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South Wales Argus
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- South Wales Argus
Revealed: Best British Eurovision entries of all time ranked
Cliff Richard's first Eurovision entry in 1968, 'Congratulations', and Katrina and the Waves' 'Love Shine a Light', the last Eurovision win for the UK in 1997, make up the remainder of the top five, in a study of 2,000 adults. Others to feature in the top UK Eurovision songs include Lulu with 'Boom Bang-a-Bang' from 1969, and Sonia's 'Better the Devil You Know', which finished an agonising second place in 1993. Cheryl Baker, who won Eurovision as part of Bucks Fizz's hit in 1981, said: 'That's fantastic! It's amazing it was 44 years ago that we won. 'Katrina was a lot more recent, my favourite was Sandie Shaw with Puppet on a String, and I was so excited when I got to meet her. 'Brotherhood of Man were the biggest selling of the Eurovision entries – I think they sold six million records! But it's an absolute honour and a privilege that people think of our entry as the best of British. 'There's been so many great songs which have come from the UK over the years, and it makes me so proud that people think of Bucks Fizz when they think of Eurovision.' Speaking at the WhichBingo Awards, she also lifted the lid on how the UK's entry, Remember Monday, would perform – and which nation she thinks will win Eurovision this year. Cheryl said: 'Who knows – with Eurovision, I've never picked a winning song yet. I think the girls are fantastic, and the song is really good. 'I know the bookies are only giving it a one per cent chance – but you never know. 'I love what the girls wear, it's almost theatrical, and historical in a way – it could be something from Bridgerton. 'But they're up against Sweden and they put everything in – it's not just the song and the singing, it's all in the production. 'I think they could possibly nick it, which would make them the most successful Eurovision country ever, and they'd love to take that crown – but we'll give them a good run for their money. 'It all depends on if the song's good enough – When Sam did it, his song and performance were great, and had it not been for Russia invading Ukraine, we could have won that year.' 'I'd like to think Making Your Mind Up will still be popular in another 44 years – the bit they always show on the telly is when the skirts come off, as simple as that was – it made that performance and that moment is what stuck in people's memories.' The research found the most important elements to a Eurovision-winning entry includes a catchy, memorable chorus (38 per cent), a strong hook melody you can't forget (34 per cent) and an emotional or powerful vocal performance (24 per cent). Other vital ingredients include a charismatic performer you can root for (20 per cent) and a sense of fun and chaos (19 per cent). It also emerged the UK is a Eurovision-loving nation, as 38 per cent either watch it every year or most years. And there's confidence among fans that the UK could end its 28-year wait for a Eurovision win, with 15 per cent believing Remember Monday could win. Almost a third (32 per cent) want Ed Sheeran to compete for the UK at Eurovision – ahead of Adele (29 per cent) and Harry Styles (20 per cent). WhichBingo spokesperson, Charlie Shakespeare, added: 'We're backing Remember Monday to go all the way, but how cool would it be if Ed Sheeran stepped out for Britain one year? 'As our research shows, there's a few different factors which go into a knockout Eurovision performance. If they can stick close to them, there's no reason Britain can't go all the way.' 'It's been great hosting so many stars at our awards ceremony this week. There's been a real buzz about the place with everyone chatting and having so much fun together.' TOP 10 BRIT EUROVISION ENTRIES
North Wales Chronicle
21-05-2025
- Entertainment
- North Wales Chronicle
Revealed: Best British Eurovision entries of all time ranked
Cliff Richard's first Eurovision entry in 1968, 'Congratulations', and Katrina and the Waves' 'Love Shine a Light', the last Eurovision win for the UK in 1997, make up the remainder of the top five, in a study of 2,000 adults. Others to feature in the top UK Eurovision songs include Lulu with 'Boom Bang-a-Bang' from 1969, and Sonia's 'Better the Devil You Know', which finished an agonising second place in 1993. Cheryl Baker, who won Eurovision as part of Bucks Fizz's hit in 1981, said: 'That's fantastic! It's amazing it was 44 years ago that we won. 'Katrina was a lot more recent, my favourite was Sandie Shaw with Puppet on a String, and I was so excited when I got to meet her. 'Brotherhood of Man were the biggest selling of the Eurovision entries – I think they sold six million records! But it's an absolute honour and a privilege that people think of our entry as the best of British. 'There's been so many great songs which have come from the UK over the years, and it makes me so proud that people think of Bucks Fizz when they think of Eurovision.' Speaking at the WhichBingo Awards, she also lifted the lid on how the UK's entry, Remember Monday, would perform – and which nation she thinks will win Eurovision this year. Cheryl said: 'Who knows – with Eurovision, I've never picked a winning song yet. I think the girls are fantastic, and the song is really good. 'I know the bookies are only giving it a one per cent chance – but you never know. 'I love what the girls wear, it's almost theatrical, and historical in a way – it could be something from Bridgerton. 'But they're up against Sweden and they put everything in – it's not just the song and the singing, it's all in the production. 'I think they could possibly nick it, which would make them the most successful Eurovision country ever, and they'd love to take that crown – but we'll give them a good run for their money. 'It all depends on if the song's good enough – When Sam did it, his song and performance were great, and had it not been for Russia invading Ukraine, we could have won that year.' 'I'd like to think Making Your Mind Up will still be popular in another 44 years – the bit they always show on the telly is when the skirts come off, as simple as that was – it made that performance and that moment is what stuck in people's memories.' The research found the most important elements to a Eurovision-winning entry includes a catchy, memorable chorus (38 per cent), a strong hook melody you can't forget (34 per cent) and an emotional or powerful vocal performance (24 per cent). Other vital ingredients include a charismatic performer you can root for (20 per cent) and a sense of fun and chaos (19 per cent). It also emerged the UK is a Eurovision-loving nation, as 38 per cent either watch it every year or most years. And there's confidence among fans that the UK could end its 28-year wait for a Eurovision win, with 15 per cent believing Remember Monday could win. Almost a third (32 per cent) want Ed Sheeran to compete for the UK at Eurovision – ahead of Adele (29 per cent) and Harry Styles (20 per cent). WhichBingo spokesperson, Charlie Shakespeare, added: 'We're backing Remember Monday to go all the way, but how cool would it be if Ed Sheeran stepped out for Britain one year? 'As our research shows, there's a few different factors which go into a knockout Eurovision performance. If they can stick close to them, there's no reason Britain can't go all the way.' 'It's been great hosting so many stars at our awards ceremony this week. There's been a real buzz about the place with everyone chatting and having so much fun together.' TOP 10 BRIT EUROVISION ENTRIES
Daily Mirror
17-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Mirror
'I'm Eurovision's number one fan - but I dont want UK to win'
Eurovision's number one fan Kevin Sherwin, from Aberdeen, spends a fortune on travelling across Europe to watch the show live every year and says it's worth every penny Taxi driver Kevin Sherwin claims to be Eurovision's number one fan – spending £50K travelling to destinations across Europe during the 30 years he's been watching the show live. Speaking from Basel, Switzerland, where he's watching his 26th live contest, he confesses that he hopes the UK fails to win the Saturday night final. Kevin, 63, of Aberdeen, says: 'I love going to wave the Union flag and support the UK, but it would be a terrible disappointment if we actually won – I'd miss out on my yearly holiday. It would be nice if we came second, but I'm really rooting for Iceland or Albania – I've travelled about 50,000 miles for Eurovision, but I've never been there.' Ever since he sang along to Cliff Richard singing Congratulations in 1968 when he was four, Kevin - who lives with his partner who also likes the contest but is not as big a fan - he's loved Eurovision. Longing to watch in person, only invited guests and production staff had access in the 1970s and 80s. So, in 1994, seeing an advert on Ceefax, offering tickets to see Eurovision in Dublin for £300, he snapped one up. 'It was an iconic performance to be at,' he recalls. 'I'd had to rent a dinner jacket, it was very formal, but it was the year that Riverdance performed in the interval, so I can say I was at the world premiere of that. It just blew me away, and I knew I had to keep going back. For me, Eurovision is like Christmas. There's a huge lead up to it all year, and then a few days before the contest, all the fans start to arrive – it's like seeing my Eurovision family for the holidays. 'There's such a buzz in the air and it's like being in a little cocoon – nothing can bring us down. Yes, it always costs a lot of money, but I live quite frugally the rest of the year, and Eurovision is my little splurge. It's much better than sitting on a beach somewhere." Kevin's only missed four live performances since 1994 – after being unable to get tickets between 1996 and 2000. These days, he books hotel rooms up to a year in advance - often in multiple cities - to avoid disappointment. 'When the winner is revealed, I start looking to book accommodation straight away,' he says. 'There are usually two or three possible cities that it could be held in, so I book a refundable hotel room in each of them. "This time, I made sure I had accommodation in Basel, Geneva and Zurich. You can usually work out which week the competition will be held, depending on the champions league final. But I've been known to book three hotels for three different weeks to make sure I get a spot. Sometimes this can mean getting them before the prices go up too high.' Regularly staying in the same hotels as performers, he's shared a breakfast table with many UK singers - befriending performers from around the world. 'I met Terry Wogan several times, who was a lovely man, so kind and genuine with the fans,' he says. 'I've met Graham Norton too, who is also lovely. People ask me which commentary style I prefer, but I have to tell them that I've never actually heard the commentary – I'm always at the event and I never watch it on TV. 'Most of the singers are lovely too, but there are a few who are real divas. They refuse to come down and eat with other people, and have everything ordered to their room.' And Kevin spends the rest of the year trying to spread his love for Eurovision. 'I always like to have Eurovision tunes playing in my taxi, and I try to shoehorn it into conversation,' he admits. 'I've always got a little snippet of information to share with people, and they usually love chatting about Eurovision – even if they do roll their eyes to start with. It really does bring people together, even if that's because they hate it – it's always a talking point.'
Metro
13-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Metro
I was on easyJet's Eurovision flight and it was gloriously unhinged
Walking through Gatwick Airport this week, travellers were treated to an unusual sight: crowds of people draped in sequins and sparkles, many wearing variations of the Union Jack. Scattered on the terminal floor were the remnants of orange feather boas, evidence of the celebrations that were about to kick off. For the second year running, easyJet laid on a Eurovision super-fan flight, ferrying a plane of 75 devotees to Basel, Switzerland, to the 2025 contest, which kicks off with the first semi-final on Tuesday night. The flight featured a best-dressed runway and a talent show at 35,000 feet, hosted by Drag Race UK winner Ginger Johnson. And Metro nabbed one of the coveted tickets. For many people averse to all things Eurovision, it's the stuff of nightmares. But at the departure gate, the enthusiasm is unparalleled, and our reporter Pierra Willix admits — the vibe is contagious. Before I've made it past security, I spot three friends who, in silver pants and platform boots, stand out from the usual Monday afternoon crowd. Kevin, Leigh, and Daniel from West Sussex have attended Eurovision together for the past 10 years. 'It's like a happiness drug,' Kevin says. 'You can only do well if you have the support of your competitors, so it does bring people together. It's full of positivity.' Although they dread to think how much they've spent on Eurovision jaunts over the years, they all agree it's been worth it, every time. Near duty-free, I find Kevin from Aberdeen, a Eurovision mega-fan attending his 26th contest. He says he has spent well over £50,000 for the privilege. Togged out in a Union Jack waistcoat, bowtie and top hat, Kevin has memories of watching Cliff Richard come second place in 1968 with his iconic song, Congratulations. 'I've always been obsessed with the Eurovision, always wanted to go, but for years it was so hard to get tickets. Then, in 1994, I got tickets for the shows in Dublin, where the world premiere of Riverdance took place,' he says. While almost every fan now attends in eccentric ensembles, back then, Kevin recalls the audience turning up in dinner suits. Over the years, Kevin has met Eurovision stars including Irish twins Jedward, UK commentator Graham Norton, and Bonnie Tyler, who represented the UK in 2013. Just four days ago, he secured a golden ticket to the final. He says he's most looking forward to surprises in the voting. This year, bookies have tipped Sweden, Austria, Spain, France, and Malta, but he adds: 'I always try and guess, but I've only ever picked the winner twice.' While Kevin would love to see the UK land its first win since 1997, he's actually hoping somewhere unusual wins. 'I'm running out of places to go, so hopefully somewhere like Albania could win it this year,' he laughs. Also onboard are young Eurovision fans making the pilgrimage for the first time – two are dressed as last year's winner Nemo and Estonia's 2025 entry, Tommy Cash. Mo and Jason, Irish fans living in London, said the community aspect of Eurovision has drawn them in. 'We weren't initially planning on going to Basel and don't even have tickets to any of the shows, but we just want to be in the city,' Mo says. Once onboard, Drag Race UK's Ginger Johnson gets the group ramped up by running down the aisle, high-fiving any raised hands. Over the next 90 minute,s there's a pop quiz, a runway down the aisle to crown the best dressed passenger and performances from super fans, who get the plane shrieking to I Will Survive, Mamma Mia, and It's Raining Men. With flags and paddles emblazoned with 'deux points' waving throughout the cabin, the flight erupts as Elaine, from Ireland, is crowned the winner for her Riverdance tribute. As we descend, Ginger tells Metro: 'I've performed in just about every kind of place imaginable, but doing a gig at 35,000 feet is a new one for me.' It sounds trite, but looking around the cabin, everyone seems genuinely thrilled. More Trending The cabin crew, many lovers of Eurovision themselves, get involved in the festivities, with a surprise appearance by Airline star Jane Boulton. Arriving in Basel, the group is fizzing with excitement. It's the first time I've ever clapped for a landing. As we landed in Basel, us passengers couldn't help but feel sad that the journey was over. But after the most unique flight I've ever been on, I knew the fun was only just beginning. The Eurovision Song Contest takes place from Tuesday May 13 to Saturday May 17. Pierra Willix was a guest of easyJet. Got a story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@ calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page – we'd love to hear from you. View More » MORE: When is the second Eurovision semi-final and can you vote in it? MORE: I've been to 89 countries — these are the 7 best places for solo travellers MORE: Eurovision bosses can't tame the 'political beast' of the competition
Yahoo
19-04-2025
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Post Malone reportedly filed custody papers days before his ex-fiancée did
Post Malone reportedly filed for custody of his two-year-old daughter days before his ex-fiancée, Hee Sung 'Jamie' Park, did. The 29-year-old 'Sunflower' singer submitted his paperwork in Utah on April 14, while Park's petition was filed in Los Angeles Superior Court on April 16, according to documents obtained by TMZ and Page Six. Park filed for sole physical custody and joint legal custody of the child, who is only referred to by the initials DDP. It's not known exactly what Malone, born Austin Post, asked for. The two outlets reported Malone, born Austin Post, filed in Utah because he and Park were originally co-parenting their daughter. Malone's ex-partner's identity was only revealed when she filed her custody case. The artist famously kept the majority of his love life a secret. However, he opened up about proposing to Park in Las Vegas in 2021 during a 2023 appearance on Alex Cooper's Call Her Daddy podcast. The 'White Iverson' vocalist told Cooper, 30, he was intoxicated, and Park originally refused the proposal. Malone also said he had 'lost a significant amount of money' that night. 'I was like, 'Hey, you wanna marry me?' I got a ring and all this stuff. And she said 'no.' She's like, 'Ask me tomorrow,' and I was like, 'Alright.' And then I did and I was sober and it was nice,' he admitted. The former couple welcomed their daughter a year after they got engaged. Malone never posted an announcement for his newborn daughter, but he did confirm her birth in conversation with Howard Stern on his eponymous show. In August 2024, Malone opened up about becoming a father and sharing his daughter with Park while speaking on CBS Sunday Mornings. 'It changes your life in the best way ever, and the most beautiful thing is she has a beautiful mom,' she said. 'I'll never forget her. If you've heard her cry, you'll never forget her, either. Four years ago, I was on a rough path. It was terrible.' Malone's custody revelations come as the singer is set to headline Coachella for the second weekend on Sunday. Last weekend, the Grammy-winner performed a slew of his fan-favorite hits, including 'rockstar,' 'Congratulations,' 'Psycho,' and 'Better Now.'
