ESC Insight: Eurovision Song Contest Podcast
Join Ewan Spence and ESC Insight as they take you on the journey that is the Eurovision Song Contest. From an introduction to the contest and rules, through the songs chosen by each country to backstage at the stadium, this is your unofficial guide to one of the world's favourite television shows, with over 200 million viewers worldwide each year.
Fri, March 28, 2025
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2025 #2
We carry on looking at the sogs heading to Malmö for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. They all might be fighting for the hits, misses, and maybes, but the journey is just as important as the result. Join us now… Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #2 with MJ Brayford ( ESC Phoenix ) and Fin Ross Russell ( Island Life Productions ). Azerbaijan : Run with U, by Mamagama. Czechia : Kiss Kiss Goodbye, by Adonxs. Serbia : Mila, by Princ. France : Maman, by Louane. Denmark : Hallucination, by Sissal. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2025 #2 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sat, March 22, 2025
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2025 #1
As the National Final season ends, the Review Season begins. Which means, at least for ESC Insight, it’s time to welcome back Juke Box Jury. We’ll be with you right up to the start of the rehearsals in Basel, as we talk about this year’s songs over seven shows. Who will pick up the hits, the misses, and maybes? Let’s find out. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #1 with Dudepoints ( dudepoints.fun ) and Matt Baker ( Second Cherry ). Latvia : Bur man laimi, by Tautumeitas Lithuania : Tavo akys, by Katarsis . Luxembourg : La poupée monte le son, by Laura Thorn. Armenia : Survivor, by Parg. Finland : Ich Komme, by Erika Vikman. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Basel for Eurovision 2025 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2025 #1 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, March 14, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Waiting For Some Odd Shaped Balls
And with that, the National Finals are over. As we publish the latest Insight News podcast we’re waiting on France to declare its entry to the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest. The community’s reaction is in the spotlight this week, as are the artists’ reactions. Other delegations are working the PR machines to get as much love inside the community and to try and create the all-important buzz with the general public. With the submission deadline now passed, what can we expect over the next few weeks? Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Waiting For Some Odd Shaped Balls Why are we getting ready to watch some grown men chase an odd-shaped ball around a rugby field, the big deadline wooshes past us, and some surprising weekend results have energised the final lap of National Finals. Scott Reid and Ewan Spence go over this week’s talking points on the Insight News podcast. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Waiting For Some Odd Shaped Balls appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, March 06, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Losing The Televote
With one weekend of National Finals to go, the Eurovision playlist for Basel 2025 is almost full of the songs of every nation. Yet the global nature of the Song Contest has been brought into sharp focus with international songwriters contributing throughout the shows and cultural norms being challenged across borders. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Losing The Televote Why there are so many Colors at Eurovision, what does it mean to lose your National Final televote, how OFCOM impacts the Song Contest, and more… Ewan Spence and Martin Bishop discuss the week’s hot topics in the Insight News podcast. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Losing The Televote appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, March 03, 2025
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: One Last Thing...
Welcome To Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In episode six, the final episode looking at the 2024 season, Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim, widen the scope of the podcast to look at some of the other political moments that impacted Malmö 2024, albeit without as much coverage in the mainstream press as the Israeli entry. How are the tensions between Armenia and Azerbaijan reflected in the Contest, how close was controversy in the Serbian selection to disrupting Malmö 2024, and how should the EBU decide which countries should be represented by their national broadcaster at the Song Contest? Our Principles Of Discussion Before we go on, a quick reminder of the principles we are holding to in this series. Discussing Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one, we introduced three ground rules to frame our podcasts. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of Israel was in response to centuries of antisemitism and the horrors of the Holocaust, and also that its founding was marked by massacres and forced displacement of the local Arab population. Likewise, it can be true that Israelis have a right not to be victims of Hamas terrorism, and Palestinians have a right not to be bombed by Israeli warplanes. These are not contradictory. Explanation is not justification . When we say that decades of oppression against the Palestinians contributed to October 7th, that is not to justify the atrocities of that day. Likewise, in describing those atrocities, this does not render the mass destruction inflicted by Israel on Gaza acceptable. If one side in a conflict commits a war crime, that doesn’t mean the other side gets a free war crime . Because, unbelievably, that point still has to be made. <img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-219597" class="size-full wp-image-219597" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg" alt="Eurovision stage concept for Malmo 2024 (EBU / SVT)" width="640" height="360" srcset="https://e
Thu, February 27, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Introverted Glam Rock
A single National Final last week, a slice of Icelandic vibes between two Super Saturdays. Of course, there was the small matter of Måns Zelmerlow in his Melodifestivalen heat to set tongues wagging in the community. Michelle Kittens ( That Eurovision Site ) joins us on the News Pod this week to discuss a roller-coaster week that moves through the Semi Finals, talks about how a TV theme tune could be heading to Basel, why Melodifestivalen is more an industry than a Eurovision selection and more… Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Introverted Glam Rock Protecting some fragile staging, the responsibility in the Melfest press room, and how to troll your bigger and more successful musical neighbour. Ewan Spence and Michelle Kittens bounce round Europe for this week’s Song Contest podcast. Watch Michelle’s interviews from Melfest at That Eurovision Site . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Introverted Glam Rock appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, February 20, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Fake Tans And Commercial Breaks
The latest Super Saturday is over, and there are lots of discussion points to choose from in this week’s Insight News podcast. This week, we’re joined by Phoneix ESC’s MJ to talk about the differences between watching the show and being in the audience, deciding to go for a National Final or an Internal Selection, and what moment earns our weekly nomination for the Eurovision Iceberg. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Fake Tans And Commercial Breaks Calling up an Italian legend, sneaking in a Dashing White Sergeant from Scotland, and the delights of an Irish hamper. Ewan Spence and MJ head round the continent to discuss seven days of song. Listen to ‘ Instead We Made A Pod ‘ at Phoenix ESC . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Fake Tans And Commercial Breaks appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, February 13, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Serving Camp
A packed weekend of Song Contest selections saw some spectacular shows, as well as controversy around lyrics, feedback, and running length. Gina Jones joins Ewan Spence to continue the discussions. Our nominations for the Iceberg start and end (on time) in Italy. Then we move to Finland and the increasingly spectacular UMK shows. Malta gets in on the action with lyrics that court controversy and heightened conversations. Finally, we head to The Late Late Show to discuss the tension between Reality TV panels and the Jury Feedback in Eurovision selections. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Serving Camp The words and the music of Eurovision come under the spotlight once more, as Ewan Spence and Gina Jones discuss the latest headlines in the Song Contest world. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Serving Camp appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, February 07, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Where Internal Selections Roam Free
It’s been a packed week in the world of the Song Contest, with lots of discussion points and debates to be had. Ewan Spence and Tom Hendryck pick out some of them to talk about in the latest Insight News podcast. As well as our weekly nomination for the Iceberg, they talk about the various ways of announcing an Internal selection, who best to do it, and what mistakes to avoid; Finland’s shrewd decision to give the UMK winner an advantage, and the power of small social networks to make the community a place of safety for all. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Where Internal Selections Roam Free How to announce an internal selection, adding some Spanish to the iceberg, thinking about keeping our digital family in touch, and more. Ewan Spence and Tom Hendryck discuss the latest news from the Eurovision Song Contest world. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Where Internal Selections Roam Free appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, February 06, 2025
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: Grand Final Pressure
Welcome To Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In particular, hosts Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim will attempt to contextualise the fierce rows over the Israeli entry for Malmö 2024. In episode five, the date is May 11th 2024, and we arrive at the Grand Final of the 68th Eurovision Song Contest. How does the pressure leading up to the live show play out, how did the likes of Israel, Luxembourg, and the United Kingdom fare, and how important is the Song Contest to the wider world? Our Principles Of Discussion Before we go on, a quick reminder of the principles we are holding to in this series. Discussing Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one, we introduced three ground rules to frame our podcasts. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of Israel was in response to centuries of antisemitism and the horrors of the Holocaust, and also that its founding was marked by massacres and forced displacement of the local Arab population. Likewise, it can be true that Israelis have a right not to be victims of Hamas terrorism, and Palestinians have a right not to be bombed by Israeli warplanes. These are not contradictory. Explanation is not justification . When we say that decades of oppression against the Palestinians contributed to October 7th, that is not to justify the atrocities of that day. Likewise, in describing those atrocities, this does not render the mass destruction inflicted by Israel on Gaza acceptable. If one side in a conflict commits a war crime, that doesn’t mean the other side gets a free war crime . Because, unbelievably, that point still has to be made. <img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-219597" class="size-full wp-image-219597" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg" alt="Eurovision stage concept for Malmo 2024 (EBU / SVT)" width="640" height="360" srcset="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg 640w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2
Thu, January 30, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Work That Becomes A New Genre Is Eurovision
This week on the Insight News podcast, Ewan Spence is joined by AJ Clay ( Keep Watching podcast ) to discuss seven days in the world of the Eurovision Song Contest. They discuss the impact of the Semi Final Draw, who’s singing when, and wonder what happened to the Keys to the Host Cities; the impact of storytelling at the Luxembourg National Final, and why there is no such thing as a Eurovision Genre. They also nominate the BBC’s Claudia Winkleman for the Iceberg and look ahead to a busy Eurovision weekend. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Work That Becomes A New Genre Is Eurovision Betrayed by The Traitors, memories of France Gall, a bit of popera, and more. Ewan Spence and AJ Clay discuss the latest news from the Eurovision Song Contest world. Join AJ and the team at Keep Watching for more Light Entertainment TV discussion. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Work That Becomes A New Genre Is Eurovision appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, January 23, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who's Still Entering The Song Contest?
Faith Martin ( @EurovisionFaith ) joins Ewan Spence on this week’s Insight News podcast to discuss this week’s wonderful world of Eurovision. We have our hosts to discuss and the roles they play, the announcement of 36,000 tickets for the Watch Party next door to St Jakobshalle in Basel, Moldova’s withdrawal, the advantages and disadvantages of Superfinals in National Selections, and the Iceberg moment of the week. And, as always, we look forward to the weekend. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who’s Still Entering The Song Contest? Hello to 36,000 tickets, goodbye to Moldova and let’s welcome two hosts, three hosts, five hosts, a mascot, and more. Ewan Spence and Faith Martin discuss the latest ups and downs from the Eurovision Song Contest. Faith’s YouTube essay on “ How The UK Can Win Eurovision ” can be found here. TRM’s statemenet on Moldova’s Withdrawl from Basel 2025 . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who’s Still Entering The Song Contest? appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, January 16, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Germany Goes All In
It’s our second Insight News podcast of the year, and the second run at the new format. After last week’s double-length episode that to cover everything from September 1st, this episode only needs cover one week in the Song Contest. Samantha Ross ( 12 Points From America ) joins Ewan Spence to talk about Lithuania’s Eurovizija.lt Semi Finals and how they reach out to the international audience We do have results from Lithuania’s first Semi Final to talk about, as well as what we’ll add to our iceberg this week, German broadcaster NDR’s high risk strategy for victory, and a discussion about the different options a broadcaster has when presenting songs to the community. And, as always, we look forward to what happens next. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Germany Goes All In Songs and schedules, Germany’s “all-in” decision, getting thrown around the Azeri stage, and more. Ewan Spence and Samantha look at seven days of the Eurovision Song Contest. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Germany Goes All In appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, January 10, 2025
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Icebergs, Ahoy!
This weekend will see the first Semi Final in Lithuania’s journey to select a song for the Eurovision Song Contest, and it’s the first of eight weekends that will be filled with non-stop National Selection action. That’s on top of the two National Final winners and internal selections on the board already. Yes, it’s getting busy! And what helps when it’s busy is the Insight News Podcast. There’s a slight change to the format this year; each week, Ewan Spence will be joined by a guest from the wonderful world of Eurovision to talk over the latest happenings. In this week’s double-length episode, Dudepoint ( dudepoints.fun ) joins the podcast to look back at the news from December, national results from Montenegro and Albania, and to look forward to what happens next. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Icebergs, Ahoy! A flood of songs, a diary of adventure, and why is everyone getting disqualified? Ewan Spence and Dudepoints discuss the latest ups and downs from the Eurovision Song Contest. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Icebergs, Ahoy! appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, January 06, 2025
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: Protesting From The Malmö Stage
Welcome To Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In particular, hosts Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim will attempt to contextualise the fierce rows over the Israeli entry for Malmö 2024. In episode four , we arrive in Malmö for the sixty-ninth edition of the Song Contest. Tensions are high all round, and several artists are looking at their moment in the global spotlight as an opportunity to speak to the world on the issue of the day. How were those protests made, what impact did they have, and how did they fuel the narrative of Malmö? Our Principles Of Discussion Before we go on, a quick reminder of the principles we are holding to in this series. Discussing Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one, we introduced three ground rules to frame our podcasts. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of Israel was in response to centuries of antisemitism and the horrors of the Holocaust, and also that its founding was marked by massacres and forced displacement of the local Arab population. Likewise, it can be true that Israelis have a right not to be victims of Hamas terrorism, and Palestinians have a right not to be bombed by Israeli warplanes. These are not contradictory. Explanation is not justification . When we say that decades of oppression against the Palestinians contributed to October 7th, that is not to justify the atrocities of that day. Likewise, in describing those atrocities, this does not render the mass destruction inflicted by Israel on Gaza acceptable. If one side in a conflict commits a war crime, that doesn’t mean the other side gets a free war crime . Because, unbelievably, that point still has to be made. <img decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-219597" class="size-full wp-image-219597" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg" alt="Eurovision stage concept for Malmo 2024 (EBU / SVT)" width="640" height="360" srcset="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.
Wed, December 18, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Basel 2025 Art Director Artur Deyneuve
This week saw the launch of the Basel 2025 branding . While the Eurovision Song Contest has an overall look, each host city and year carries their own look reflecting the city, the country, and the values of the Contest. Artur Deyneuve is leading the team for Basel. ESC Insight’s Ewan Spence sat down with Artur following the launch to find out more about this year’s identity . They talk about several topics, including… How Artur became the Art Director for Basel 2025. The inspiration behind the logo and the story it tells. The controversial choice of font. Selected Quotes From The Interview The Eureka Moment… “It was around August. There was a day that I was working super late, I was having one of those days of creative deep dives. You are just there, on the internet, looking around. Is an idea going to come? At some point, I was surfing on the web and came across this meme. … and the moment I saw this meme of two years coming together to shape a heart, I felt goosebumps over my body. I felt a little bit of ‘ boop!’ in my stomach and I was like ‘yeah, this is it, there is no other story’ .” The Controversial Font Choice… “We looked into Liverpool; a nice typeface, all caps, san serif, nice. We looked at last year, and oh, all caps and serif are included as well. All caps… looks like everyone likes to shout at us. This typography is just shouting in my face. “Because we have our creative approach and our creative idea; we are here to listen and to chat, we don’t want to shout . That’s why we went to that typeface. We use a serif typeface because serif is more connected to storytelling, to chat, to calming down. And not having a big typeface shouting in my face.” The Heart Of Eurovision… “If you ask someone ‘Why do you buy a pair of socks with a swoosh,’ ‘Why do you buy a pair of socks with the Adidas logo there? ‘ it’s because they are buying a brand. You don’t try to tell people what Adidas is; you just put the logo on . And it is the same with Eurovision. “It’s so big, so strong, and for so many fans, this is what they want. It’s Eurovision, and that’s the Eurovision logo, and that’s the Eurovision heart. You have to love this; if you don’t love this, you’re not a Eurovision fan.” Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Basel 2025 Art Director Artur Deyneuve Ewan Spence sits down with Artur Deyneuve to talk about the visual design of Basel 2025, the Swiss Grid, half tone images, why Helvetica is not the chosen font, and more… Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and follow its journey to Basel by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/podcast/the-unofficial-eurovi
Wed, November 27, 2024
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: The Malmö Boycott And The Irish Witch
Content Warning This podcast episode includes discussions of violence, and mentions of sexual violence and rape. Welcome To Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In particular, hosts Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim will attempt to contextualise the fierce rows over the Israeli entry for Malmö 2024. In episode three, we look at Ireland’s entry to the Contest and the intensely outspoken Bambi Thug. From their formative years discovering themselves and their artistry, through RTE’s Eurosong selection, and to the pressures of Malmö, how did Bambi Thug use the stage of the Song Contest to amplify their message, and how did others want that stage to be used? Our Principles Of Discussion Before we go on, a quick reminder of the principles we are holding to in this series. Discussing Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one, we introduced three ground rules to frame our podcasts. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of Israel was in response to centuries of antisemitism and the horrors of the Holocaust, and also that its founding was marked by massacres and forced displacement of the local Arab population. Likewise, it can be true that Israelis have a right not to be victims of Hamas terrorism, and Palestinians have a right not to be bombed by Israeli warplanes. These are not contradictory. Explanation is not justification . When we say that decades of oppression against the Palestinians contributed to October 7th, that is not to justify the atrocities of that day. Likewise, in describing those atrocities, this does not render the mass destruction inflicted by Israel on Gaza acceptable. If one side in a conflict commits a war crime, that doesn’t mean the other side gets a free war crime . Because, unbelievably, that point still has to be made. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-219597" class="size-full wp-image-219597" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg" al
Tue, November 12, 2024
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Loreen
Welcome to the latest episode of the Eurovision Masterpiece Collection. There’s more to our favourite singers than their Song Contest entries, so join David Horton as he highlights some of the best music away from the Eurovision stage. In our latest musical moment, David’s audience picks out three favourites from Eurovision legend Loreen. Loreen first came to the attention of the Swedish public during the first season of Sweden’s version of Pop Idol (Idol 2024). She finished fourth, with a single released the following year. That led to her working in various presenting and production roles in Swedish television before entering Melodifestivalen 2011 with ‘ My Heart Is Refusing Me ‘ reaching the Second Chance round. 2024 was the year of Euphoria. Winning Melodifestivalen, winning Eurovision, and charting across Europe (including a Top 3 in the UK charts, the highest of any non-UK entry since Johnny Logan’s second Eurovision-winning song ‘ Hold Me Now ‘). As we now know, that wasn’t the only record of Logan’s that Loreen would challenge. With more Melodifestivalen entries, chart hits, and albums in the catalogue, which of Loreen’s songs would you add to the Masterpiece Collection? Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Loreen David Horton presents three classic Loreen tracks chosen by the audience. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season begins by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . And you can listen to more Eurovision music each Sunday night with David online at thedavidhortonshow.co.uk , The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Loreen appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, November 05, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Eurovision Reference Group Chair Bakel Walden
As the Eurovision Song Contest moves forward and Basel 2025 comes into view, the events leading up to, during, and after the Song Contest’s third visit to Malmö continue to echo around the community. Bakel Walden, the current chair of the Eurovision Song Contest Reference Group, returns to the ESC Insight podcast and joins Ewan Spence to talk about the state of the Contest as the momentum builds for another season. They talk about several topics, including… …Noa Kirel singing on the Eurovision stage under the Israeli flag, against the backdrop of the horrific events of October 7th, the political nature of KAN’s first submission and the subsequent changes to arrive at ‘ Hurricane ‘. …the decision-making process in Malmö leading to the disqualification of Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS and singer Joost Klein. …the pressure and vitriol on social media’s coverage of the Song Contest. …the steps being taken to create safe spaces for artists, delegations, staff, and the community at future Contests. …and the Reference Group’s involvement in Host City selections. Selected Quotes From The Interview On KAN’s Participation: “It was very simple. They [KAN] are a member of EBU, it has been expressed quite a lot of times by the EBU that as a member, as long as you play by the rules, you are eligible to participate and that was the case of KAN, that they are eligible to participate. There were obviously different opinions in social media, we’ve heard from delegations, etc. but at the end of the day, there was not one single member of the EBU who expressed any official resentment .” On Russia’s exclusion in 2022, and Israel’s inclusion in 2024: “There’s a clear difference between a state broadcaster that is just following propaganda, which is not actually playing by the rules and values of the EBU. “KAN itself has been in a difficult situation, also with the Israeli government. There is a different situation in how they position themselves, but I absolutely acknowledge that me and the Reference Group have been very much aware that the difference hasn’t been clear and hasn’t been also accepted by a lot of people ; and I think this is also one of the learnings for the EBU and probably also the Reference Group, that this has not been well enough communicated, not openly, transparent [and not] early enough.” On the process to disqualify Joost Klein: “The EBU is proposing a disqualification, and the Reference Group approves it or doesn’t… and what we did is, of course, have a discussion, all of us; meaning the EBU Core Team, the Executive Supervisor, the Media Director, and myself. And we also discussed this then with the Executive Committee- the Executive Board—which I mentioned before, the highest committee of the EBU, the Expo—who approved this. I personally informed the Reference Group so <s
Mon, October 21, 2024
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: How To Politicise A Song
Welcome To Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In particular, hosts Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim will attempt to contextualise the fierce rows over the Israeli entry for Malmö 2024. In episode two, we look at the National Selections of HaKokhav HaBa in Israel and al Söngvakeppnin in Iceland. Two artists stood out in these competitions. We will consider both ‘ October Rain ‘ and ‘ Hurricane ‘ from Israeli singer Eden Golan, and ‘ Wild West/Vestrið villt ‘ from Palestinian singer Bashar Murad. What viewpoints did they represent, how did the community and the organisers react to these songs, and why do many consider them political songs? Our Principles Of Discussion Before we go on, a quick reminder of the principles we are holding to in this series. Discussing Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one, we introduced three ground rules to frame our podcasts. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of Israel was in response to centuries of antisemitism and the horrors of the Holocaust, and also that its founding was marked by massacres and forced displacement of the local Arab population. Likewise, it can be true that Israelis have a right not to be victims of Hamas terrorism, and Palestinians have a right not to be bombed by Israeli warplanes. These are not contradictory. Explanation is not justification . When we say that decades of oppression against the Palestinians contributed to October 7th, that is not to justify the atrocities of that day. Likewise, in describing those atrocities, this does not render the mass destruction inflicted by Israel on Gaza acceptable. If one side in a conflict commits a war crime, that doesn’t mean the other side gets a free war crime . Because, unbelievably, that point still has to be made. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-219597" class="size-full wp-image-219597" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/malmo_2024_eurovision_stage.jpg" alt="Eurovision stag
Fri, October 11, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Pan-Arcticvision's Artistic Director Amund Sjølie Sveen
This weekend will see the second edition of the Pan-Arcticvision Song Contest. Ten performers taking to the stage, looking for the votes of the watching TV audiences from around the world, all to foster a sense of belonging and identity. The story of the Contest starts with the Faroe Islands and the difficulty it has being represented on the international stage. It is a similar story for many of the territories in the circumpolar north. Following on from last year’s event in Norway, the Contest moves to Greenland and welcomes nine acts to the stage, including Evgeny Goman performing as one of many Russian Arctic Exiles. Ahead of the Contest, ESC Insight’s Phil Dore sat down to talk about issues from cultural identity and representation, singing in native languages, and the impact of geographical distance in the North. You can follow the Contest, watch it live, and cast your vote from The Rest Of The World, at panarcticvision.org . Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Pan-Arcticvision’s Artistic Director Amund Sjølie Sveen What is Pan-Arcticvision, what can we expect to see, can we vote? Those questions and more are asked by Phil Dore, as he sits down with artistic director Amund Sjølie Sveen. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest and its wider impact on the cultural world by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Pan-Arcticvision’s Artistic Director Amund Sjølie Sveen appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, October 08, 2024
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Duncan Laurence
Welcome to the Eurovision Masterpiece Collection. There’s more to our favourite singers than their Song Contest entries, so join David Horton as he highlights some of the best music away from the Eurovision stage. In our latest musical moment, David picks out three favourites from 2019’s winner, Duncan Laurence. His breakthrough appearance in The Netherlands was his appearance on The Voice. Coached by Eurovision Alumni Ilse DeLange, he reached the Semi Finals, which saw him decide to leave The Slick and pursue a solo career. Wind the clock forward a few years, and DeLange pitches him to AVROTROS as the Dutch representative for Eurovision 2019. Beyond that stage, which of his songs and performances belong in the Masterpiece Collection? And if you could add one more to the mix, which would you choose? Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Duncan Laurence David Horton presents three classic Duncan Laurence tracks. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season begins by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . And you can listen to more Eurovision music each Sunday night with David online at thedavidhortonshow.co.uk , The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Duncan Laurence appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, September 30, 2024
ESC Insight Presents.....Eurovision Wars: Malmö 2024 In Context
Content Warning This podcast episode includes discussions of violence, including sexual violence. This Is Eurovision Wars Eurovision Wars is a series of podcasts exploring geopolitical themes as they emerged on the Eurovision Song Contest stage . You can listen to Seasons 1 and 2 in full on Spotify , covering such topics as the Russia-Ukraine War, and the long-running dispute between Azerbaijan and Armenia. For Season 3, the podcast moves to its new home at ESC Insight, and will focus on the many controversies of Eurovision 2024. In particular, hosts Phil Doré and Ana Oppenheim will attempt to contextualise the fierce rows over the Israeli entry . For this first episode, we place the Eurovision Song Contest of 2024 in its geopolitical context, looking back at the difficult and complex history of the Gaza Strip, the history of Israel’s participation in the Song Contest, and the horrific events of October 7th. In subsequent episodes, we’ll consider Eden Golan’s highly-politicised entry ‘ Hurricane’ , Bashar Murad’s attempt to bring a Palestinian viewpoint to the Contest, and how the controversy impacted other artists such as Ireland’s Bambie Thug and the United Kindom’s Olly Alexander. In the fifth and final monthly episode, we explore the other controversies of 2024, such as those involving Azerbaijan and Serbia. Eurovision Art Installation in Malmo (Photo: Ewan Spence) Our Principles Of Discussion Discussion of Israel and Palestine is inevitably difficult and polarising, so in episode one we introduced three ground rules to frame our discussion for this season. Be willing to keep more than one thought in your head . It can be true that the founding of the state of I
Sat, September 21, 2024
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Anna Bergendahl
Welcome to the Eurovision Masterpiece Collection. There’s more to our favourite singers than their Song Contest entries, so join David Horton as he highlights some of the best music away from the Eurovision stage over the next few months. In our first musical snack, David picks out his personal favourites from Anna Bergendahl. Starting out on TV4’s Super Troupers in 2004, an appearance on Idol 2008 brought her wide recognition across Sweden. The international audience would meet her during Melodifestivalen 2010 and her subsequent trip to Oslo for the Eurovision Song Contest. She’s been trying to get back ever since, and there have been a lot of potential songs alongside some great singles and fantastic deep-cuts on her albums. But which songs belong in the Masterpiece Collection? And if you could add one more to the mix, which would you choose? Let us know in the comments. Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Anna Bergendahl David Horton presents four classic Anna Bergendahl tracks. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season begins by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . And you can listen to more Eurovision music each Sunday night with David online at thedavidhortonshow.co.uk , The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Masterpiece Collection: Anna Bergendahl appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, September 12, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Reset The Song Contest Clock
Welcome to September, the semi-official start of the Eurovision Song Contest season. With the “songs performed in public after September 1st” eligibility date passed, the music can begin. And while we don’t have any Eurovision or National Final songs yet, we do have an artist. We also have the impact and fallout of the 2024 season to consider. This is a year when the Song Contest will need to demonstrate change to broadcasters, performers, the community, and TV and radio audiences around the world. Let’s get started. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Reset The Song Contest Clock Someone is coming back, someone is announced, and everyone needs to think about trust. All that and more, as we welcome you to the new Song Contest season. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season begins by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Reset The Song Contest Clock appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, May 20, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Celebrating 1001 Podcasts
You might have heard the mention at the end of our final podcast from Malmö 2024, but for those who didn’t, that was the 1000th podcast from ESC Insight. It’s a milestone certainly worthy of celebration, but at the end of a long Eurovision season, we wanted to do something a little bit more than “thanks for listening.” Which brings us to today, and Podcast 1001; a journey down memory lane with Ewan looking back over fourteen years of podcasting the Eurovision Song Contest. It’s guided by Rob Lilley-Jones from The Eurotrip Podcast in a subtle crossover episode of Eurotrip’s “The Contest And Me” and ESC Insight’s “Chat Over Coffee.” Settle back in for some of our history. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Celebrating 1001 Podcasts To celebrate ESC Insight’s 1,000th podcast, Ewan Spence invites Rob Lilley-Jones from The Eurotrip Podcast to talk about reaching this podcasting landmark, the history of the ESC Insight podcast, memories of the Song Contest, and some tough questions on favourite songs and moments. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions through the summer by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Celebrating 1001 Podcasts appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sun, May 12, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final News From Malmö, Sunday 12th May
There’s lots to look back on, and over the summer months, we’ll be sure to do that. But for now, here are our highlights from the Grand Final, the week in Malmö, and the 2024 season as we bring the curtain down. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final News From Malmö, Sunday 12th May Ewan Spence, Fin Ross Russell, and Dude Points are joined by Samantha Ross and Marcus Björkander to take a quick look back at the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest before we all leave Malmö. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions through the summer by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final News From Malmö, Sunday 12th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sat, May 11, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Saturday 11th May
As the Eurovision Finale approaches, we explore a range of different show dimensions set to influence this year’s result. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Saturday 11th May Fin Ross Russell & Dude Points are joined by 12 Points From America’s Erik Nelson to preview the 2024 Eurovision Grand Final. They discuss the best of the big 5 & Sweden, the intricacies of the running order and the potential surprises of the Grand Final before calling who they each think is winning this year’s competition. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Saturday 11th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, May 10, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Friday 10th May
Between Swedish musical numbers, surprise results and a schlager-filled finale, there was so much to enjoy as the Eurovision 2024 Semi Finals concluded. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Friday 10th May Fin Ross Russell & Dude Points are joined by 12 Points from America’s Liz Capouch to reflect on a surprise-filled Semi Final Two. They talk about Dutch jury appeal, Estonian legacy and Armenian “pash” before sharing some unique ways of enjoying the Malmö atmosphere. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Friday 10th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, May 09, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Thursday 8th May
With even more great songs, staging and skits, we’re excited to present our podcast preview of Semi Final Two. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Thursday 9th May Fin Ross Russell and Dude Points are joined by Eurovision Bulgaria’s Madlen Tutelian to preview Semi Final Two. They discuss sensual Slimane, the double feature of Spanish performances and the return of the Norwegian language to the contest. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Thursday 9th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, May 09, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Rockart Design's Nicoline Refsing
Nicoline Refsing has a long and storied career at the Eurovision Song Contest, working with numerous artists at Eurovision and Junior Eurovision, as well as taking on the 2014 Contest in Copenhagen as Creative Director and Content Producer. This year, she is working with Dons to bring ‘Hollow’ to the Malmö Arena stage. How does the collaborative process work between creatives at the Song Contest, how does knowledge of the show and the stage impact the choices being made, and how do these change throughout the rehearsal period? And how do you build a career designing the biggest musical events in the world? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Rockart Design’s Nicoline Refsing Ewan sits down with Nicoline Refsing to talk about the creative process, building an artistic career, and how the staging for Dons’ ‘ Hollow ‘ came to life. Find more out about Rockart Design at rockartdesign.com . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the year by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Rockart Design’s Nicoline Refsing appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, May 08, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 2)
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 2) …with Dude Points ( DudePoints.fun ). Join Dude Points as she chats with the artists at this year’s Eurovision In Concert; featuring Kaleen, Aiko, Nutsa Buzaladze, Gåte, and cameos from Cornald Mass and Mustii. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as the show reaches Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 2) appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, May 08, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Wednesday 7th May
As fifteen brilliant artists brought their a-game to the Malmö Arena, only ten could qualify for Saturday night’s Grand Final. We showcase the successful acts whilst giving a shout out to our treasured unsuccessful ones. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Wednesday 8th May Following an electric first Semi Final, Fin Ross Russell and Dude Points sit down with first-time arena audience member Melanie Ross Russell. They discuss Ukrainian changes from Vidbir, a positive Lithuanian trajectory and the buzz around Ireland before reflecting on some surprise non-qualifiers and accidentally finding Nemo. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Wednesday 8th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, May 08, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, BBC Eurovision's Transmission Director Stephen Neal
Stephen Neal is a Live Multicamera Studio Director for BBC Studios. His day job is directing The One Show, but every year he puts on his Eurovision hat as the UK Transmission Director for our Song Contest. He started his Eurovision Transmission role in 2013, and as the Contest returns to Malmö, Ewan sits down with Stephen to talk about his work bringing the Song Contest to air. Three issues that the UK community will be aware of in the broadcast include warnings about flashing lights and moving images, how public voting is promoted during the show, and the curious lack of sponsors on the BBC broadcast compared to the official YouTube stream. Neal goes into depth about why these are in place, how they get there, and why they are a key part of the BBC’s mission to serve every member of the public. Stephen was also involved in the planning stages of Liverpool 2023, where his Eurovision knowledge helped shape the technical details of the BBC’s broadcast of the Contest. As part of a huge team working on the show, he considered the technical script, the logistics, and the various back-ups required to get on the air. Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, BBC Eurovision’s Transmission Director Stephen Neal Stephen Neal is part of the team that brings the Song Contest to the United Kingdom. As he prepares for his eleventh Contest, he joins Ewan Spence to talk about a career behind the cameras, the planning that goes into a Eurovision broadcast, and how the Contest is tailored to the needs of a UK audience. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the year by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, BBC Eurovision’s Transmission Director Stephen Neal appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, May 07, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Tuesday 7th May
Semi Final One is here and with fifteen countries competing for a spot in Saturday night’s Grand Final as well as the United Kingdom and Germany performing alongside hosts Sweden, there’s lots to unpack and go through in today’s podcast. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Tuesday 7th May Fin Ross Russell & Dude Points are joined by Malmo-born Anton Rasegard to preview Semi Final One. They discuss fantastic Swedish production, Irish momentum and Luxembourg’s return before ending with some unique moments from around Malmö. Stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Tuesday 7th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, May 07, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 1)
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 1) …with Dude Points ( DudePoints.fun ). Join Dude Points as she chats with the artists at this year’s Eurovision In Concert; featuring Windows95 Man, Silvester Belt, Hera Björk, Nebulossa, and Bambie Thug. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as the show reaches Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, Eurovision in Concert (Part 1) appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, May 06, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Monday 6th May
Welcome back to Malmö as we kick off our coverage of the 2024 Eurovision Song Contest. With as many exciting new additions as show aspects that stayed the same, there’s plenty to catch you up on as we head into this year’s contest. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Monday 6th May Fin Ross Russell and Dude Points sit down with Samantha Ross to kick off our daily podcasts from Malmö. They discuss the atmosphere around the city, the changes to this year’s regulations and why the competition this year is still too close to call! With the Semi Finals almost here, stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Malmö, Monday 6th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sat, May 04, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, London Eurovision 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, London Eurovision 2024 …with Dude Points ( DudePoints.fun ). Join Dude Points as she chats with the artists at this year’s London Eurovision Party; featuring Stand Uniqu3 (UK JESC 2023), Michael Rice (UK 2019), Natalia Barbu, Dons, Marcus & Martinus, Tali, 5miinust and Puuluup, and Isaak. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as the show reaches Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Meet The Artists, London Eurovision 2024 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, May 03, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #7
We have five songs left from the Eurovision 20204 songs that we will be reviewing, so one last time, let’s bring in the hits, the misses, and the maybes. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #7 with Matthew Ker ( Majiker ) and Dude Points ( DudePoints.fun ). France : Mon amour, by Slimane. Georgia : Firefighter, by Nutsa Buzaladze. Australia : One Milkali (One Blood), by Electric Fields. Latvia : Hollow, by Dons. Sweden : Unforgettable, by Marcus & Martinus. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #7 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, April 29, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #6
You might have noticed, but we’re running a touch late with the Juke Box Jury episodes, but rest assured we’ll have the final episode out before the weekend is out. Just remember that we did record all the shows before the rehearsals started. With that… Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #6 with Samantha Ross ( 12 Points From America ) Gina Jones ( @ItsGinaJones ). Ireland : Doomsday Blue, by Bambie Thug. Serbia : Ramonda, by Teya Dora. Austria : We Will Rave, by Kaleen. Switzerland : The Code, by Nemo. Netherlands : Europapa, by Joost Klein. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #6 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, April 23, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #5
Into the back half of the songs to review for Juke Box Jury, as everyone gets ready for the trip to Malmö 2024. But will they get a hit, a miss, or a maybe stamped on their ticket across the Oresund Bridge? Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #5 with Nova and Olympia ( The Novympia Channel on YouTube ). Slovenia : Veronika, by Raiven. Armenia : Jako, by Ladaniva. Portugal : Grito, by Iolanda. Norway : Ulveham, by Gåte. Lithuania : Luktelk, by Silvester Belt. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #5 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, April 23, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Eurovision Technical Director Ola Melzig
Eurovision Technical Director Ola Melzig has worked on the Song Contest since Stockholm 2000, from renting out a few lights to creating award-winning stages and emotional moments unsurpassed in the industry. He is in charge of the Contest’s various ‘show’ elements. He puts into practice the vision of the Eurovision stage with decades of experience in lighting and set design on the grandest of canvases. The Contest has played a huge part in developing his professional career, helping him move away from the Rock and Roll Stadium tours of old and becoming one of the most respected names in his industry. How did he get started in this career, how has Eurovision changed, and what can we expect in Malmö? We caught up with him in his rather hectic production office behind the scenes at the Malmö Arena to find out. Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Eurovision Technical Director Ola Melzig M&M’s Ola Melzig sits down with Ewan Spence to talk about his role as Technical Director for Malmö 2024, deciding on and designing the impossible stages of Eurovision, and how he joined the Eurovision world… Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Eurovision Technical Director Ola Melzig appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, April 16, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #4
It’s a six-song special for this week’s Juke Box Jury as a half-dozen musical moments heading to Malmö stop off to find out if they’ll get a hit, a miss, or a maybe. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #4 with Fin Ross Russell ( Island Life Productions ) and Lucy Percy ( @JeMappelelPercy ). Iceland : Scared of Heights, by Hera Björk. Germany : Always On The Run, by Isaak. Malta : Loop, by Sarah Bonnici. United Kingdom : Dizzy, by Olly Alexander. Luxembourg : Fighter, by Tali. Finland : No Rules, by Windows95man. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #4 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, April 09, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #3
Our third set of songs looking to pick up a “hit” has arrived in the Juke Box Jury offices. Let’s discuss the songs, the chances, the music, the memes, and more, in our latest episode. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #3 with Samantha Ross ( 12 Points From America ) and Matthew Ker ( Majiker ). Denmark : Sand, by Sana. Czechia : Pedestal, by Aiko. Azerbaijan : Özünlə apar, by Fahree. Croatia : Rim Tim Tagi Dim, by Baby Lasagna. Poland : The Tower, by Luna. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #3 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, April 05, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Making Malmö 2024 Sustainable
You don’t get long to prepare to host the Eurovision Song Contest. Once you allow time for the bidding process at one end and the time needed to start construction and rehearsals at the other, you have a handful of months to not only put on the TV show but also to sort out the Host City and build on the success of previous years. The latter is the challenge facing Malmö. The organisers hope to make a difference in sustainable practices by ensuring Malmö 2024 and its activities are certified as a sustainable event. Not only does this benefit Eurovision 2024, it is experience that can be passed on to the 2025 Host City and broadcaster. While the whole Contest cannot be made one hundred percent sustainable overnight, Malmö can guide future Contests. How will this be achieved, what will it take, and what can visitors to Malmö expect to see? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Making Malmö 2024 Sustainable Malmö’s Karin Karlsson sits down with Ewan Spence to talk about Malmö’s plans to make a sustainable Eurovision Song Contest. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Making Malmö 2024 Sustainable appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, April 02, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #2
We carry on looking at the sogs heading to Malmö for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. They all might be fighting for the hits, misses, and maybes, but the journey is just as important as the result. Come join us now… Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #2 with Dude Points ( dudepoints.fun ) and Fin Ross Russell ( Island Life Productions ). Albania : Titan, by Besa. Ukraine : Teresa & Maria, Alyona Alyona and Jerry Heil. Spain : Zorra, by Nebulossa. San Marino : 11:11, by Megara. Italy : La Noia, by Angelina Mango. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #2 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, March 28, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Malmö's Challenge Of Performing In The Round
There are several innovations in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest, but one of the biggest on-screen will be the stage. No longer anchored to the auditorium’s rear, the stage’s full behemoth is being brought into the middle of Malmö Arena. With the audience on all sides and cameras capturing a 360-degree view, this year’s artists will be the first to sing at a Contest where the performers are “in the round.” But what does it mean to perform in the round? We approached Paul Robinson, the Artistic Director of the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough . The theatre company was the first in Britain to perform ‘in the round, championing a new wave of theatre presentations. What impact does working in the round have on both the actors and the audience? Where can you take the acting process when you know not everyone will see it? And how could it change what we see on-screen in May at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Malmö’s Challenge Of Performing In The Round Fin Ross Russell sits down with Paul Robinson, Artistic Director of the Stephen Joseph Theatre in Scarborough. They discuss audience-performer connections, the difference between TV and theatre and what exactly “in the round” actually means. We’d like to thank the Press Team at Scarborough Theater for their help in setting up this interview. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Malmö’s Challenge Of Performing In The Round appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, March 25, 2024
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #1
The National Final season is behind us, Malmö is ahead of us, and in the quiet space between lies Juke Box Jury. Yes, the run is starting slightly later than previous years, but everything else stays the same. We’ll talk about all the songs over seven shows, and when we have all our hits, misses, and maybes, it’ll be time to start taking in the rehearsals! Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury #1 with AJ Clay ( Lockdown Transmission ) and Phil Dore ( Eurovision Wars ). Greece : Zari, by Marina Satti. Cyprus : Liar, by Silia Kapsis . Moldova : In the Middle, by Natalia Barbu. Belgium : Before the Party’s Over, by Mustii. Estonia : (Nendest) narkootikumidest ei tea me (küll) midagi, by 5miinust and Puuluup. Stay up to date with all the discussions, news, and reviews as we get ready to travel to Malmö for Eurovision 2024 with ESC Insight. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here ., and you can support us on Patreon here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Juke Box Jury 2024 #1 appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, March 20, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Volunteering At Malmö's Eurovision
Like many major events, the Eurovision Song Contest has a large pool of volunteers to help host it. As ambassadors for Malmö, they can contribute to the event and experience Eurovision from behind the scenes. That could involve guiding guests around town, helping dress the city for tourists, being attached to a delegation to support their time in Malmö, and countless other roles. Johan Rönning is Eurovision 2024’s Volunteer Manager, helping recruit , coordinate, and train the volunteers for Eurovision’s arrival in May . On a recent trip to Malmö, he talked to ESC Insight’s Ewan Spence about this key part of the Song Contest. Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Eurovision Volunteer Manager Johan Rönning Johan Rönning sits down with Ewan Spence to talk about volunteering at the Eurovision Song Contest, why they are an important part of the event, the difference Eurovision will make to Malmö, and more… This interview was recorded in late January, 2024 . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Volunteering At Malmö’s Eurovision appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, March 14, 2024
https://archive.org/download/escinsight_news_podcasts_2024/escinsight_20240314_977.mp3
As the Heads of Delegation Meeting passes, the submissions from our broadcasters are in, and we have a locked-in list of music for Malmö in 2024. We’ve got a few more rules as well as anew venue if you can’t make it into the arena. Let’s head into the Eurovision world… Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Vote Early, Vote Often The final results are in, the playlist is complete, the big screen awaits, and more…. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Vote Early, Vote Often appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, March 11, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Discussing Malmö's Eurovision Changes
With today’s news about the format of the Semi Finals and the Grand Final of the Eurovision Song Contest, Ben Robertson and Ewan Spence talk about the key points and how they will impact the performers, the production team, and the public. Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Discussing Malmö’s Eurovision Changes Voting from the first Grand Final Song, the automatic qualifiers perform live in the Semi Finals, the Rest Of The World gets more time to vote, and more, all discussed over a coffee. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Discussing Malmö’s Eurovision Changes appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, March 11, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Eurovision Reference Group Chair Bakel Walden
The Eurovision Song Contest’s Reference Group guides the Contest, overseeing its development and format, financing, brand awareness, and, of course, the Contest alongside the host broadcaster and the core team at the EBU. In 2023, Dr Frank-Dieter Freiling retired as Chair after thirteen years, and Bakel Walden was voted to take his place at the head of the Reference Group . With two decades of experience in broadcasting, he is currently the Director of Development and Offering at Swiss EBU Member SSR SRG. The Reference Group is one of the less visible parts of the management of the Song Contest, but one that has a significant say in the course of our Contest. On a recent trip to Malmö, Ewan Spence sat down with Bakel to talk about the role of the Reference Group, his television career, and how he sees Eurovision evolving over the next few years. Bakel Walden (l), Ewan Spence (photo: ESC Insight, Ben Robertson) Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Eurovision Reference Group Chair Bakel Walden Bakel Walden, Chair of the Eurovision Song Contest Reference Group, sits down with Ewan Spence to talk about the role of the Reference Group, his career in Television, his hopes for the Song Contest, and more… This interview was recorded in late January, 2024 . Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll
Thu, March 07, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Aftonbladet's Tobbe Ek
Looking around any Eurovision Song Contest press centre in the last two decades, you’ll likely spot a baseball hat with the word “Boy” written in comically large letters. Under that hat is Aftonbladet journalist Tobbe Ek. A graduate of Stockholm University, he joined Aftonbladet in 2005. While he is now known for his entertainment reporting, many more roles, desks, and assignments led him to Melodifestivalen and Eurovision. The business of journalism has evolved since Ek left the University and continues to do so. From running Aftonbladet’s first blog to putting content behind paywalls, Ek has been at the cutting edge of experimentation while bringing a lightness of touch the public has grown to love. What does it take to thrive in this role? How does a background in acting and criminology help when covering the Contest? And what can the community websites learn from a tenured writer at Sweden’s largest tabloid? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Aftonbladet’s Tobbe Ek Aftonbladet’s self-proclaimed Boy, Tobbe Ek, sits down with Ewan Spence to talk about covering Melodifestivalen and Eurovision for a living, how he started out on his rewarding journalistic career, why he never became an actor, and more… Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, with Aftonbladet’s Tobbe Ek appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, February 29, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: One Final To The Tune Of Another
This week feels like it is more about the internal selections rather than the National Finals, with just two songs from the latter and rather a lot more from the former. Let’s round them all up in this week’s NewsPod. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: One Final To The Tune Of Another Someone tries to sing for San Marino, someone tries to sing for Spain, someone tries to sing the same song twice, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: One Final To The Tune Of Another appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, February 22, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Streets, Villages, And Clubs
We’ve had our Super Saturday of song selections (and a pair of internal selections released their songs), which means the playlist for May has nearly doubled since our last pod. Let’s check in on all this week’s happenings: Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Streets, Villages, And Clubs Postcards, planes, and the places to be in Malmö, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Streets, Villages, And Clubs appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, February 20, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, BBC R&D's Dave Marston And Eurovision's Next Generation Audio
We talk a lot about the songs of the Eurovision Song Contest here, we look at how the Song Contest allows cultures to be shared, and how the Contest is used as a live environment for testing new broadcast technologies. It’s the latter that’s the subject of today’s Chat Over Coffee podcast. Liverpool’s hosting of the Eurovision Song Contest was a golden opportunity for the BBC’s Research and Development team to use the live environment for one of their many projects. How does an R&D team actually use the Song Contest? Earlier this year, I sat down with Dave Marston from the BBC’s Research and Development to talk about one project. The team has been working on Next Generation Audio, which allows more interaction and personalisation of the audio presentation . This involves attaching metadata to as many of the files in the soundscape as possible… something that is easy to do on a pre-recorded show, less so for a live broadcast. Which is where Eurovision comes in. How was the decision to use the Song Contest made, what facilities were needed, and how is the project still making a difference? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, BBC R&D’s Dave Marston And Eurovision’s Next Generation Audio From immersive audio and standardised formats, through collecting the raw audio in Liverpool, to and having a ‘Eurovision Song Contest Simulator’ to test new techniques, Liverpool 2023 was a unique moment to test Next Generation Audio techniques. Ewan Spence sits down with BBC R&D’s Dave Marston to talk about using the Song Contest as a platform to trial new broadcast techniques. <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" aria-describedby="caption-attachment-220351" class="wp-image-220351 size-custom-640x360" src="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-640x360.jpg" alt="BBC R&D;s L-ISA Interface running with the Eurovision audio data (Image: BBC)" width="640" height="360" srcset="https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-640x360.jpg 640w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-300x169.jpg 300w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-768x432.jpg 768w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-444x250.jpg 444w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-600x338.jpg 600w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa-450x253.jpg 450w, https://escinsight.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/post_image_bbc_next_generation_audio_l_isa.jpg 960w" sizes="(max-width: 640px) 100vw, 640p
Wed, February 14, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Travolta's Moment
It’s all about the song selections this week. Internal selections are working on their release dates, heats are ending, and National Finals are making the ultimate choice ahead of the Eurovision Song Contest. Let’s see what’s been going on across the continent: Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Travolta’s Moment John Travolta isn’t coming back to Sanremo, Microsoft is supporting UMK, The Roop is looking to return to the Contest, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Travolta’s Moment appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, February 07, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cracking The Cryptic Clues
The team is back from Malmö – don’t worry, we’ll go back in May – and there are a lot of results to catch up on; along with some interesting decisions by both the BBC and Liverpool on their plans for Eurovision 2024. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cracking The Cryptic Clues Our hoped-for hosts arrive, the BBC serves up some cryptic clues, and Norwegian televote split continues the voting discussion, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cracking The Cryptic Clues appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, January 30, 2024
Interviews From The Eurovision 2024 Semi Final Draw
Interviews From The Eurovision 2024 Semi Final Draw Ewan Spence and Ben Robertson attended the Semi Final draw for Eurovision 2024 ; here, they talk over the details and importance of the result before talking to Steve Rotheram (Metro Mayor of the Liverpool City Region), Ebba Adielsson (Eurovision Exec Producer), and Christer Bjorkman, (Eurovision Contest Producer). Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Interviews From The Eurovision 2024 Semi Final Draw appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, January 29, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Everyone's Off To Malmö!
Delegations are about to find out when they need to book their hotels—it’s the Semi Final Draw week! Before we get into this busy week, let’s talk about what happened in the last busy week. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Everyone’s Off To Malmö! Bambie Thug says hello, Romania says goodbye, and some of us are off to Malmö. all that and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Everyone’s Off To Malmö! appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, January 26, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Design Director Sidney Lim On Eurovision's Visual Identity
Every Eurovision Song Contest has a different look (and for a time, a different slogan…). Eurovision 2024 is no different. From badges and pens, to stickers and socks, through billboards and stadium wraparounds, and beyond, designing for the Song Contest is a huge challenge that continues right up until broadcast. Which is why, after the announcement of 2024’s visual identity , we caught up with Bold Scandinavia’s Sidney Lim , one of the Design Directors behind the process, to have a chat over coffee on all things theme. Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Design Director Sidney Lim On Eurovision’s Visual Identity Malmö 2024 will be bathed in the Eurovision Lights. Bold Scandinavia is behind the visual theme of our Contest this year. How did they decide on this look, what happened during the pitching process, and what happens next? Ewan Spence sits down with Design Director Sidney Lim to find out what lies behind the clean and simple building blocks of the Contest. Discover more about the Eurovision Song Contest ahead of May’s show by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, Design Director Sidney Lim On Eurovision’s Visual Identity appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, January 23, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: More Songs, More Results, More Eurovision
With more results coming in from across the continent, internally selected artists releasing their songs, and more potential songs being released, there’s a lot of Eurovision to get through from the last seven days. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: More Songs, More Results, More Eurovision Finland takes Sweden, the United Kingdom takes the draw, Ukraine calls on Verka, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: More Songs, More Results, More Eurovision appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, January 16, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Gladiator Is Ready
We’ve had a few selections in the last month or two, but the torrent is here. Weekends packed full of songs, results, qualifiers, and victors. Let’s get busy. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Gladiator Is Ready Our first big wave of national selection results, two new names for Malmo, someone decided to let Russell Crowe join in…, and more! Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Gladiator Is Ready appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, January 12, 2024
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Norway's Head of Delegation Stig Karlsen
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Norway’s Head of Delegation Stig Karlsen Following a run of success at Eurovision, will 2024 be Norway’s year? Ewan Spence sits down with Stig Karlsen, NRK’s Head of Delegation, to talk about Norway at the Song Contest. How much of a surprise was Alessandra’s worldwide success? Was it a difficult decision to invite Keiino and Margaret Berger back to MGP? Why is the public getting more say in the final decision? All that and more in our latest Chat over Coffee interview podcast. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Norway’s Head of Delegation Stig Karlsen appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, January 05, 2024
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cruise Control
As the calendar ticks over 2024 we have new names to search for, new songs to listen to, and new dates for our diaries. What have we got for the weekend. Let’s find out… Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cruise Control Norway’s returning meme, the new stage is seen, a UK artist is very keen, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Cruise Control appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, December 22, 2023
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Dansk Melodi Grand Prix's Erik Struve Hansen
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Dansk Melodi Grand Prix’s Erik Struve Hansen Once the holidays are over, the Eurovision Song Contest National Finals step up a gear. One of those will be Dansk Melodi Grand Prix, DR’s selection show for Denmark’s entry to Malmö 2024. Ewan Spence sat down with Erik Struve Hansen to talk about his love of Eurovision, the need to change Melodi Grand Prix, and the changing face of music at the Song Contest. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee, With Dansk Melodi Grand Prix’s Erik Struve Hansen appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, December 15, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Malmo Will Look Lovely In Pastels
We have the 37 broadcasters and countries entered into Eurovision 2024 (and one asterisk) but what else has been happening in the Song Contest world? Let’s find out… Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Malmo Will Look Lovely In Pastels Who’s going to Eurovision, what is it going to look like, where it will be, and more… Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Malmo Will Look Lovely In Pastels appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, December 08, 2023
ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Revolutions
The first season of Phil Dore’s Eurovision Wars comes to an end with talk of revolution in the air. Samantha Ross joins Phil to talk about not just Portugal but also Belarus’ pro-democracy protests and Ukraine’s Orange and Euromaidan Revolutions, as well as the Eurovision acts who got involved. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Revolutions You may have heard the story of how the Portuguese Revolution of 1974 used their Eurovision entry as a signal to start overthrowing the government. But are there other examples of Eurovision artists involved in revolutions? The answer turned out to be—more often than you might think. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in October 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, with guest Samantha Ross. Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the years by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Revolutions appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, December 05, 2023
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Talking About Eurovision's 2024 Entry List
The EBU has announced the 37 broadcasters confirmed for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, with one more still in negotiations. What do we make of the list, who’s in and out, and what should we all watch out for as we head to Malmö? Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Talking About Eurovision’s 2024 Entry List Ben Robertson and Samantha Ross join Ewan Spence to talk about the 37 broadcasters confirmed for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Talking About Eurovision’s 2024 Entry List appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, December 01, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Our Italian Chaos Gremlin Returns
Junior Eurovision is over for another year, but the Eurovision Song Contest season keeps moving forward. National Finals are on the way next week, we’re expecting a lot of performers to be announced for selections, and we’re learning more about the shows that will entertain us through early 2024. Let’s see where we stand with everything Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Our Italian Chaos Gremlin Returns The Junior Eurovision trophy returns to France, nobody is returning to Melodifestivalen, our Italian chaos Gremlin returns to Sanremo, and more… Podcast mentions… The Official Eurovision Podcast , London Eurovision Party . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show on iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter, which you can sign up for here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Our Italian Chaos Gremlin Returns appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, November 27, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Monday 27th November
Ahead of the Junior Eurovision Grand Final, the ESC Insight team (and some friends of the parish) sit down after the dress rehearsal to talk about the songs and stagings you can enjoy on Sunday’s live show. Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Monday 27th November Junior Eurovision is over for another year, and once more the ESC Insight podcast gathers to talk about another French victory, the strong performances from Spain, Armenia, and the UK, and what happens next for Junior. With Ben Robertson are Thomas Duseaux ( France 12 points podcast ), GJ Kooijman ( @eurovisionpod ), and Adrian Bradley ( @adebradley ). Junior is over, but the Song Contest season continues. Stay up to date with all the discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Monday 27th November appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sat, November 25, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Saturday 25th November
Ahead of the Junior Eurovision Grand Final, the ESC Insight team (and some friends of the parish) sit down after the dress rehearsal to talk about the songs and stagings you can enjoy on Sunday’s live show. Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Saturday 25th November Ben Robertson is joined by Tomas Davitt ( Eurovision Tom ), Melanie Otto ( ESC United ) and Joe Bleasdale ( ESC Bubble ), with their impressions of the first dress rehearsal, staging surprises, and trying to call the winner. With the show rehearsals finished, stay up to date with all the Junior Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Saturday 25th November appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, November 23, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Thursday 23rd November
The wonder of the Junior Eurovision Song Contest has arrived in Nice. Joining the Contest are Ben Robertson and the ESC Insight team. Yes for one week we’re back into the hustle and bustle of three-minute songs and everything around them. In today’s podcast, Ben is joined by some friends of the parish to set the scene. Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Thursday 23rd November Ben Robertson is joined by Max Doughty ( That Eurovision Site ), Tim Jumawan ( That Eurovision Site ), Daniel Stridh ( ESC Discord ), and Neil Farren ( Eurovoix ) to preview Junior Eurovision, talk about their expectations, the hopes for the Contest, and some early predictions… With the show rehearsals underway, stay up to date with all the Junior Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: News From Nice, Thursday 23rd November appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, November 16, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Forever And Ever And Ever
With Junior Eurovision one week away everyone is travelling to Nice. That includes ESC Insight so you can expect lots of coverage of the Contest ahead of the Grand Final on November 26th. Yet the Eurovision world has been busy with more news (and songs) from across the continent. Let’s catch up on what’s been happening. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Forever And Ever And Ever Eurovision has a forever slogan, lots of National Selection tickets are going on sale, France gives us our first song, and more… Podcast mentions… ESC250 . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Forever And Ever And Ever… appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, November 10, 2023
ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Azerbaijan vs Armenia
Phil Dore’s Eurovision Wars continues with a look at Armenia and Azerbaijan at our Contest. Originally a Spotify exclusive we are delighted to present the series Wars to a wider audience over the next weeks and months. Join Phil as he discusses the Eurovision Song Contest’s role as a lens on society, and none more so when issues of war, dissent, and politics come to the fore. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Azerbaijan vs Armenia Dr Paul Jordan (aka Dr Eurovision) joins Phil Dore to talk about the long-running feud between Armenia and Azerbaijan at the Eurovision Song Contest. Along the way they discuss the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict, the Armenian Genocide, and the controversial hosting of Eurovision 2012 in Baku. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in August 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, with guest Dr Paul Jordan. Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the years by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Azerbaijan vs Armenia appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, November 03, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Schrödinger’s Song Contest
Malta has kicked off the televised National Selection season (even if it’s going to take a month to see the results), while we have our second name for Malmö 2024 thanks to Greece. Throw in some dates, some negotiations, and a dash of Kosovan lyrics… and you have the latest podcast with all the Eurovision news. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Schrödinger’s Song Contest Liverpool is in the green, there’s a new party for the Nordics, Estonia welcomes an Italian, and more… Podcast mentions… Liverpool Economic Impact studies , Eirevision Podcast , Noridc Eurovision Party . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Schrödinger’s Song Contest appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, October 27, 2023
ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: The Banned Song Contest
We continue to showcase Phil Dore’s Eurovision Wars – originally a Spotify exclusive we are delighted to present Eurovision Wars to a wider audience over the next weeks and months. Join Phil as he discusses the Eurovision Song Contest’s role as a lens on society, and none more so when issues of war, dissent, and politics come to the fore. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: The Banned Song Contest Talking about the banned songs of the Eurovision Song Contest leads into discussions of the Russian invasion of Georgia, the 2020/21 pro-democracy protests in Belarus, and the 2015 Colectiv fire in Romania. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in September 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, with guest Samantha Ross. Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the years by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: The Banned Song Contest appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, October 20, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Loving The Long Lists
We might have already seen the name of our Eurovision winner. With artist announcements from the Maltese and Albanian broadcasters, we can start to explore the performers ahead of hearing our first Eurovision tunes in a little less than a week’s time. But that’s not all that’s been going on in the Eurovision world. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Loving The Long Lists Dates for Albania’s Festivali i Kenges, tickets for Sweden’s Melodifestivalen, a nice longest from Malta, and more… Podcast mentions… Junior Eurovision volunteering, Liverpool Calling , Eurovision in Concert . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Loving The Long Lists appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, October 13, 2023
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2021-2022)
The Eurovision Song Contest cannot help but be a lens on society, and none more so when issues of war, dissent, and politics come to the fore. In 2022, Eurovision Wars was a Spotify exclusive; we are proud to welcome Phil Dore to the ESC Insight team, and we are delighted to present Eurovision Wars to a wider audience over the next weeks and months. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2021-2022) For the final part of the Russia vs Ukraine story, we talk about the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and the impact it had on the Eurovision Song Contest. Expect themes of violence which some listeners may find disturbing. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in July 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, with guest Erik Nelson. Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the year by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2021-2022) appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, October 06, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who Wants A Deadline?
In a week where the Junior Eurovision playlist is filling up, some broadcasters are extending their deadlines to get more songs in while others have sold out their rather large arenas in a single morning. Everyone’s going to make it to Malmö, right? Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who Wants A Deadline? Finland’s National Final is sold out, Ireland and Germany need a bit more time, France has some wings in the wings, and more… Podcast mentions… The 400 Point Club , Liverpool Calling , Eurovision in Concert , EuroTrip . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season continues by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Who Wants A Deadline? appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, September 29, 2023
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine, Part Two
The Eurovision Song Contest cannot help but be a lens on society, and none more so when issues of war, dissent, and politics come to the fore. In 2022, Eurovision Wars was a Spotify exclusive; we are proud to welcome Phil Dore to the ESC Insight team, and we are delighted to present Eurovision Wars to a wider audience over the next weeks and months. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2017-2021) This is the second part of a three-part look at the geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine through the lens of the Eurovision Song Contest. Phil Dore picks up the story in 2017 when the Contest moved to Kyiv. Both Russia in 2017 and Ukraine in 2019 managed to kick themselves out of the Contest before the show even begins. Sergei Lazarev returns, and in 2021 Russia sends a surprisingly progressive artist with a feminist anthem. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in July 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, guests with Dr Jamie Halliwell and Julie Hasseris . Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the year by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2017-2021) appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, September 22, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Paperwork Is In
There are a lot of dates in this week’s pod, from submission deadlines and National Final performances, through Danish events, to Swedish parties. All that and a familiar face returns to the Contest. Let’s dive into the news. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Paperwork Is In We discuss the broadcasters who are in, thinking about attending, or have decided that 2024 is not their year. All that and more in the latest news podcast… Podcast mentions… Liverpool Calling , Eurovision in Concert , Copenhagen Eurovision Party . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season gets underway by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Paperwork Is In appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, September 15, 2023
ESC Insight Presets... Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine, Part One
Please welcome Phil Dore to the ESC Insight extended universe, as he brings the Eurovision Wars podcast to the feed. Eurovision Wars is not a new series. During 2022 it was a Spotify exclusive, but we are proud to welcome Phil Dore to the ESC Insight team, and we are delighted to present Eurovision Wars to a wider audience over the next weeks and months. ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine, Part One This is the first of a three-parter looking at how geopolitical tensions between Russia and Ukraine spilled over into the Eurovision Song Contest. Part 1 runs from 2014 to 2016. Expect to hear about an anthem to genocide, a peace song performed by a hardcore Putin supporter, and of course, a giant hamster wheel. This episode of Eurovision Wars was originally broadcast in July 2022. It is hosted by Phil Dore, guests with Dr Jamie Halliwell and Julie Hasseris . The ESC Insight Extended Universe?? We’re blaming Sam Ross for that label, but it has stuck in our editorial office, so there we go. We’ve always hoped to be a wide church of content, so it does fit. Unfortunatly… But if you want to see if you can be a part of Insight, read more here . Join our exploration of the Eurovision Song Contest throughout the year by subscribing to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available , and you can subscribe to Eurovision Wars through this RSS Feed . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post ESC Insight Presets… Eurovision Wars: Russia vs Ukraine (2014-2016) appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, September 08, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Closing And Opening Windows Of Submissions
No matter the exact date, the Eurovision Song Contest season is underway. Most broadcasters are looking for their songs and artists and are open to submissions. some have enough choice already and the chance to enter is gone. Others are still playing musical cards close to the table. It might be months away, but there’s a lot going on. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Closing And Opening Windows Of Submissions We discuss the new season, welcome Estonia to Junior Eurovision, ask why Mustii is a great pick for the Song Contest. and more… Podcast mentions… Nul Points . You can follow the ESC Insight podcast, along with some other surprises we’re planning, on YouTube. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season gets under way by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Closing And Opening Windows Of Submissions appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, September 01, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: A Few Things Need To Be Said
September 1st means the new Eurovision season is upon us. And that means a chance for reflections of Eurovisions past, and hopes for Eurovisions to come. No news this week, no debate, no interview, just a microphone and a monologue. Eurovision Insight Podcast: A Few Things Need To Be Said A welcoming community, accepting change, and finding songs to love. Ewan Spence talks about his hopes for the upcoming musical journey to Malmo and the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. You can follow the ESC Insight podcast, along with some other surprises we’re planning, on YouTube. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the season begins, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: A Few Things Need To Be Said appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, August 25, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: All Our Alloras
The Eurovision Song Contest is a rich tapestry of music and memories. We are always looking backwards and forwards as we enjoy the Contest, especially today as we remember Toto Cutugno and Patricia Bredin while watching the pieces for Malmō 2024 come together. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: All Our Alloras The annual look at Ireland’s budget, some promising schedule news for the United Kingdom, and we remember two legends of the Song Contest. Podcast mentions… PrePartyES . You can follow the ESC Insight podcast, along with some other surprises we’re planning, on YouTube. Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: All Our Alloras appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, August 11, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Serene Spectacular Awaits
We’re up to 26 confirmed countries for the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö, but what else has been happening in the Song Contest world? And what of Junior Eurovision? Let’s find out. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Serene Spectacular Awaits The return of the Serene Spectacle, the TaP is turned off in the UK, Portugal discovers Sweden, and more… Podcast mentions… Lego Eurovision , EuroTrip Podcast . Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Serene Spectacular Awaits appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, July 28, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: When Can We Go To Benidorm?
We have 23 broadcasters confirmed for Malmö and Eurovision 2024, 15 for Nice and Junior Eurovision 2023, and what would happen if the jury only had thirty percent of the final score at the Song Contest. Let’s catch up on those discussions and more from the last two weeks… Eurovision Insight News Podcast: When Can We Go To Benidorm? What changing the jury percentage would mean, more broadcasters confirmed for Malmö 2024, and we have dates for Benidorm Fest! Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: When Can We Go To Benidorm? appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, July 14, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Italian Marathon
Now the dust has settled on our host city for 2024, we can look around at the rest of the Eurovision world to check on what’s been going on since we booked our Swedish hotels. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Italian Marathon Why we’re off to Malmö, Sanremo dates confirmed, and the big ticket National Final for 2024 could be Luxembourg. Looking for more? Maro’s Tiny Desk concert for NPR . You can also listen to the podcast on YouTube… Stay up to date on Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: The Italian Marathon appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, July 07, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: We’re Off To Malmö
This afternoon SVT and the EBU announced that the Eurovision Song Contest 2024 will be hosted in Malmö. From the press release : “ Malmö’s commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and innovation aligns perfectly with the spirit of the competition. Furthermore, its compact size and well-developed transport infrastructure means everyone involved in the Contest, including delegations, media, and fans will be able to navigate the city easily. Its commitment to sustainability and green initiatives also aligns perfectly with our own values, making it an ideal Host City for the 68th Eurovision Song Contest. “ Now we know where we are going, let’s sit down over our traditional coffee, to talk about our home for the Semi Finals on May 7th and 9th, and the Grand Final on Saturday May 11th. Eurovision Insight Podcast: We’re Off To Malmö Samantha Ross and Ben Robertson join Ewan Spence to talk about out host city for Eurovision 2024. Why are we going to Malmö, what will it bring to the Contest, and what are we hoping for? Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: We’re Off To Malmö appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, June 30, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Taylor’s Version
The summer is always a quiet time for the Song Contest, but planning doesn’t stop, either for our hosts SVT in Sweden or the various broadcasters across the continent. Let’s catch up on what’s going on. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Taylor’s Version Looking back at the impact of Eurovision, two more Swedish songs, and SVT prepares for a shorter Contest. Looking for more? Eurovision Ukraine on working with BBC (and Eurovoix’s summary ), Eurovision Brand Impact Report , and Barcelona Eurovision Party . Stay up to date on Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as the summer continues, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: Taylor’s Version appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, June 16, 2023
Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Summer Of Swedish Planning
The summer stretches before us, but that doesn’t mean we have to be without the Eurovision Song Contest. It may not be as packed with news as May, but there’s a lot to reflect on and a lot to look forward to. You’ve read our deep dives, now let’s talk about the state of play today. Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Summer Of Swedish Planning Liverpool is behind us, Nice is in front of us, and Sweden awaits next year. Looking for more? The EuroTrip Podcast , Eurovoix Predictions , EuroVersey , and Second Cherry . Stay up to date on Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions as Liverpool draws closer, by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight News Podcast: A Summer Of Swedish Planning appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, May 26, 2023
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Ukrainian Journalist Maria Romanenko
Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Ukrainian Journalist Maria Romanenko Kyiv journalist Maria Romanenko settled in the UK after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and started volunteering to organise tours around Manchester. With Liverpool hosting Eurovision 2023, she organised tours around the Song Contest’s new home for visiting Ukrainians. Ewan Spence sat down with Maria to listen to her story, the impact of her walking tours on those who have settled in the UK, and the importance of this year’s Eurovision Song Contest to Ukrainians. You can find Maria online at her website www.mariaromanenko.com , and on Twitter @rommari . Liverpool Walking Tour (photo: Maria Romanenko) Stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions throughout the summer with the ESC Insight podcast. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Chat Over Coffee: Ukrainian Journalist Maria Romanenko appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sun, May 14, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final Daily Podcast From Liverpool, Sunday 14th May
That was the Eurovision that was. As always, so many points have been brought up by the Contest to discuss over the summer. Before that, its time for our traditional epilogue podcast recorded as the team leaves the host city behind and heads back to what some call ‘real life’. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final Daily Pod From Liverpool, Sunday 14th May Fin Ross Russell is joined by the O.G. Insight podcast crew of Ewan Spence and Sharleen Wright to try and sum up Liverpool, a few of the songs, and what made Eurovision 2023 one of the best. As the quiet Eurovision summer stretches out before us, we’re not going away. You can stay in touch with the Song Contest by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Our Final Daily Podcast From Liverpool, Sunday 14th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Sat, May 13, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Saturday 13th May
It’s Eurovision day!!! Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Saturday 13th May Fin Ross Russell is joined by John Lucas and Ben Robertson to preview the 2023 Eurovision Grand Final. They catch up on the big 5 and Ukraine, dissect the minutiae of the running order and predict a winner before Fin visits the ‘Dialogues’ exhibition at Bluecoat Arts Centre. Today is the day! But Eurovision goes on all year round. Stay on top of all the discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Saturday 13th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Fri, May 12, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Friday 12th May
The second Semi Final saw the last ten slots in the Grand Final earned by our performers. Let’s do a quick review of Thursday’s show before looking ahead to the big night. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Friday 12th May Fin Ross Russell hosts an all-American Insight takeover as Samantha Ross and Derek Sillerud review this year’s Second Semi Final. They discuss Belgium’s top 10 prospects, Cypriot musical variety and Austria’s long-awaited return to Saturday night before Fin visits the ‘Sound of Freedom’ installation at Tempest Hey. The Grand Final almost here, stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Friday 12th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Thu, May 11, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Thursday 11th May
…and we do it all again! What was one the jury show (and still is, but the jury are a backup) is over and we can preview the second Semi Final in all its glory! Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Thursday 11th May Fin Ross Russell is joined by Eurovision Bulgaria’s Madlen Tutelian to preview Semi Final 2. They talk about Icelandic energy, Cypriot fire and neighbourly voting before Fin explores the Protect the Beats installation at Exchange Flags. With the second Semi Finals tonight, and the Grand Final almost here, stay on top of all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Thursday 11th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Wed, May 10, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Wednesday 10th May
We have our first ten qualifiers (and our first five songs to leave Liverpool, but not leave our playlists). Let’s look back at the Semi Final, and look forward at what’s to come. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Wednesday 10th May Fin Ross Russell is joined by Ross Middleton to talk through an action packed first Semi. They explore Croatia’s return to the Grand Final, Serbia’s status as contest trend-setters and Norway’s nervous moments. Fin also takes a pre-show trip to the Eurovillage to watch the English National Opera perform Eurovision covers with some special guests. With the Semi Finals under way, stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Wednesday 10th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Tue, May 09, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Tuesday 9th May
The first Semi Final’s jury rehearsal was held last night, and the first Eurovision Audience Poll was published. All that, and more, in today’s podcast from Liverpool Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Tuesday 9th May Fin Ross Russell and John Lucas sit down to preview Semi Final 1. They discuss ESC Insight’s collaboration on this year’s inaugural Eurovision Audience Poll, the participants on tonight’s show and the Soloveiko Song Bird Trail that has taken over Liverpool. With the Semi Finals under way, stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Tuesday 9th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
Mon, May 08, 2023
Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Monday 8th May
Monday night will see the Jury Rehearsal of the first Semi Final… while the vote is 100 percent televote for the Semi Finals, in the event of any issues tonight’s jury score will be the actual score. So there’s risk and reward on offer tonight, as well as the first show with a live audience. Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Monday 8th May Fin Ross Russell is joined by Ross Middleton and Samantha Ross to talk through the unique events of the last 12 months, the changes for this year’s competition and the spell-binding Izyum to Liverpool installation at Liverpool Cathedral. With the Semi Finals almost here, stay up to date with all the Eurovision discussions by listening to the ESC Insight podcasts. You’ll find the show in iTunes , Google Podcasts , and Spotify . A direct RSS feed is available . We also have a regular email newsletter which you can sign up to here . The post Eurovision Insight Podcast: Daily News From Liverpool, Monday 8th May appeared first on ESC Insight - Home of the Unofficial Eurovision Song Contest Podcast .
loading...