February 9th and 20th, Belgium was in the 5th and 6th place.
Later on, Belgium has been between the 7th and 8th place for 3 days.
Between February 24th and March 16th, Belgium was 9th/10th with the bookies.
Since March 17th, Belgium is in the 7th/8th place.
Early Prediction
Belgium is one of the countries which I struggled to predict this year.
At a certain point, it even led the betting odds. Watching the national final, we could have seen Red Sebastian knows how to perform.
However, I fear that part of the hype we have around this song is of Eurovision fans (and won’t represent the general appeal of the voters).
Due to the fact, he was good vocally, I think he will qualify. Nevertheless, I am not sure it will enter the top 10.
Prediction: 12-18 in the final
VÆB – RÓA
VÆB is an Icelandic electronic music duo, consisting of the brothers Hálfdán Helgi Matthíasson (born 4 June 2003) and Matthías Davíð Matthíasson (born 7 December 2004).
They made their debut in 2022 when releasing the album Væb tékk.
In 2024, they competed in the Icelandic selection “Söngvakeppnin 2024” with the song “Bíómynd” and ended in the 4th place.
In 2025, they won Icelandic selection “Söngvakeppnin 2025” with the song “RÓA“
Allocation in Semi-Final
Iceland was allocated to perform as the first song (1st position) in semi-final 1.
They will perform before Poland.
Initial Personal Ranking
32nd overall, 12th in semi-final 1
Musical Review
- It is a Celtic-Euro dance song with electronic elements.
- The song opens with a short instrumental part composed of string elements. After that, we get the intro, part of the chorus. One of them sings it, while the melody is based on drums and electronic beats. The first verse is pretty fast, their singing feels like more “acted” or even talking. They sing it with a lot of air and manners. The melody is based on a fast sparse beat. The first pre-chorus starts more laid back, with the melody based on keyboards playing. It gradually grows back to the upbeat direction. The first chorus (or second if we count the intro) follows. The melody is based on Celtic elements, drums and electro beat. The lyrics are quite dull and repetitive. Later on, we get a short instrumental part, which is composed on the string elements (like violin). In the background, we can hear humming.
- The second verse follows. They perform it with a thin and high voice; the interpretation is a kind of comic. Their singing isn’t that accurate. The melody features drums and beats. The second pre-chorus relies on keyboards and string elements. They sing an additional chorus, which includes a short electro drop. The song continues with a modulation, more of the Celtic part and one last chorus.
- Overall, I feel like the song is too blended. Vocally, they struggle, and moving a lot on stage doesn’t help. The intro was promising, but the verses were too messy and feverish. I found the verses a bit irritating at some point. For some reason, the song reminded me of Euro-pop, which was more popular around 2007-2009.
Poetry Analysis
The song is about self-empowerment. The main metaphor is rowing in the waves, which represents dealing with conflicts in life while trying to stay optimistic. The narrator is convinced he can do anything needed – “There is nothing that can stop me now”.
As time goes by, the narrator starts digesting to the idea of life, with all the struggles and difficulties – “Steering at sea, I am the captain/ Many months since I last saw the sun/ Want to spend the rest of my life out here at sea”.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 1
Among the countries that usually vote for Iceland, 5 of them will vote in semi-final 1: Sweden, Norway, Estonia, Portugal, and Spain.
Betting Odds
Iceland selected its song for Eurovision 2025 on February 22nd, 2025.
Ever since then, Iceland has been in 34-36 place, very close to the last place.
Early Prediction
Iceland won’t have an easy pass this year.
I am really on the fence when it comes to estimating its chance.
I can see Iceland ending in 8-12 place in the semi-final, which means they can either be a borderline-qualifier or just be close to qualifying, but won’t.
I believe that countries like Poland, Estonia and Sweden, which compete in the same half of show like them, might lowering their chance to qualify, mainly due the fact they aren’t stable performers.
If Iceland qualify, I believe they will be 20-26 in the final.
Kyle Alessandro – Lighter
Kyle Alessandro Helgesen Villalobos is a 19-year-old Norwegian singer-songwriter. He was born to a Spanish father and a Norwegian mother.
He first appeared publicly in 2017, when participating in the Norwegian version of “Got Talent” at the of 10. Later on, he appeared in the show “Allsang på Grensen”
In 2023, he was part of the group Umami Tsunami, who tool part in the Norwegian selection “Melodi Grand Prix 2023″. They performed the song “Geronimo” and ended in the 9th place in the final.
So far, he has released 2 studio albums.
In 2025, he won the Norwegian selection for Eurovision 2025 – “Melodi Grand Prix 2025″.
He will perform “Lighter” at Eurovision 2025:
Allocation in Semi-Final
Norway was allocated to perform in the 8th position, before Belgium and after Portugal
Initial Personal Ranking
22nd overall, 9th in semi-final 1.
Musical Review
- It is a mid-tempo pop with folk elements.
- The song starts with a dark and mysterious atmosphere. The melody starts with a violin playing in the background, Thereafter, keyboards and soft-electronic elements are added. We hear samples of pre-recorded backing vocals, Kyle sings the first verse accurately in a mid-tone of voice. The rate is quite slow. The pre-chorus is a bit more rhythmic, and the rate builds gradually as the beat becomes stronger. Towards the end, we can hear some orchestral elements. The chorus is based on a constant catchy beat. The arrangement of the chorus is like “Q&A”, where Kyle‘s singing is stopped for pre-recorded vocal loop and drum beat. Towards the end, he sings more emotionally and adds some manners.
- The second verse is more rhythmic. It is based on another kind of beat, with a base of keyboards and wind instruments. The backing vocals are more dominant, The second pre-chorus is slower and more melodic. The tempo continues to the second chorus, where he sings in a slightly higher tone of voice. The post-chorus is a danceable drop, with the sounds of broken glass and violin playing. This part will probably be utilized for a dance break. The bridge is more laid back and exciting. It is based on piano playing. Kyle ends this part with a long high note and some vocal decorations that lead us to the last chorus. The song ends with a festive violin playing
- In general, I like the song, but I can’t say I love it. Something in the chorus let me down. It feels like the verse and the pre-chorus builds up, but the wish isn’t fulfilled. It is a song that becomes more and more likable each time you listen to it. The violin, which somehow symbolizes Norway’s participation in the Eurovision adds a lot.
- Even though it is considered a fan favorite, I am not sure how well will it do in May.
Poetry Analysis
The song coveys a journey of self-discovery, self-empowerment, and overcoming difficulties. The song opens with “Golden girl dressed in ice, a heart as dark as night” – This is a metaphor for someone who appears to be beautiful but possesses a cold heart. This metaphor emphasizes the narrator’s situation, where there’s a contrast between external appearance and internal reality.
“you got me to dim my light” – The narrator tells us about a negative/toxic person, who made them give up their personality and character.
The narrator understands the problematic situation he went through, he is eager to start a new way, forget from the past and do anything to forget about it – “I’m not afraid to set it all on fire/
I won’t fall again, I’ll be my own lighter”. It also coveys the message of self empowerment. The narrator acknowledges his power to stand on their own and to light his own world. It is also a declaration of independence.
“nothing can burn me now” – The narrator is determined to break from past constraints. It encapsulated the essence of liberation and confidence.
The bridge contains the words “Silence fills the room/ And I’ve taken off my jewels” – It represent the purity of his feeling, there’s no mask or accessories that can hide his feelings, and the fire of self acceptance and independence he has inside him.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 1
Among the countries that usually vote for Norway, 4 of them will vote in semi-final 1: Sweden, Iceland, Estonia, and The Netherlands.
Betting Odds
Norway selected Kyle Alessandro For Eurovision 2025 on February 15th, 2025.
Between February 15th and March 17th, Norway was ranked between 25th and 27th place.
Since March 18th, Norway ha risen up to the 23rd/24th place in the odds.
Early Prediction
Norway will probably qualify for the final. Those radio-friendly songs usually can make it, even though there’s something generic about the song.
However, I am not sure the song will do as well as the fans tend to consider.
Prediction: 17-22 in the final
Claude – C’est La Vie
Claude Kiambe is a 21-year-old Congolese-born Dutch singer-songwriter.
In 2019, he participated in the 8th season of “The Voice Kids – The Netherlands”.
A year later, he won the show “Are You Next?” and earned a contract with the record label Cloud 9.
In 2022, he released his debut single “Ladada (Mon dernier mot)” and won several awards.
Claude cited Stromae and Lewis Capaldi as his biggest music inspirations.
In 2024, he released his debut album “Parler français”.
In 2025, he was internally selected to represent The Netherlands in Eurovision 2025.
He will perform the song “C’est La Vie”:
Allocation in Semi-Final
The Netherlands was allocated to perform in the 13th position, after The Netherlands and before Croatia.
Initial Personal Ranking
20th overall, 6th in semi-final 1
Musical Review
- It is a mid-tempo ballad, performed in English and French.
- The song starts with piano playing. Claude opens the song with a deep, low tone of voice. He emphasizes each syllable and sings quite slowly. The first pre-chorus is denser, as the piano playing is faster. He sings this part more intensely. The first chorus takes the song differently, more upbeat and uplifting. The lyrics repeat while the melody is based on a constant beat and piano playing.
- The second verse starts with string elements. However, it is more upbeat than the first verse since it is based on beat and percussion elements. The second pre-chorus is similar to the first one, but it also features string elements. The second chorus is memorable; it is based on a moderated beat, piano, and string elements. Later on, he sings it a higher tone of voice. The excitement was reflected in his voice. After two choruses, we get a pre-chorus which is served simply and raw, through emotional singing and playing.
- Overall, it is a radio-friendly song which is easy to remember. The language combination works quite well. The song and the video clip reminded me a lot of Stromate, which made me doubt the originality of it. I found parts of the song repetitive, especially the chorus. For me, after the first chorus, we had no surprises or something captivating. I believe the song will be elevated by Claude. It can do well, but I don’t see it as a winner.
Poetry Analysis
The song discusses the complexity of life, from happy moments to more difficult and sad moments. What’s common to all of them is fate, and that they are part of life.
The song opens with the narrator reminiscing about childhood memories – “she sang to me
I remember, I was little”. He figures out whether he can remember the melody, whether he can retrive those past memories. This give the song a sense of nostalgia.
The connection to his mother, on the maternal factor will repeal along the song. This is a metaphor to the way we shape our life by early memories.
The song discusses the cycle of life, as joy and sadness will come and go – “what goes around comes around”. The narrator tells us about the dynamics of life, when one can feel high or down – “It goes up, it goes down”. The narrator acknowledges the fact he can’t control his life – “What will be, will be”.
He feels thankful for the beautiful moments and embracing the hard one – “That’s life, and what a miracle/ Sometimes in love, sometimes miserable”.
The chanting of “C’est La Vie” invites the listener/reader to celebrate life, no matter it brings.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 1
Among the countries that usually vote for The Netherlands, 4 of them will vote in semi-final 1: Belgium, San Marino, Switzerland and Estonia.
Betting Odds
The song was revealed as The Netherlands‘ entry for Eurovision 2025 on February 27th.
On the first 3 days, the country was 5th/6th with the bookies. Later on, The Netherlands has been in the 3rd/4th place for a week.
Since March 9th, The Netherlands has been stable in the 5th place.
Early Prediction
The Netherlands will easily qualify for the final. Claude is a talented performer. I think many people will relate to his song. With the right stating, it can stand out.
Prediction: 6-11 in the final.
KAJ – Bara Bada Batsu
KAJ is a comedy music group Vörå , in Ostrobothnia, Finland. The group consists of Kevin Holmström, Axel Åhman, and Jakob Norrgård, whose first name initials form the band’s name. They are of Finnish-Swedish origin and usually perform in the Swedish language in the Vörå dialect. The band was formed in 2009.
Their music span over a wide range of genres: K-Pop, Pop, Latin, Rock, Schlager, Rap, Disco, Opera and more.
KAJ has produced two musicals at Wasa Theatre.
So far, they’ve released 7 studio albums.
In 2025, they won the Swedish national selection – “Melodifestivalen 2025”.
They will perform he song “Bara Bada Batsu”
Allocation in Semi-Final
Sweden was allocated to perform in the 6th position, after Ukraine and before Portugal.
Initial Personal Ranking
13th overall, 2nd in semi-final 1.
Musical Review
- It is an entertaining folk song.
- The song opens with accordion playing. The first verse’s melody is based on accordion and drum beat. The lead singer serves this part by reciting or soft rapping. The first bridge is more folky; the other band members sing the backing part, “Oh, oh, oh.” The bridge ends with a thick, low voice reciting about “sauna.” The first chorus is catchy. They start by singing together, and their voices combine well. The melody is based on keyboards, accordion and a moderated beat, which grows as the chorus goes on. The second part invites the listener to sing along.
- The second half of the song opens with the same accordion chords from the intro. The second verse is performed by another vocalist with a slightly lower tone of voice. The melody is based on curvy accordion playing. The second chorus follows. They sing it together, and the melody is memorable. However, this time, the chorus is shorter. Instead, we get a kind of post-chorus, which includes the name of the song again and again. The melody is based on intense keyboards and accordion while later on a danceable beat break it. The last chorus is performed in modulation and it is faster in general. The song ends with a more traditional folk emphasis.
- It is a humorous song, and yet it has its own musical identity and existence. I appreciate the fact that they didn’t offer any discounts on the musical aspects. For sure, they aren’t the biggest vocalists you could ask for, but in this kind of song, it is fine. Nevertheless, they create an appeal for different demographic audiences (age groups, countries) while still not singing in English.
- It is probably the most unexpected choice for Sweden and therefore might do better than expected (at least with the public).
Poetry Analysis
The song discusses the Scandinavian tradition of bathing in the sauna. It describes this experience as helping one calm down and become healthy: “All worries instantly go away/ The best cure for both your body and your soul.”
Sauna bathing is also described as a social gathering: “Sauna-brothers, we’re the ones aglow.” It is a place where friends meet.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 1
Among the countries that usually vote for Sweden, 4 of them will vote in semi-final 1: Norway, Estonia, Iceland, and Poland.
Betting Odds
Sweden selected the song for Eurovision 2025 on March 8th.
On this date, Sweden was 2nd with the bookies.
Since March 9th, Sweden has been the bookies’ prediction to win the contest!
Early Prediction
Historically, Sweden is a country with impressive records in the contest. It seems that this won’t change this year. They usually tend to do better with the jury, but this time their entry seems like more public-vote-friendly. Their choice to send.a non-English song is brave, and might even give them more appreciation by the public.
I believe it will be a contender to win the trophy.
Prediction: 1-4 in the final .
In the next chapter, we will review some of the countries from semi-final 2
Eurovision 2025 will be held in Basel, Switzerland, on the 13th, 15th, and 17th of May 2025
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