The United Kingdom opts for a different approach in 2020! After a number of years to leave the decision to the public, the country opts for Eurovision 2020 internally. Will this yield a better result for them?
No Eurovision: You Decide
For the first time since 2016, we don’t have to write Eurovision: You Decide in our diaries. The British broadcaster BBC confirmed on 16 September to go for an internal selection. In the five previous years on 2016, the UK also opted internally. After the last place that Michael Rice and his Bigger Than Us achieved in Tel Aviv, BBC decided to go for a new approach. In this way they hope to be more successful again in Eurovision.
From top to bottom
Those who have been following the Eurovision Song Contest for a long time remember how the United Kingdom used to be one of the best countries in the competition. Unfortunately, that success was not to last. From the 21st century the powerhouse got into a serious dip that they still have not come out of. The golden years suddenly seem to be forgotten.
For next year, BBC has chosen to collaborate with record company BMG. Together they will choose the British entry for Eurovision 2020. The commercial branch BBC Studios was already contacting record labels. Ultimately, they chose to work with BMG. The reason? Their vision of the selection procedure with a view to international appeal required enormously. To give an example, BMG was responsible for Occidentali’s Karma by Francesco Gabbani. He was the big pre-contest favorite on behalf of Italy in 2017. Other well-known names who have already signed a contract with BMG are Kylie Minogue, Bring Me The Horizon, Peter Doherty, Boy George and Simple Minds.
You can read more about the collad here:
Arrival of BMG a turning point for UK in Eurovision
We very much hope this marks the start of an exciting new chapter
Mel Balac, creative director BBC Studios
Kate Phillips, BBC controller or entertainment commissioning is very enthusiastic about the choice. She says that the dedication to choosing the right Eurovision song has never been so great. The new collaboration with BMG will only reinforce that enthusiasm and motivation. With the famous artists that DMG has already managed to get hold of, Kate is convinced that they will find the perfect entry for Rotterdam 2020. United Kingdom from zero back to hero?
United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest
Eurovision 2020 will be the 63rd edition for the British. They debuted in 1957 and since 1959 they have always participated. With the exception of 1958, they never skipped an edition. The United Kingdom was once one of the most successful countries at the Eurovision Song Contest. 42 times in the top 10, of which 15 second and 5 first places. One thing is certain, no one takes those successes away from them. However, their last victory dates back to 1997. Then, Katrina And The Waves won the fifth British victory with Love Shine A Light. That is still their best result of all time so far.
Will the Brits find their way back to the top? Do you think the new BBC plans will lead to better results? Let us know in the comments below!
