jawnbc | ESC 2005: My sentimental favourite (Reply)

Two things have altered the terrain of Eurovision after 1998: the dropping of the language rule and the introduction of televoting. Before 1999 (and after 1975, largely thanks to ABBA’s win in 1974), countries had to send a song in one of their official languages, which meant only Ireland, Malta and the UK could send a song in English--Malta’s never won, the UK won twice, and Ireland 6 times in that period. But Ireland also won when each country’s votes were based on a jury of 8-10 viewers located in a studio somewhere; no one can argue that the winners before 1998, when the public was allowed to select each county’s point allocation. Today’s Eurovision is ostensibly more democratic, but long-term fans generally agree that it’s no longer much of a song contest. Performances win, usually of OK songs, often by talented singers. But some have been gimmicks. Every year there’s usually a song that stands out as a great song, often sung by a great singer.

Last year it was Cyprus’ Lisa Andreas, and Stronger Every Minute. Which, not incidentally, was

querrelle and my wedding song.

This year I’ve got a similar favourite, and if my wishes were to come true Malta would be the winner of the 50th Eurovision in Kyiv on 21 May. Angel is a good old fashioned power ballad--a really well executed one. Adding to its appeal is one of the more interesting (and talented) singers, Chiara (Siracusa), who just missed winning for Malta in...1998. Back then even the Maltese expected little from this kinda chunky, pleasant looking teenager. Then she started singing. Chiara is that rare thing, someone born to sing, to performer.

I see two barriers to Chiara winning: her song’s draw (3rd of 24, too early) and body fascism. Chiara probably weights 110 kg, though she’s gorgeous, and it’s unclear if Europe is that shallow--can only skinny girls win? I’m more optimistic about that, but think pulling that 3rd slot will make hers a top 10 finish: had she pulled 20th or later, I’d be predicting a win for her.

Without further adieu, je vous offres Angel (Malta 2005) Chiara. Listen a couple of times; I’d be keen to hear what others think. You can catch both the preview video (lip synched) or live performance videos on the Malta page of Keith’s excellent Irish Eurovsion site All Kinds of Everything.. Lyrics are below:

Angel (words and music, Chiara Siracusa)

Far away in a lost world
I hear your voice calling for heaven
Cast away, caught in mem’ries
You must believe love will come through

I’ll be your angel in your darkest night
I’ll be your destiny, waiting by your side
I’ll be the sunshine when you’re feeling blue
I’m always here for you

Comes a day, heart on fire
When all your faith seems to be missing
Go your way and you’ll find there
A land of hope, a land of dreams

I’ll be your angel in your darkest night
I’ll be your destiny, waiting by your side
I’ll be the sunshine when you’re feeling blue
I’m always here for you

And when you lose it all
And nothing seems right
Just keep holding on
To me

I’ll be your angel in your darkest night
I’ll be your destiny waiting by your side
I’ll be the sunshine when you’re feeling blue
I’m always here for you

[and thanks to

zurcherart for the 2005 version of my ESC user icon!]