Mans Zelmerlow’s ‘Revolution‘ lit up the Eurovision Song Contest community this weekend. Taking to the stage at SVT’s Melodifestivalen, he delivered an iconic performance to rival the debut of ‘Heroes‘ in 2015. That latter led him to victory in Vienna; perhaps the former will do the same in Basel?
What I found interesting was the online reaction to the performance; it’s a boring song, it’s the same song as ‘Heroes‘, this is a let down, it’s too much of a sequel…
From the press previews on Tuesday, through the thirty-second clips, the dress rehearsal feedback, and the release of the audio to streaming services, ‘Revolution‘ has been discussed to death in the five days before we actually saw the final product on Saturday night.
For five days, the community put a part of Zelmerow’s return under the microscope, clouding the most important part of any song entered into a contest. Moments before voting lines opened, Saturday night was the first time the audience at home experienced ‘Revolution.’
They Watch It Once
The vast majority of the Eurovision Song Contest audience in May, and therefore the vast majority of the televote, has never seen or heard any of the songs before the night. They haven’t poured over thirty-second clips, they haven’t sat down and streamed the album taking detailed notes, and the majority haven’t watched the midweek Semi Finals. They just sit down and watch the show.
If you want to win the Song Contest, then the first impression is the impression that counts.
Yes’ it’s important to build up momentum through PR and streaming. Getting your name out there and being considered as one of the front runners offers subtle advantages both in competition; you’re more likely to be placed in the prime spots of the running order, more of the specialist media will look to get an interview with you, and when the mainstream media can pick out maybe three names as “the ones to watch” you’re going to be in there.
But on the night, the goal is simple. To be memorable during the three minutes, and then be attractive in the recap so people decide ‘that’s the one I’m going to vote for’ and pick up the phone.
Never Forget Your First Time
Right now, our community is devouring National Final songs. Very few songs reach the televised heats, Semi Finals or Finals without going through an army of reviewers and reactors. Yet the TV audiences will come to the songs with virgin eyes and ears.
That’s why I need to remember my very first reaction to a song. That’s what I need to judge it against. That’s just how I like to approach the big moments of the season. You might have a different way that’s the right way for you.
Just remember that the audience at home is going to be voting on the first performance they see. If you want to talk about who’s coming first, talk about who’s watching for the first time.
K A J