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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

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

The Netherlands returns to Eurovision 2025: Joost Klein as a potential candidate

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Following successful negotiations between AVROTROS, NPO, and the EBU, the Netherlands is set to participate in Eurovision 2025. Despite lingering disagreements over last year’s disqualification, the EBU maintains that the decision was justified based on internal regulations. Nevertheless, AVROTROS is satisfied with the commitments made concerning the safety of participants and the appointment of Martin Green.

Due to time constraints, there won’t be an open selection process like last year. Instead, the broadcaster is in direct talks with potential artists. One of the names being considered is Joost Klein, who had previously been mentioned by RTL Boulevard. Joost’s chances are significant for two reasons: first, the AVROTROS team believes he should be given the chance to complete his project; second, other artists, such as Davina Michelle, are reluctant to participate in the upcoming competition.

Additionally, AVROTROS wants to send a message that last year’s disqualification was unjust. While the EBU cannot block Joost’s participation, there are concerns about his unpredictable behavior. If he does represent the Netherlands, he must adhere to strict guidelines on how he conducts himself during the event.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates!

Source: parool

Intense criticism of Joost Klein and his behavior in the Netherlands: “It’s not good for Eurovision”

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René van der Gijp and Johan Derksen did not have many kind words for Joost Klein, an artist who gained fame due to his eccentric behavior, especially in relation to the Eurovision Song Contest. During the Vandaag Inside show, the two hosts openly expressed their frustration. Van der Gijp commented, “He should be put in an institution. You shouldn’t send him to Eurovision anymore.”

Eccentric performance or annoying behavior?

Joost Klein is known for his striking and often provocative performances. What may seem funny to some fans has started to irritate many others. Johan Derksen, a regular panelist on the show, bluntly called Joost a “nobody”: “What a little idiot that guy is. He thinks he’s funny and interesting, but he’s really a nobody,” said Derksen. Guest Aran Bade agreed, adding, “It started as a joke, but now it’s just annoying. He shows no respect for his audience or the people around him.”

Impossible to have a normal conversation

Aran also described how difficult it is to have a normal conversation with Joost. “When you ask him something serious, you get weird answers. For example, he once said to me: ‘My car is broken, call the roadside assistance (ANWB)’,” Aran joked. He pointed out how Joost’s comments are becoming increasingly nonsensical. Derksen added that he doesn’t understand how people are seriously considering sending Joost back to Eurovision: “It’s just ridiculous.”

Criticism after gala

According to the show’s guests, Joost’s strange behavior is not limited to his statements but extends to his public appearances as well. A recent example was his disrespectful behavior at a gala in honor of André van Duin. Joost reportedly left the room before Van Duin had even finished his speech, something Aran described as “shameful.” The panelists were baffled that AvroTros is considering sending Joost to Eurovision again.

Personal security

René van der Gijp emphasized that Joost’s “act,” his indifferent attitude and behavior, has become really tiresome. He compared it to another artist, Stefano Keizers, who follows a similar approach: “It might be fun the first time, but when someone keeps doing it, it gets old.” Another notable aspect is Joost’s constant personal security detail. During the aforementioned gala, he once again had a bodyguard by his side, something the show’s hosts found puzzling. “Who’s paying for that? He always has someone next to him,” they wondered. Van der Gijp then made a sharp joke: “Is the bodyguard worried something might happen, or that Joost might jump off a balcony?”

Joost Klein close to representing the Netherlands at Eurovision 2025!

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RTL Boulevard reported on Saturday evening that Joost Klein is in talks with AVROTROS about his potential participation in the Eurovision Song Contest, set to take place in Basel. The broadcaster AVROTROS informed Boulevard that there is no news to share at this time.

RTL Boulevard reporter Aran Bade estimates that around November 1st, not only will the Netherlands’ participation in the Eurovision Song Contest be confirmed, but also the artist who will represent the country in Switzerland. According to sources close to RTL Boulevard, there is a strong chance that Joost Klein will once again represent the Netherlands at the music festival. On Friday evening, Joost Klein posted a screenshot on his Instagram stories showing the phrase “joost klein 2025” on his laptop screen. It remains unclear whether this post followed possible talks with AVROTROS.

It will likely take a few more weeks for an official response from AVROTROS on whether the Netherlands will participate and, if so, which artist they will send to Basel.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates!

Source: RTL Boulevard

Netherlands: These are the Eurostars that will perform at Het Grote Songfestivalfeest 2024!

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Het Grote Songfestivalfeest concert took place for the first time in late 2019 to promote the Eurovision 2020, which was scheduled to be held in the Netherlands. After three years of great success, the great Concert returns once again this December, live from the capital of the Netherlands!

Participants in the concert will include former winners and contestants of Eurovision, throughout its history!

The official account of the concert on Instagram announced new participants regularly, and this process was completed just a few hours ago. Here are the artists who will participate in the concert in alphabetical order and the songs they will perform:

  • alyona alyona & Jerry Heil – “Teresa & Maria” (Ukraine 2024, 3rd Place)
  • Anne-Marie David – “Tu te reconnaîtras” (Luxembourg 1973, 1st Place)
  • Baby Lasagna – “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” (Croatia 2024, 2nd Place)
  • Bambie Thug – “Doomsday Blue” (Ireland 2024, 6th Place)
  • Elena Tsagrinou – “El Diablo” (Cyprus 2021, 16th Place)
  • Gjon’s Tears – “Tout l’Univers” (Switzerland 2021, 3rd Place)
  • Go_A – “Shum” (Ukraine 2021, 5th Place)
  • Guy Sebastian – “Tonight Again” (Australia 2015, 5th Place)
  • Johnny Logan – “What’s Another Year” & “Hold Me Now” (Ireland 1980 & 1987, 1st Place)
  • Käärijä – “Cha Cha Cha” (Finland 2023, 2nd Place)
  • Katrina – “Love Shine a Light” (United Kingdom 1997, 1st Place)
  • Kristian Kostov – “Beautiful Mess” (Bulgaria 2017, 2nd Place)
  • Loreen – “Euphoria” & “Tattoo” (Sweden 2012 & 2023, 1st Place)
  • Maggie McNeal – “I See a Star” & “Amsterdam” (Netherlands 1974 & 1980, 3rd and 5th Place)
  • Marcus & Martinus – “Unforgettable” (Sweden 2024, 9th Place)
  • Marlayne – “Alles Heefy Een Ritme” (Netherlands 1986, 13th Place)
  • Marija Šerifović – “Molitva” (Serbia 2007, 1st Place)
  • Nemo – “The Code” (Switzerland 2024, 1st Place)
  • Nicole – “Ein bißchen Frieden” (Germany 1982, 1st Place)
  • Poli Genova – “If Love Was A Crime” (Bulgaria 2016, 4th Place)
  • S10 – “De Diepte” (Netherlands 2022, 11th Place)
  • Sakis Rouvas – “Shake It” & “This Is Our Night” (Greece 2004 & 2009, 3rd and 7th Place)
  • Verka Serduchka – “Dancing Lasha Tumbai” (Ukraine 2007, 2nd Place)

The great Concert is a co-production of the Dutch public broadcaster, AVROTROS with PILOTSTUDIO and will take place on December 12 at the Ziggo Dome in Amsterdam, and it will also be broadcasted on television, recorded by the Dutch national broadcaster.

The host for the evening will once again be Edsilia Rombley (Netherlands 1998 and 2007, host of Eurovision 2021), who is expected to perform her own entries as well.

Stay tuned, as the Dutch producers may announce some moresurprise participants in the future!