For the past couple of years, Greece has been internally-selecting their artists and songs for the Eurovision Song Contest. However, back in August, it emerged that this may change for the 2020 contest. OGAE Greece have now confirmed that the broadcaster is indeed considering a national selection for the 2020 contest.
Although it was initially rumoured that Greece may be considering a withdrawal from the contest, it was later confirmed that they would be participating in Rotterdam 2020. Along with this confirmation was the further discussion of changes to be made to the way ERT selects their entries.
Now, in an interview with OGAE Greece, ERT’s Head of International Relations has given some more details on their discussions. Although no exact details are set in stone, ideas are being brought forward it seems. Having attended a recent Eurovision workshop in Rome, Maria Koufopoulou has been exploring potential selection methods, explaining:
No decisions have been made yet but, yes, there are some thoughts on last year’s changes, such as the possibility of a national final … We are in discussion
ERT’s Maria Koufopoulou speaking to OGAE Greece
Regarding more exact details, she added:
As I said, yes, there is the possibility of a national final, maybe in two parts … but nothing has been decided yet
ERT’s Maria Koufopoulou speaking to OGAE Greece
Whilst Cyprus’ broadcaster CyBc have been in negotiations with record labels, ERT has yet to start any formal discussions with any parties. However, they have been approached by artists and songwriters with potential entries. We are glad to see ERT are working hard to improve their fortunes, and hope to see Greece return to their former glory next year!
Greece in Eurovision Song Contest
Previously, Greece had been one of the most successful and consistent countries at the contest. Between 2001 and 2013, Greece achieved ten top-ten results. These include third-place finishes for Antique (2001), Sakis Rouvas (2004) and Kalomira (2008). Of course, Greece’s Helena Paparizou won the contest in 2005 with “My Number One”.
However, Greece’s success at the contest has been inconsistent in the past couple of years. Over the past five years, the country has failed to qualify to the final twice (2016 and 2018). Their non-qualification in 2016 marked the first time the country had failed to reach the final in the history of its participation since the introduction of the semi-finals format.
Katerine Duska brought the country back to the final this year when the contest was hosted in Tel Aviv. She finished 5th in her semi final, and went on to finish in 21st place with 74 points in the Grand Final.
Are you excited about these potential changes? Who would you like to see represent Greece at the contest next year? Let us know! Be sure to stay updated by following @ESCXTRA on Twitter, @escxtra on Instagram and liking our Facebook page for the latest updates!
