Netherlands: Cornald Maas has already listened to the 331 submitted songs, and one stands out

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Earlier today, the Dutch public broadcaster confirmed the country’s participation in Eurovision 2026 and announced that a total of 331 songs were submitted for consideration to represent the Netherlands in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place this May in Basel.

The submission period for entries to represent the Netherlands in Eurovision 2025 has officially closed, with 331 songs submitted for the internal selection process that will determine the country’s entry for the competition.

According to Cornald Maas, a renowned Dutch presenter and Eurovision commentator, who spoke to RTL Boulevard, he has already listened to all 331 submissions. Maas revealed that there is one specific song that stands out and appears ready to win the contest.

Maas, a seasoned Eurovision expert widely recognized for his involvement in the festival, described the selection process as particularly challenging this year, given the diverse range of musical styles and themes among the entries. Despite the wealth of talent on display, he emphasized that one song shines above the rest and seems like a strong contender for victory.

A committee will ultimately choose the Dutch entry for Eurovision 2025, with the decision expected to be announced in the coming weeks.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the latest updates!

Source: RTL BOULEVARD

Netherlands: 331 Songs Submitted for Eurovision 2025!

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AVROTROS has announced that 331 songs have been submitted to represent the Netherlands at Eurovision 2025.

Dutch broadcaster AVROTROS has announced that 331 songs have been submitted to the selection process for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. The deadline for submitting songs for the selection closed last night, with entries to be assessed in the coming weeks.

Particularly pleased with the high number of entries

According to AVROTROS announcement, there is particular satisfaction with the large number of entries

A huge and amazing number, given the short period of time during which the submission was open and the additional requirements attached to each entry

The songs are written in Dutch and English as well as other languages. According to the broadcaster, different genres of music are also represented, such as ballads, fast-paced songs and rock. The Selection Committee will listen to all the songs submitted, then select a number of artists to perform their songs live in front of the committee. From these live performances, the selection committee will choose the artist and song that will represent the Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest in May 2025. The jury includes:

Jacqueline Govaert
Jaap Reesema
Carolien Borgers
Hila Noorzai
Cornald Maas
Sander Lantinga

But the news doesn’t stop there as part of the announcement from AVROTROS, the broadcaster confirmed that it will be participating in the Eurovision Song Contest 2026! Song submission for the selection will open on 1 August 2025.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments!

Source: AVROTROS

The Netherlands: Douwe Bob will also submit song for Eurovision 2025!

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Douwe Bob is the last artist so far who has already competed in the Eurovision Song Contest and will submit an entry for Eurovision 2025!

The Netherlands‘ Eurovision 2016 representative Douwe Bob confirmed in an interview with Radio538 that he has a song ready to submit in order to compete in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Basel, Switzerland.

Douwe Bob is the third Dutch artist who have appeared on the Eurovision stage in the past. The other two artists are Gerard Joling (1988) and Anouk (2013).

The process of songs submission is going end on Friday, November 22 and the entry will be chosen by a special committee of AVROTROS which consists of the following people:

  • Jacqueline Govaert
  • Jaap Reesema
  • Carolien Borgers
  • Hila Noorzai
  • Cornald Maas
  • Sander Lantinga

Source: RTL

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Eurovision Song Contest 2025!

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The Netherlands: Anouk submitted a bid for Eurovision 2025!

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As the deadline for artists to submit their entries for Eurovision 2025 approaches, AVROTROS, the Dutch broadcaster, has experienced a surprising surge of interest. Among the most notable developments is the confirmation of Anouk’s participation, a speculation that began earlier this summer but has now been officially confirmed.

Anouk to Eurovision 2025: A Long-Awaited Return?

In July, Anouk, who represented The Netherlands at Eurovision 2013 with her hit “Birds,” expressed her desire to return to the contest. She had hinted at the possibility of participating in Eurovision 2025 with a new track, mentioning at the time:

I have recorded a strong track… perfect for the Eurovision Song Contest, but there’s no committee anymore, so I don’t know who to send it to.

Since AVROTROS confirmed its participation in Eurovision 2025 and the submission process began, fans were eager to find out whether Anouk would indeed submit her song. The Dutch singer had stated that she was awaiting an official invitation from AVROTROS to participate in the selection process.

Anouk Has Submitted a Song

In a recent appearance on RTL Boulevard, Anouk revealed that she has officially submitted a song for Eurovision 2025.

“A lot of people can breathe easy,” she joked, adding that the song is not a melancholic ballad.

“No birds falling from the roof,” she said, referring to her 2013 hit.

Instead, Anouk described the track as “a pretty hard song,” much to the relief of those who were concerned she might return with another ballad entry.

“May the Best Win”

Despite submitting a song for Eurovision 2025, Anouk maintains a laid-back attitude about the outcome of the selection process. She emphasized that she has no problem if her song doesn’t make it to Eurovision, as she has already represented The Netherlands once before. Anouk also shared that it is not the first time she faced rejection from AVROTROS. In fact, she had previously submitted a song in collaboration with rapper Latifah, but the committee ultimately chose “Europapa” by Joost Klein instead.

Anouk’s previous Eurovision participation in 2013 marked a turning point for The Netherlands, which had suffered a nine-year streak of non-qualification at the contest. Her entry, “Birds,” finished in 9th place, bringing the country back into the spotlight and reigniting the Netherlands’ success in the competition.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: RTL

Netherlands: Strong interest in Eurovision 2025 brings surprises – What Cornald Maas and Anouk’s manager revealed

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Excitement for Eurovision 2025 is surging in the Netherlands, as the selection committee reports a heightened number of entries from artists and songwriters. Cornald Maas, a member of the special committee tasked with choosing the artist and song to represent the country, recently discussed the process on the public television show Eva, revealing that many submissions have come from artists who had previously expressed reluctance or intended not to participate.

Increased Interest from Artists and Songwriters

Maas noted that this year has seen an unexpected surge of interest, as artists who initially stated they wouldn’t participate ultimately submitted their proposals. This has boosted the committee’s optimism, as the range and quality of submissions have expanded. Although he withheld specific names, Maas emphasized that the committee must make careful decisions given the diversity and quality of the songs submitted.

Anouk Ready with Songs for Eurovision – Waiting for the Call

On the same program, the manager of renowned artist Anouk, who successfully represented the Netherlands in 2013 with Birds, expressed her readiness to return to Eurovision. He noted that Anouk has already prepared a collection of songs she deems suitable for the competition and is awaiting a potential official invitation from Avrotros, the organization responsible for the Netherlands’ Eurovision participation.

Time Pressure and the Aim for a Strong Entry

As Anouk’s manager pointed out, time is of the essence, as Eurovision preparations require significant effort and organization. Anouk’s interest in returning has fueled speculation that the Netherlands will attempt a high-caliber entry aimed at a top position. The Eurovision committee, including Cornald Maas and its other members, faces the challenge of selecting an act that not only reflects the country’s current music scene but also has strong potential in the competition.

The selection process is expected to conclude soon, with everyone eagerly awaiting the announcement of the final choice for Eurovision 2025. Will it be Anouk or a new artist who will carry the Netherlands’ flag in the upcoming event? The coming weeks will be crucial, with rumors and anticipation building, as the Netherlands prepares for a memorable return to the Eurovision stage.

In the meantime, we can remember Anouk’s last Eurovision entry, Birds, which ended a 14-year drought by placing the Netherlands in the top 10.

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Dutch participation at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, in Basel!

Netherlands: The committee responsible for choosing the country’s Eurovision 2025 act!

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Following AVROTROS’ official confirmation that the country will compete in the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, and Joost Klein’s refusal to represent the country for the second time, the Dutch broadcaster began its search for its Eurovision 2025 act.

An internal selection process will be used, as has been done successfully by AVROTROS in previous editions. Meanwhile, and now that the registration window for aspiring artists is open, the evaluation process has begun, as has the committee in charge.

Who will select the Dutch entry for Eurovision 2025?

A six-member committee will evaluate the submitted songs and make a decision. The jury will be composed of:

  • Jacqueline Govaert
  • Jaap Reesema
  • Carolien Borgers
  • Hila Noorzai
  • Cornald Maas
  • Sander Lantinga

The selection committee has already begun its operations and elected a chairperson at its inaugural meeting. The newly appointed Head of Delegation will be present at committee meetings but will not be able to cast a vote.

The committee’s criteria

Following the deadline of November 22nd for artists to submit their proposals, the committee tasked with selecting the next Dutch act will make its initial selection. Following the disappointing performance of Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper in 2023, which resulted in the first Dutch non-qualification in eight years of a successful course, the shortlisted artists will then perform their entry live in order to have their vocal abilities assessed.

The Netherlands – Eurovision 2025

Following months of discussions between the EBU and AVROTROS and the granting of an extension in registering for Eurovision 2025 in the wake of the Malmö incident, AVROTROS ultimately decided to take part at Eurovision 2025. The pledges made regarding participant safety and Martin Green’s appointment were likely a factor.

Moreover, AVROTROS informed us that along with other delegations has advocated for structural changes both during and right after the Malmö edition of the Eurovision Song Contest, both in front of and behind the scenes. The broadcaster looks forward to the future and is happy with the set of measures that are currently in place.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: songfestivalweblog

Eurovision 2025: Changes in backstage filming rules

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The national broadcaster of the Netherlands, AVROTROS, after announcing the country’s participation in Eurovision 2025 in Basel, Switzerland, has made further revelations.

In an interview held today at the broadcaster’s headquarters, AVROTROS General Director Taco Zimmermann confirmed that the new head of the Dutch delegation will be Claudia van der Pas. Van der Pas served as the assistant head of delegation for AVROTROS at Eurovision 2024 in Malmö and Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool.

Van der Pas succeeds Twan van der Nieuwenhuijzen, who stepped down after the tumultuous events of Eurovision 2024 in Malmö, Sweden. Following the consequences of Joost Klein’s disqualification due to an incident backstage with a videographer, the Dutch broadcaster negotiated an extension with the EBU for their participation deadline, citing concerns over the disqualification and how the contest was managed.

Changes in Backstage Filming Policy for the Contest

One of the key issues raised by the broadcaster during talks with the EBU was the matter of backstage filming. The two sides had clashed over whether arrangements were made to prevent the filming of Klein behind the scenes, with the EBU denying the existence of a written agreement, while AVROTROS claimed to have evidence of such an agreement.

During the interview, AVROTROS confirmed that changes would be made to the contest’s filming rules. While a statement released yesterday confirmed that the EBU will “significantly reduce backstage filming,” the broadcaster clarified that artists will no longer be allowed to be filmed backstage or in dressing rooms without permission.

An AVROTROS spokesperson explained:

“Filming is now much more restricted, and it is also strictly prohibited for people to approach artists backstage without prior clearance. This must first go through the head of media, who will then need to grant permission. So, no one will unexpectedly face a camera anymore.”

Thus, anyone wishing to film artists backstage – including the EBU itself – must now receive explicit permission from the head of press of the delegations. This also applies to embedded media traveling with national delegations competing in the contest.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the latest updates!

Source: songfestivalpodcast

Netherlands: “The decision to participate in Eurovision 2025 was made regardless of Joost Klein’s choice

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Following Joost Klein’s withdrawal from Eurovision, AVROTROS is now in search of a new artist for the 2025 contest. Taco Zimmerman, CEO of the Dutch public broadcaster, spoke about the turmoil caused by this decision and the next steps regarding the country’s participation in the upcoming competition.

Joost Klein’s Sudden Withdrawal

Despite initial discussions, Joost Klein decided not to participate in Eurovision 2025. He made the announcement during an interview on Eva Jinek’s talk show, where he emotionally explained his decision to step away from the Eurovision stage for good. According to Zimmerman, although no contracts were signed, talks with the eccentric artist had advanced significantly. However, in recent weeks, it became increasingly clear that Joost was having second thoughts about his participation.

Moving Forward Without Joost

Faced with the urgent need to find a replacement, AVROTROS is now calling on artists, songwriters, and composers to express their interest by November 22. Zimmerman emphasized that despite the limited time, there is still enough to find an outstanding artist and song, citing Duncan Laurence’s example. Laurence introduced his song “Arcade” in December 2018, which went on to win Eurovision in 2019.

Choosing an Experienced Artist

After the difficulties of recent years, particularly with Joost Klein’s situation and the challenging path of Mia Nicolai and Dion Cooper, AVROTROS is now seeking an artist with substantial stage experience. According to Zimmerman, the chosen candidate must be well-prepared for the pressures and demands of the competition—something that has become more important in recent years due to Eurovision’s growing public attention.

The Case of Anouk

Singer Anouk, who successfully represented the Netherlands in Eurovision in the past, had expressed interest in participating with a new album. Although AVROTROS initially did not consider this option due to its discussions with Joost Klein, the door is now open for Anouk to enter the running.

The Next Steps

With preparations for Eurovision 2025 in full swing, AVROTROS plans to offer additional support to the selected artist. This could include not only physical security but also psychological support, ensuring the artist feels comfortable and protected amid the intense atmosphere of Eurovision.

The Decision to Participate

The Netherlands had expressed doubts about whether to participate again in the contest, mainly due to the disappointment caused by Joost Klein’s disqualification at last year’s competition in Malmö. However, as Zimmerman explained, discussions with the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) and subsequent changes convinced the Dutch delegation to return to Eurovision.

The Netherlands is now preparing for Eurovision 2025, hoping to find an artist who can shine on the stage in Basel, with announcements expected in the first quarter of 2025.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the latest updates!

Source: Telegraaf

The Netherlands: AVROTROS will take part at Eurovision 2025 | Joost Klein declined the opportunity to represent the country again!

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AVROTROS officially confirms that the country will compete in the 69th Eurovision Song Contest, following months of discussions between the EBU and AVROTROS and the granting of an extension in registering for Eurovision 2025 in the wake of the Malmö incident.

The pledges made regarding participant safety and Martin Green’s appointment likely caused AVROTROS to reconsider their choice and eventually compete in Eurovision 2025. Nevertheless, the nation opts for for an internal selection process because Joost Klein declined the chance to represent the nation for the second time, despite the rumors that he would return.

Eurovision 2025 – The Netherlands

AVROTROS informs us that along with other delegations has advocated for structural changes both during and right after the Malmö edition of the Eurovision Song Contest, both in front of and behind the scenes. The broadcaster looks forward to the future and is happy with the set of measures that are currently in place.

Joost Klein declined the chance to represent The Netherlands in Eurovision 2025

Joost Klein, who was disqualified at Eurovision 2024 shortly before the Grand Final, was contacted by the broadcaster to represent the nation once more, according to AVROTROS’ press release today. Joost, however, declined because he would prefer to concentrate on recovering from this traumatic experience.

Moreover and via his Instagram account, Joost Klein mentions:

Is it greed or is it desire?
I’ve made the decision to NOT participate in Eurovision 2025
My team and I had everything ready, but it just doesn’t feel good. I am very thankful for all the love around the world, however I am still very affected by this year. I need to give myself more time to heal.
It was my dream to do Eurovision and we did that.
For months I had this feeling that I needed to make a return to finish the job. But in reality: we reached a higher goal. Europapa united a lot of people. This story is not just about me, it’s about us. I’m grateful.
People from all around the world are trying to learn Dutch and this makes me very proud of my language.
We achieved something previously claimed to be impossible. We used the real power of the internet.
So maybe I was blinded, but now I see clear. I have to follow the light. Not fight against it.
The media will be the media, but I have no place in that. I am not made for this big machine. My path is different and I welcome anybody who would like to join this adventure. Trust the process.
I believe one of my purposes in life is to connect people. Through music, (digital) art and performance art. My tour around Europe and USA is sold out and I can’t wait to play my new album there. Let’s all come together. This life is crazy, but just know..
I’m still standing

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Joost Klein (@joostklein)

An internal selection

As usual, AVROTROS plans to choose internally after Joost Klein declined to represent the Netherlands in Eurovision 2025. In order to submit an authentic, unique, and competitive song, interested artists, composers, songwriters, producers, and record labels are encouraged to register now. The deadline to register is Friday, November 22, at 23:59.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: AVROTROS

Netherlands: No decision regarding Eurovision participation taken yet!

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Despite the hopeful news that were published yesterday in many different media, the Dutch public broadcaster, stated through the channel’s Director, that they have yet to make a decision regarding their participation in Eurovision 2025.

Taco Zimmerman, chairman of AVROTROS, gave an interview to “Spreek Buis”, and he said that there is no decision regarding the Dutch participation in Eurovision 2025.

“You will hear about that soon, but we would not have asked for a postponement if it was not a serious consideration.”

There are many rumours in recent days in Dutch press, saying that AVROTROS intends to take part in the Contest in Basel, and that they have already selected Joost Klein as their representative.

Going on with his interview, the chairman was asked why isn’t the Dutch broadcaster more open, regarding they way they will make this decision:

“It is a delicate matter. We are in talks with the EBU about the fact that things have to change there. We want guarantees first, before we decide to participate again. Leaving the contest was the feeling present within the company at one point. It applied to the upcoming edition, but we never considered quitting for good.”

The EBU has given AVROTROS a further deadline to confirm their entry in the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, until November 1.

The deadline of the Netherlands is in a few days, and that means that we will soon have news regarding the country’s participation!

https://youtu.be/IiHFnmI8pxg

Stay tuned on Eurovisionfun for all the news regarding the Dutch participation at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, in Basel!

Source: spreekbuis.nl