Hungary have turned into an old reliable friend to see in Eurovision. Seven years ago, that would not have been the picture, spotty participation and only occasionally good results, but the Hungary of today provides us regularly with a competent song that is at least pleasant to listen to (yes, even AWS), if not even better. Hungarian trivia will give us plenty of interesting results to untangle, let’s see how much you know.
With a few weeks before we begin looking forward to Eurovision 2019, although a reminder that we are merely a month away from some of the first national finals, it’s that time in a Eurovision fan’s year to reflect on past years and all the good music and events they brought. And, also, some trivia.
So You Think You Know… is a series that will arrive each Wednesday, each time focusing on a new active Eurovision country. We are continuing alphabetically, Iceland will be next.
Hungary got its most successful result on its debut in 1994, true or false?
Frederick Bayer gave the country a 4th place to start their Eurovision career with. The closest since has been András Kállay-Saunders with Running.
‘Forogj, Vilag!’ was Hungary’s rather wonderful 2005 attempt at creating a Riverdance-esque experience. What does the title translate as?
What is the name of the current Hungarian national selection?
A Dal means simply 'The Song', and not a famous singer who is known for singing songs.
When did Hungary last fail to qualify for the grand final?
Poor Zoli Adok, it's been a decade. This streak is something Hungary share with Sweden, it's really very impressive.
Which of these years did Hungary not participate in Eurovision?
They had a spotty participation record in the 00s, not participating from 1999-2004 inclusive, and in 2006, and again in 2010. Thankfully that seems to be a thing of the past.
What was the name of the remix that got Kedvesem to the top 10 in 2013?
Imagine some of those others...
Who has Hungary given the most points to in the grand final?
No neighbours for Hungary, at least not how they choose to vote. Their Slavic neighbours (like Serbia) are their biggest supporters, but Hungary doesn't return the favour as often.
Which Hungarian entry won the OGAE poll?
Joci Papai gave us a rather wonderful ethnic-tinged entry in 'Origo'. What is his background, that influenced the style of music he used in the song?
AWS shocked and delighted all of us (metalheads) at Eurovision this year. Their entry 'Viszlát nyár', translates as what rather poetic seasonal phrase?
An early draft of this question considered whether I should be asking if anyone knew that AWS were originally known as Ants Without Slippers. I figured no one did. But it is amusing. Now if Hungary don't make it to the final next year, it will seem like this song was prophetic in predicting the end of their summer.
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