Jaunted

In its early days, the songs could only be sung in the native language of the nation, so it was kind of fun to hear new music. If all of this sounds a little too far-fetched to be as big as we say, you may recognize some previous contestants and winners; ABBA, Celine Dion and Katrina and The Waves.

This year, the contest was held in Azerbaijan. If you are thinking what we are thinking, yes, this really isn't Europe. However, they are member of the TV union and won last year. Thus, Eurovision 2012 in Baku. The country has plenty of bylines to entice travelers to visit; "The Land of Horses", "The Land of Abundance", "The Land of Water", and "The City of Winds".

The performances were held in a purpose built stadium called Crystal Hall and right before each country went on stage, their flag was lit up in millions of lights on the outerwalls of the circular stadium.

After a few overly quirky performances, including a group of 6 Russian grandmothers singing about cooking while in front of a rotating stone oven, we settled in. The babushkis noted their musical influences were Beyonce, Rihanna and Bach. Naturally, that makes sense.

Finally, after a 3 and half hour grand final performance, a winner was announced. Sweden takes home the award for best song and performance this year. This award comes, not only, with bragging rights, but hosting privledges next year. Yep, Eurovision 2013 will be held in Stockholm. All we have to say is; See you in Sweden next May!
here is the winning performance
Here are the Russian babushkis, because we know you're curious.

[Photo: escaustria.at]