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Sweden: Cornelia Jakobs and Robin Bengtsson are the two direct finalists of the first semi-final of Melodifestivalen 2022!

A while ago, Melodifestivalen 2022, probably your favourite national selection process of the entire list of participating countries in the Eurovision Song Contest, started off with its first semi-final show.

The show

Oscar Zia was the host of the night and as we already know, all the shows for the national selection procedure of the Swedish representative for this year’s contest in Turin will take place exclusively in Stockholm. The first semi-final took place at The Avicii Arena, one of Stockholm’s most iconic buildings which is also the largest spherical building in the world.

The first semi-final performers

  • Malou Prytz – “Bananas

  • Theoz – “Som du vill

  • Shirley Clamp – “Let There Be Angels

  • Omar Rudberg – “Moving Like That

  • Danne Stråhed – “Hallabaloo

  • Cornelia Jakobs – “Hold Me Closer

Cornelia Jakobs

  • Robin Bengtsson – “Innocent Love

The new voting system

There will be two voting rounds. In each round, each viewer gets to vote five times at the most (five hearts). From this year an on, after all seven performances in each semi-final, SVT will announce the artist that received the most overall votes, both through the app and by phone, irrespective of the viewer age-bands.

The remaining six contestants, move on to the second voting round. The voters can then give each of the remaining songs five hearts at the most, same way like the first voting round. At the second voting round, the votes received during the first voting round also count against the total of votes received.

The results of the second voting round are determined by the system of the eight age-bands: 3–9 years old, 10–15years old, 16–29 years old, 30–44 years old, 45–59 years old, 60–74 years old, over 75, as well as the televotes.

All in all, we will have two direct qualifiers, one determined from the first voting round and one from the second voting round and also two qualifiers for the fifth semi-final, also from the second voting round.

The results

First voting round

  • First voting round winner: Cornelia Jakobs with the songHold Me Closer

Second voting round

Due to some technical issues, Oscar informed us that the viewers will not be able to vote from the Melodifestivalen dedicated smartphone app and the winners of both voting rounds will be determined by the televotes, solely.

  • The two qualifiers to the fifth semi-final are: Danne Stråhed with the song “Hallabaloo and THEOZ with the song “Som Du Vill

The verdict

The two direct qualifiers are Cornelia Jakobs with the song “Hold Me Closer” and Robin Bengtsson with the song “Innocent Love” and we will get to see them perform their songs live, on the 12th of March, when the finals will take place at Friends Arena. Starting from 2022, there will not be a winning performance of the two finalists anymore, as the TV time now fills up with the announcement of the results.

Those that qualified to the fifth semi-final, that replaced the second chance show in the new format of Melodifestivalen, were Danne Stråhed with the song “Hallabaloo”  and THEOZ with the song “Som Du Vill“.

Sadly Malou Prytz, Omar Rudberg and Shirley Clamp didn’t manage to qualify to either the fifth semi-final or the finals of Melodifestivalen.

See you next Saturday, after the second-semi final, when you will have the chance to be informed in detail about the results, as soon as they are announced on TV!

Stay tuned at Eurovisionfun, for all the latest developments regarding Sweden’s entry for Eurovision 2022!

Sweden: Watch clips from the first rehearsals of the first Melodifestivalen 2022 semi-final!

As usual, a couple of days before each Melodifestivalen semi-final, SVT publishes rehearsal clips of all seven competing artists of the first semi-final of February the 5th.

A while ago, the first 30 second rehearsal clips of the first semi-final got published! You can watch the published clips, by clicking on the song title links below:

The songs

1. Malou Prytz – “Bananas” 

2. Theoz – Som du vill” 

3. Shirley Clamp – “Let There Be Angels” 

4. Omar Rudberg – “Moving Like That”

5. Danne Stråhed – “Hallabaloo” 

6. Cornelia Jakobs – “Hold Me Closer” 

7. Robin Bengtsson – “Innocent Love” 

The lyrics of the songs were published on Wednesday February 2nd, which you can read in more detail, in our corresponding article.

The process

Currently, the Swedish government guidelines and restrictions due to the pandemic, limit the crowd in indoor events to 500 people while also allowing one seat empty in each direction around one occupied seat.

Two songs will directly qualify to the grand final of Melodifestivalen 2022, which will take place on the 12th of March. The songs that will place third and fourth will have to compete again, at the fifth semi-final, held on the 5th of March. There will be four semi-finals in total.

Oscar Zia will present the Melodifestivalen 2022, while due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the shows for the national selection process that will represent Sweden in Turin this year, will be held exclusively in Stockholm!

Melodifestivalen 2022 finals will he held on the 12th of March, when we will get to know who will be selected as a representative for Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest in Turin!

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi-Final on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi-Final on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi-Final on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi-Final on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi-Final on the 5th of March
  • The Final on the 12th of March

Stay tuned at Eurovisionfun, for all the latest developments regarding Sweden’s entry for Eurovision 2022!

Sweden: The general rehearsal of the first Melodifestivalen 2022 semi-final! (Live)

The general rehearsal of the first Melodifestivalen 2022 semi-final has just started. We are happy to be watching it live, at the SVT online press centre and we will be covering this rehearsal, describing in detail what is happening during the show, for you to read.

This article is being updated in real-time, all you need to do is hit the refresh button on your browser and all the rest is on us! We will keep you up to date with all the latest information and images off this semi-final rehearsal, allowing you to get a glimpse of what you will get to see tomorrow February 5, at 20:00 CET, when you watch the actual semi-final show on SVT and SVT Play.

The show

Oscar Zia is the host of the night and as previously reported, all the shows for the national selection procedure of the Swedish representative for this year’s contest in Turin will take place exclusively in Stockholm and as already announced, semi-finals one to three will take place at the Avicii Arena, while semi-finals four and five as well as the grand final will be held at Friends Arena.

Oscar is at the arena and everything is ready to begin! It’s time to face the music! Opening the show, we’ve got Tusse, performing his last year’s entry “Voices“! Well, Oscar Zia joins him at the end of the song!

The performances

  • Malou Prytz – “Bananas

The introduction video of Malou is on, we’ve got some shots from her rehearsals on her choreography.

Malou is first up on stage, performing her song Bananas. A funky pop song that gives slumber party vibes and she seems to be really comfortable. She’s on a green suit and she is accompanied by a drummer and five dancers. She’s got nice vocals I have to admit. Her song will either make you go “Bananas” with it, or you won’t like it at all. Nothing in the middle.

  • Theoz – “Som du vill

Now there’s Theoz introduction video, before he goes on stage and performs his song. Lot’s of flashbacks on his career and Måns Zelmerlow is also mentioned. We see Theoz rehearsing his moves on the dance studio.

Now he goes on stage, on an purple outfit, sleek hair performing his uptempo and high energy song, entirely in Swedish, as youthful as Theoz is. Dour dancers in yellow outfits around him, he plays with lighting and shading panels. Jumps on the secondary stage and there’s some ledwork on the floor. His vocals are nice. Let’s see if that young and ultra popular influencing artist will make it to the finals.

  • Shirley Clamp – “Let There Be Angels

The introduction video is from her dance rehearsals also showing previous participations at Mello. Linda Bengtzing also storms in the dance hall where the big Swedish artist rehearses her performance and they make fun of each other.

Her song is an emotional ballad, vocals on point. She wears a petrol suit with a cape, and gloves. The song peaks with wind blowing on her hair. She’s playing with the lights, her performance is bold, the enormous stone on her left hand ring can’t take your attention away from her vocals and her eyes, we’ve got lots of close ups emphasising on her eyes. The performance ends up with a ghosting video effect.

  • Omar Rudberg – “Moving Like That

No introduction needed after his massive worldwide success with the Netflix series “Young Royals”, but we’ve got an introduction video for Omar Rudberg too. There’s also Carola in his video, some reference to her 2006 melodifestivalen performance with the Swedish version of her then entry Invincible, probably she is one of his icons in the contest.

Omar starts off backstage and enters the stage, as his song has already started. Long glances on camera, wearing a glowy outfit. The song is uptempo and uplifting, the choreography is intense and nice, it’s him and two dancers. His song gives the essential latin vibes apart from the melody by including a bridge in Spanish. He is probably one of the qualifiers tomorrow, let’s see.

  • Danne Stråhed – “Hallabaloo

Here is Danne with his song Hallaballoo. This is a kind of Melodifestivalen entry that we’ve seen numerous times, however it is difficult for a song like that to stand out. He is throughout the song at the secondary stage and all the lighting is comprised of golden leds. A fun song fully in Swedish by Danne and his six-member band, but we reckon that it might hardly make it to the finals.

  • Cornelia Jakobs – “Hold Me Closer

Well here’s Cornelia’s introduction video, who is at home, really at ease making coffee, describing her entry. The former Love Generation member shows the interviewer around her home, probably some home studio and the living room. Describes her song as a break up song, which is quite emotional.

Well here is Cornelia on stage, radiant, there’s a circular panel behind her. She wears a top with glowing stones. Lot’s of close ups and lightwork. The song is such an explosion of emotions, describes a breakup stage everyone has been through. Her vocals are impeccable and it is unlike what we’ve seen from her from her Love Generation entries. Are an amazing song and great vocals enough to secure her a place at the finals? Let’s see if she will be a shocking qualifier!

Cornelia Jakobs

  • Robin Bengtsson – “Innocent Love

Robin’s introduction video is from his new home at his home studio, he is describing his entry this year. Oh there’s also Victor Crone in the green room!

Here is Robin on stage. There are some technical difficulties in the beginning. His outfit is simple, minimal moves and a fun 90s vibes song. Robin is gonna have a second take, on an attempt to fix the technical issues that occurred during his performance.

This time he is competing with an easy listening pop song, which is uptempo at the same time, maybe a bit close to the songs we usually get to listen by Ed Sheeran or Coldplay! He will most probably qualify but it is unknown if we’re gonna see him in Turin this year!

As usual, we’ve got a recap of all seven contestants, showing the phone numbers that the public will get the chance to vote.

Following the recap, we get to listen to Oscar Zia performing a song mentioning previous Melodifestivalen artists in the lyrics, the instrumental is power-ballad style. Oscar storms on the second stage and goes on performing the song. Now there are four dancers waving the Swedish-speaking Finns flag (red flag, yellow cross). After the songs ends, Måns Zelmerlow appears on screen and Oscar goes nuts!

The first voting round

We remind you that all the results that will be announced in this general rehearsal are virtual, so as to emulate the whole televised show.

Now it’s the time that the winner of the first voting round will be announced! Oscar keeps us thrilled, typical voting music theme plays at the background!

The first virtual direct qualifier, determined by the first voting round is Danne Stråhed with his song “Hallabaloo”!

The rest of the six artists move on to the second voting round. Following the announcement, we’ve got a second recap of all the six remaining songs. The viewers will get five votes in total, once more in order to vote for their favourite artists. At the second voting round, the votes received during the first voting round also count against the total of votes received.

Oscar appears in the green room, showing pics of previous Melodifestivalen artists. Starts off with Måns Zelmerlow and ends with Anton Ewald.

Eric Saade on stage!

Shockingly enough, Eric Saade is on stage ready to perform “Manboy” on the piano, wearing a black suit! An amazing piano version, as a countdown for the end of the voting process. He moves on performing a slightly different version of “Popular” with lots of wind instruments. Next up is his song “Sting“! It would be a surprise if he didn’t perform his last year’s Melodifestivalen entry, “Every Minute”. He never fails to amaze us with his stage presence and his moves. Oscar interviews Eric for a while, then Eric takes place as an interviewer in the green room, interviewing the virtual direct qualifier Danne Stråhed!

The second voting round

Before the end of the second voting round and the announcement of the virtual second direct qualifier and the two qualifiers of the fifth semi-final, we’ve got a break that shows older contestants of Sweden in Eurovision, such as ABBA and also other contestants of Melodifestivalen. The two spokespersons are two, Muppet Show style cartoon figures.

Now it is the time Oscar announces the time that the revelation of the second voting results will be announced per viewer age-band. Within this voting round, SVT displays the distribution of the votes within the different viewer age-bands in real-time, which practically keeps the viewers engaged throughout the show and up until the final results are announced.

  • Virtual winner of the age-band 3-9 years old is: Cornelia Jakobs!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 10-15 years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 16-29 years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 30-44 years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 45-59 years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 60-74 years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the age-band 75+ years old is: Shirley Clamp!
  • Virtual winner of the televoting is: Malou Prytz!

Virtual direct qualifiers

  • First voting round winner (absolute votes): Danne Stråhed
  • Second voting round winner (age-band votes): Shirley Clamp

Virtual qualifiers at the fifth semi-final (age-band votes)

  • First qualifier: Cornelia Jakobs
  • Second qualifier: Theoz

My prediction is that we will get to see Robin Bengtsson in the finals. Second direct qualifier could be either of Malou Prytz, Omar Rudberg, or maybe Cornelia Jakobs which would be a nice surprise to see her qualify!

Let’s see what is going to happen, tomorrow 20:00 CET we will get to watch the actual semi final live, on SVT or SVT Play and of course EurovisionFun, where you will have the chance to be informed about the results, as soon as they are announced on TV!

Which two of today’s competing artists do you think will be the direct qualifiers to the finals, on the 12th of March?

Stay tuned at Eurovisionfun, for all the latest developments regarding Melodifestivalen 2022 and the Swedish entry for Eurovision 2022!

Source: SVT
Photo: Annika Berglund/SVT

Sweden: Listen to the song snippets of the first semi-final of Melodifestivalen 2022!

As usual, a couple of days before each Melodifestivalen semi-final, SVT publishes snippets of all seven competing songs of the semi-final. A while ago, the song snippets of the first semi-final got released.

The Swedish national selection process starts off the forthcoming Saturday, February the 5th! The first semi final of the national selection process of Sweden, will take place at The Avicii Arena in Stockholm, which is the largest hemispherical building in the world.

The competing songs:

1. Malou Prytz – “BananasLISTEN HERE

Malou Prytz appears first on stage, performing the up-tempo song “Bananas”! Her performance looks nothing like her older participations at the contest. The song is of high energy with lots of pop-rock elements. She looks quite comfortable on stage, but it seems like it won’t be an easy task for her to place high in the finals.

2. Theoz – “Som du villLISTEN HERE

THEOZ, one of the biggest Swedish young influencers, competes at Melodifestivalen for the first time, with a Swedish pop song! His performance is great, he’s got stage presence, lots of changes in the camera shots, but the song will probably not be one of those that will stand out, this Saturday!

3. Shirley Clamp – “Let There Be AngelsLISTEN HERE

Big return for Shirley Clamp! She is on stage all alone, performing “Let there be Angels” with a minimal staging that relies on the lighting and her amazing vocals!

4. Omar Rudberg – “Moving Like ThatLISTEN HERE

After his massive hit Netflix series “Young Royals”, Omar Rudberg returns for another time at Melodifestivalen with the song “Moving Like That”! A latin pop song with an intense choreography, makes it an easy job for Omar to stand out in this semi-final!

5. Danne Stråhed – “HallabalooLISTEN HERE

Next up on stage, Danne Stråhed, with his six-member-band performing “Hallabaloo”! A song that will certainly appeal to the older age-bands of viewers, but will most likely struggle to secure a place for the finals!

6. Cornelia Jakobs – “Hold Me CloserLISTEN HERE

“Hold Me Closer” is performed by Cornelia Jakobs! The song starts off sounding like a ballad but gradually fills up with electronic and rock sounds and ends up epic sounding! The staging is also minimal and focuses entirely on Cornelia and we have to admit that her vocals are impeccable!

7. Robin Bengtsson – “Innocent LoveLISTEN HERE

Last rehearsal for today, the one of Robin Bengtsson with “Innocent Love”! This year’s attempt reminds nothing of his previous two. This time he is competing with an easy listening pop song, which is uptempo at the same time, maybe a bit close to the songs we usually get to listen by Ed Sheeran or Coldplay! He will most probably qualify but it is unknown if we’re gonna see him in Turin this year!

The lyrics of the songs were published on Wednesday February 2nd, which you can read in more detail, in our corresponding article.

The process

Two songs will directly qualify to the grand final of Melodifestivalen 2022, which will take place on the 12th of March. The songs that will place third and fourth will have to compete again, at the fifth semi-final, held on the 5th of March. There will be four semi-finals in total.

Oscar Zia will present the Melodifestivalen 2022, while due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the shows for the national selection process that will represent Sweden in Turin this year, will be held exclusively in Stockholm!

Melodifestivalen 2022 finals will he held on the 12th of March, when we will get to know who will be selected as a representative for Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest in Turin!

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi-Final on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi-Final on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi-Final on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi-Final on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi-Final on the 5th of March
  • The Final on the 12th of March

Which two of the above artists do you think will be the direct qualifiers to the finals, on the 12th of March?

Stay tuned at Eurovisionfun, for all the latest developments regarding Melodifestivalen 2022 and the Swedish entry for Eurovision 2022!

Source: SVT
Photo: Annika Berglund/SVT

Sweden: The lyrics of the songs competing at the first semi-final of Melodifestivalen 2022!

Melodifestivalen 2022 starts the forthcoming Saturday, February the 5th! The first semi final of the national selection process of Sweden, will take place at The Avicii Arena in Stockholm, which is the largest hemispherical building in the world.

A while ago, SVT, the Swedish national broadcaster released the lyrics of all seven competing songs, of the first semi-final, but also the first photos from the rehearsals.

You can read the lyrics of the first semi-final songs below:

1. Malou Prytz – “Bananas” (Writers: Alice Gernandt, Jimmy “Joker” Thörnfeldt, Joy Deb, Linnea Deb)

I should be growing up
But I’m lazy
(Too lazy)
I should be falling in love and calling you baby
(That’s crazy)

There’s so many things that I should do
No matter how I try to be like you

Oh lord
Be good tonight
Cuz today I’m doing nothing right

I go bananas
Bananas
I don’t do stress
But nevertheless
I go bananas

B A N A nas
Bananas!

I should be working out
But it’s heavy
(And sweaty)
I should be following rules
But I break ‘em
(Who needs ‘em)

There’s so many things that I should do
But tonight I’m doing me not you

Oh lord
Be good tonight
Cuz today I’m doing nothing right

I go bananas
Bananas
I don’t do stress
But nevertheless
I go bananas

B A N A nas
Bananas!

Oh lord
Be good tonight
Cuz today I’m doing nothing right

Oh lord
Be good tonight
Cuz today I’m doing nothing right

What?

I go bananas
Bananas

So many things I should do
But tonight I’m doing me not you
Oh lord be good tonight
I’m bananas I’m bananas

I go bananas
Bananas

I don’t do stress
But nevertheless
I go bananas

B A N A nas
Bananas!

B A N A nas
Bananas!

2. Theoz – “Som du vill” (Writers: Tobias Lundgren, Axel Schylström, Tim Larsson, Elize Ryd, Jimmy “Joker” Thörnfeldt)

Jag är inte farlig
Även om det bränns
Vill du följa med mig
Du vet ju hur det känns

Får du kalla fötter
Gör det ingenting
Allting kommer vända
När du gör som du vill

Kom förbi i förbifarten
Gör nånting som gör mig vaken
Ta hissen upp till taket över stan

Om du fryser ta min jacka jag är ändå varm
Ta med den hem så jag kan följa efter den
För jag kan inte lämna dig ifred

Som du vill
Sättet som du för dig
Blir galen när du rör dig
Jag vill ha dig tätt intill
Som du vill
Baby du är festen
Jag kan inte få nog av dig när du gör som du vill

När du gör som du vill
Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill

När du gör som du vill
Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill

Du skulle bara våga
Lämna mig såhär
Resten utav livet
Är allting jag begär

Kom förbi i förbifarten
Gör nånting som gör mig vaken
Ta hissen upp till taket över stan

Om du fryser ta min jacka jag är ändå varm
Ta med den hеm så jag kan följa efter den
För jag kan intе lämna dig ifred

Som du vill
Sättet som du för dig
Blir galen när du rör dig
Jag vill ha dig tätt intill

Som du vill
Baby du är festen
Jag kan inte få nog av dig när du gör som du vill
När du gör som du vill Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill
När du gör som du vill Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill

Åh
Åhhh …
Jag älskar dig när du gör som du vill

Som du vill
Sättet som du för dig
Blir galen när du rör dig
Jag vill ha dig tätt intill

Som du vill
Baby du är festen
Jag kan inte få nog av dig när du gör som du vill

När du gör som du vill
Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill

När du gör som du vill
Som du vill
Som du vill
När du gör som du vill

3. Shirley Clamp – “Let There Be Angels” (Writers: Mats Tärnfors, Pelle Nylén, Shirley Clamp, Jakob Skarin )

Here we are
In a world forever changing
Torn and scarred
We are We are

Never ever let another pessimist drag you down
Don’t you see there are miracles all around

Let there be angels
Let there be stars across the sky
Let there be angels
Never give up, never give in
Turning the pages
We got a chance to make things right

Cause all that glitters is gold

Day by day
When you think there’s only darkness
So betrayed
We are We are

Don’t tell me that our chances are next to none
I still believe the impossible can be done

Let there be angels
Let there be stars across the sky
Let there be angels
Never give up, never give in
Turning the pages

We got a chance to make things right

Cause all that glitters is gold

Try to see some good in everything
So we really can start anew
Cause I still believe the fairytales
Can all come true

Let there be angels
Let there be stars across the sky
Let there be angels
Never give up, never give in
Turning the pages
We got a chance to make things right

Cause all that glitters
All that glitters is gold

4. Omar Rudberg – “Moving Like That” (Writers: Omar Rudberg, Gustav Blomberg, Amanda Kongshaug, Kristin Marie)

Got your number ready on my phone
Counted way too many reasons not to call
But it’s late and I’ve been out for a while
I don’t wanna be alone for the night
When I saw you you were dancing on your own

Oh I know you’re really not a good idea
Oh, but I can’t
No I can’t

I can’t help myself
When you do it like that
Oh when do it like that
Can’t help myself
When you moving like that
Oh When you moving like that
Can’t help myself
When you looking like that

Making me go crazy for your love
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that

Yellow painted gold down on the floor
Can’t deny that you looked better than before

Oh I know you’re really not a good idea Oh But I can’t
No I can’t

I can’t help myself
When you do it like that
Oh when do it like that
Can’t help myself
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that
Can’t help myself
When you looking like that

Making me go crazy for your love
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that

Oh
Se que tu no eres una buena idea
(Oh) Yeah

I can’t help myself
When you do it like that
Oh when you do it like that
Can’t help myself
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that
Can’t help myself
When you looking like that
Making me go crazy for your love
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that

(When you move, when you move, when you move
When you move like that)

When you looking like that
Making me go crazy for your love
When you moving like that
Oh when you moving like that

5. Danne Stråhed – “Hallabaloo” (Writers: Danne Stråhed, Fredrik Andersson, Erik Stenhammar)

Ja när jag fyllde 17
Då sa bror min till mig
Följ med mig ut på villande vägarna
Följ med mig ut och visa din grej

Åh jag fick spela för syster och bror
Och jag fick sjunga mina do-di-li-do
När folk dom dansa i gyllene skor
Det är mitt liv, det är Hallabaloo

Oh oh Ha ha Hallabaloo
Oh la la la la lallaballoo
Kom o kom o sjung med mig
Ha ha Hallabaloo

Ja många vill studera
Och göra karriär
Och andra dom tränar hästar
Dom mockar skit och blir miljonär

Men jag vill spela för syster och bror
Och jag fick sjunga mina do-di-li-do
När folk dom dansa i gyllene skor
Det är mitt liv, det är Hallabaloo

Oh oh Ha ha Hallabaloo
Oh la la la la lallaballoo
Kom o kom o sjung med mig
Ha ha Hallabaloo

Allting kan du göra
Allting här i vår värld
Ja du kan till och med flyga
Prova själv om vingarna bär

Men jag vill spela för syster och bror
Och jag vill sjunga mina do-di-li-do-di-li-do
När folk dom dansar i gyllene skor
Det är mitt liv, det är Hallabaloo

Jag vill bara spela för syster och bror
Och jag fick sjunga mina do-di-li-do
När folk dom dansar i gyllene skor
Det är mitt liv, det är Hallabaloo

Det är mitt liv, det är Hallabaloo
Oh oh Ha ha Hallabaloo
Oh la la la la lallaballoo
Kom o kom o sjung med mig
Ha ha Hallabaloo

6. Cornelia Jakobs – “Hold Me Closer” (Writers: Isa Molin, David Zandén, Cornelia Jakobsdotter)

No need to apologize
Cuz there’s nothing to regret
Well this is not what I wanted
Guess all the good things come to an end

So baby bye bye
Wish you the best
But most of alI I wish that I could love you less

Well maybe you’re right
I’ll find someone else
You say it isn’t me but when did that ever help

Hold me closer
Although you’ll leave before the sunrise
Might be bleeding, but don’t you mind, I’ll be fine
Oh it kills me
I found the right one at the wrong time
But until the sunrise
Hold tight
Hold tight

Maybe it happened too fast
I guess that I understand
You say that you’ve never felt this way for anyone
And that’s why it scares you to death

So baby bye bye
Know it’s for the best
Still I can’t see how that would ease the pain in my chest

Hold me closer
Although you’ll leave before the sunrise
I’ll be bleeding but don’t you mind I’ll be fine
Oh it kills me
I found the right one at the wrong time But until the sunrise

Could you just hold me tight
I know I have to let go but just give me the night

Cuz tomorrow will hurt
Hurt really bad
Cuz I’m about to lose the best I ever had

Hold me closer
Although you’ll leave before the sunrise
I’ll be bleeding but don’t you mind I’ll be fine
Oh it kills me
I found the right one at the wrong time
But until the sunrise

Could you just hold me tight
I know I have to let go but just give me the night

Can’t you see that you found the right one at the wrong time
It was just the wrong time
Hold tight
Hold tight

7. Robin Bengtsson – “Innocent Love” (Writers: David Lindgren Zacharias, Victor Sjöström, Victor Crone, Viktor Broberg, Sebastian Atas)

(Want that innocent love
Want that innocent love)

Woke up
I got a feelin
Won’t stop
I still believe in
Innocent love
Want that
Innocent love

Get lost
You and me dreamin
Tonight
We hit the ceiling
Innocent love
Want that innocent love

So hold up
Hold up
See the stars and the moonlight
Don’t let it pass us by
We got the world in our hands
Baby shaking it off
Like

Ohoh
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you
We don’t have to complicate it
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean With you
I want that Innocent lovе
Want that Innocent love
We got thе world in our hands
Baby shaking it off
Like

You are
My kind and of
Season
I am
Hooked on a feeling
Innocent love
I want that Innocent love

So hold up
Hold up
See the stars and the moonlight
Don’t let it pass us by
We got the world in our hands
Baby shaking it off
Like

Ohoh
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you
We don’t have to complicate it
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you

We got the world in our hands now
Nothing here can bring us down
Wanna learn how to live

Ohoh
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you
We don’t have to complicate it
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you

Ohoh
That innocent love
I want that innocent love
We got the world in our hands
Baby shaking it off
Like

Ohoh
I just wanna stay in this moment
Take a little sip of the ocean
With you

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi-Final on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi-Final on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi-Final on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi-Final on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi-Final on the 5th of March
  • The Final on the 12th of March

Oscar Zia will present the Melodifestivalen 2022, while due to the outbreak of COVID-19, the shows for the national selection process that will represent Sweden in Turin this year, will be held exclusively in Stockholm!

Melodifestivalen 2022 finals will he held on the 12th of March, when we will get to know who will be selected as a representative for Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest in Turin!

See you on Thursday, when we will get the chance to listen to the one-minute snippets, of the seven songs of the first semi final, for the first time.

Source/Photo: SVT

Sweden: Melodifestivalen 2022 tour is cancelled – All shows to be held in Stockholm!

The rapidly spreading Omicron COVID19 variant and all the latest measures imposed by governments in most countries around the world could not leave Eurovision related events unaffected.

Thus, a few minutes ago, after SVT has gone into several crisis meetings in order to come to a decision, they announced from their official Melodifestivalen accounts on all social media, that the whole selection process of all the semi-finals and the grand final will exclusively be held in Stockholm.

This decision contradicts what SVT has originally planned, for the selection process to return to their usual tours this year.

All six shows will be crowded, as it seems, according to the Swedish health authorities’ guidelines for indoor gatherings.

The show

This means that the previously scheduled shows in Malmö, Göteborg, Linköping, Lidköping, Örnsköldsvik are cancelled and they’re all going to take place in the Swedish capital. Until now, there is no information whether the scheduled dates for Melodifestivalen 2022 are affected as well.

1st Semi Final – 5th of February, in Malmö

  1. Malou Prytz – Bananas
  2. THEOZ – Som du vill
  3. Shirley Clamp – Let There Be Angels
  4. Omar Rudberg – Moving Like That
  5. Danne Stråhed – Hallaballoo
  6. Cornelia Jacobs – Hold Me Closer
  7. Robin Bengtsson – Innocent Love

2nd Semi Final – 12th of February, in Gothenburg

  1. LIAMOO – Bluffin
  2. Niello & Lisa Ajax – Tror du att jag bryr mig
  3. Samira Manners – I Want To Be Loved
  4. Alvaro Estrella – Suave
  5. Browsing Collection – Face In The Crowd
  6. John Lundvik – Änglavakt
  7. Tone Sekelius – My Way

3rd Semi Final – 19th of February, in Linköping

  1. Cazzi Opeia – I Can’t Get Enough
  2. Lancelot – Lyckligt slut
  3. Lisa Miskovsky – Best To come
  4. Tribe Friday – Shut Me Up
  5. Faith Kakembo – Freedom
  6. Linda Bengtzing – Fyrfaldigt hurra!
  7. Anders Bagge – Bigger Than The Universe

4th Semi Final – 26th of February, in Lidköping

  1. Anna Bergendahl – Higher Power
  2. Lillasyster – Till Our Days Are Over
  3. Malin Christin – Synd om dig
  4. Tenori – La Stella
  5. MEDINA – In i dimman
  6. Angelino – The End
  7. Klara Hammarström – Run To The Hills

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi on the 5th of March
  • The Finals on the 12th of March

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments related to the Swedish national selection for Eurovision 2022!

Source: instagram.com/melodifestivalen

Sweden: Running order and semi-final allocation for Melodifestivalen 2022 revealed!

The the running order as well as contestant allocation for the semi-finals of Melodifestivalen 2022 was just revealed by SVT!

The running order is determined, each year, by the production team of Melodifestivalen, taking into consideration both the competing songs’ musical qualities as well as stage performance and other production considerations and can be read below:

1st Semi Final – 5th of February, in Malmö

  1. Malou Prytz – Bananas
  2. THEOZ – Som du vill
  3. Shirley Clamp – Let There Be Angels
  4. Omar Rudberg – Moving Like That
  5. Danne Stråhed – Hallaballoo
  6. Cornelia Jacobs – Hold Me Closer
  7. Robin Bengtsson – Innocent Love

2nd Semi Final – 12th of February, in Gothenburg

  1. LIAMOO – Bluffin
  2. Niello & Lisa Ajax – Tror du att jag bryr mig
  3. Samira Manners – I Want To Be Loved
  4. Alvaro Estrella – Suave
  5. Browsing Collection – Face In The Crowd
  6. John Lundvik – Änglavakt
  7. Tone Sekelius – My Way

3rd Semi Final – 19th of February, in Linköping

  1. Cazzi Opeia – I Can’t Get Enough
  2. Lancelot – Lyckligt slut
  3. Lisa Miskovsky – Best To come
  4. Tribe Friday – Shut Me Up
  5. Faith Kakembo – Freedom
  6. Linda Bengtzing – Fyrfaldigt hurra!
  7. Anders Bagge – Bigger Than The Universe

4th Semi Final – 26th of February, in Lidköping

  1. Anna Bergendahl – Higher Power
  2. Lillasyster – Till Our Days Are Over
  3. Malin Christin – Synd om dig
  4. Tenori – La Stella
  5. MEDINA – In i dimman
  6. Angelino – The End
  7. Klara Hammarström – Run To The Hills

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi on the 5th of March
  • The Finals on the 12th of March

Oscar Zia will present Melodifestivalen 2022. The Semi-Finals will follow the touring concept once more (after the coronavirus outbreak), as usual, with the finals being held at Friends Arena! With the opening of the contest in Malmö, Saturday February the 5th, Melodifestivalen will be held in Göteborg, Linköping, Lidköping, Örnsköldsvik and then in Stockholm.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments related to the Swedish national selection for Eurovision 2022!

Sweden: Tomorrow semi-final allocation and running order for Melodifestivalen 2022 to be revealed by SVT!

It’s the final countdown!

Just a few minutes ago, the Swedish public broadcaster SVT, posted an announcement on their official Twitter account for Melodifestivalen, stating that tomorrow morning at 09:00 Greek time (08:00 CET) the allocation of all contestants to the semi-finals and their running order will finally be revealed!

https://twitter.com/SVTmelfest/status/1470414288795877377?s=20

The 28 contestants

We remind you that the line-up of the 28 contestants that will compete, in hopes of representing Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest 2022 are the following:

  • Anders Bagge – Bigger Than The Universe
  • Cazzi Opeia – I Can’t Get Enough
  • Omar Rudberg – Moving Like That
  • Klara Hammarström – Run To The Hills
  • Tribe Friday – Shut Me Up
  • John Lundvik – Änglavakt
  • Cornelia Jacobs – Hold Me Closer
  • Niello & Lisa Ajax
  • Faith Kakembo – Freedom
  • LIAMOO – Bluffin
  • Linda Bengtzing – Fyrfaldigt hurra!
  • Samira Manners – I Want To Be Loved
  • Danne Stråhed – Hallaballoo
  • THEOZ – Som du vill
  • Malou Prytz – Bananas
  • Lisa Miskovsky – Best To come
  • Browsing Collection – Face In The Crowd
  • Anna Bergendahl – Higher Power
  • MEDINA – In i dimman
  • Robin Bengtsson – Innocent Love
  • Tenori – La Stella
  • Shirley Clamp – Let There Be Angels
  • Lancelot – Lyckligt slut
  • Tone Sekelius – My Way
  • Alvaro Estrella – Suave
  • Malin Christin – Synd om dig
  • Angelino – The End
  • Lillasyster – Till Our Days Are Over

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi on the 5th of March
  • The Finals on the 12th of March

Oscar Zia will present Melodifestivalen 2022. The Semi-Finals will follow the touring concept once more (after the coronavirus outbreak), as usual, with the finals being held at Friends Arena! With the opening of the contest in Malmö, Saturday February the 5th, Melodifestivalen will be held in Göteborg, Linköping, Lidköping, Örnsköldsvik and then in Stockholm.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments related to the Swedish national selection for Eurovision 2022!

Sweden: Final line-up of 28 Melodifestivalen 2022 contestants, just announced!

After SVT revealed the first 14 contestants of Melodifestivalen 2022 on Friday November the 26th, today “it’s time to face the music”!

The final announcement has been made prematurely (names are leaked in the official Melodifestivalen app) and you can now flick through the list of the full line-up of the 28 contestants of Melodifestivalen 2022! Are you ready?

The 28 contestants anounced by SVT are the following

Anders Bagge
Song: Bigger Than The Universe
Songwriters: Anders Bagge, Jimmy Jansson, Peter Boström, Thomas G:son

There are very few people in Sweden who do not know Anders, he is one of the most popular TV personas and composers in the country.

The Swedish Idol judge has collaborated with international artists such as Jennifer Lopez, Madonna, Celine Dion, Janet Jackson, Santana and Enrique Iglesias.

He also wrote the Azerbaijani entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2012, When The Music Dies by Sabina Babayeva.

 

Cazzi Opeia
Song: I Can’t Get Enough
Songwriters: Bishat Araya, Jakob Redtzer, Cazzi Opeia, Paul Rey

Cazzi Opeia has become one of the most sought after K-pop composers, with many hits on US Billboard and collaborations with global superstars such as BTS, Red Velvet, NCT 127 and Enhypen.

As a songwriter, Cazzi has sold more than 20 million physical albums and has over 4 billion streams and more than 1.5 billion views on YouTube.

 

Omar Rudberg
omar rudberg

Song: Moving Like That
Songwriters: Omar Rudberg, Gustav Blomberg, Amanda Kongshaug, Kristin Marie

Omar is an artist, songwriter and actor and a former member of  the most successful Scandinavian boy-band: FO&O.

As one of the stars of the successful Netflix series, Young Royals, he has established himself as an idol at a younger audience and has since then become (one could say) a global star.

This is Omar’s third entry in the Melodifestivalen.

 

Klara Hammarström
klara hammarstrom

Song: Run To The Hills
Songwriters: Jimmy ‘Joker’ Thörnfeldt, Julie Aagaard, Anderz Wrethov, Klara Hammarström

Klara Hammarström became known to the public through the SVT reality show “Familjen Hammarström”, which was all about her successful family.

Having participated in both 2020 and 2021, Klara Hammarström has a unique consecutive hat-trick at Melodifestivalen.

 

Tribe Friday
Song: Shut Me Up
Songwriters: Isak Gunnarsson, Robin Hanberger Pérez, Noah Deutschmann

With their signature mix of indie rock, dance-pop and emo, Tribe Friday from their debut already have a devoted global fan-base.

The band describes itself as three “emo-losers” from three different Swedish small towns who share the dream of becoming the biggest band in the world.

 

John Lundvik
john lundvik

Song: Änglavakt
Songwriters: Anderz Wrethov, Elin Wrethov, Benjamin Rosenbohm, Fredrik Sonefors, John Lundvik

No introductions needed! Fifth place in Tel Aviv in 2019 with Too Late For Love here! Also one of the composers, Benjamin Rosenbohm, is a member of Ben & Tan from Denmark, who won the Melodi Grand Prix 2020, but eventually never represented Denmark due to the cancellation of the competition that year.

 

Cornelia Jacobs
Song: Hold Me Closer
Songwriters: Isa Molin, David Zandén, Cornelia Jakobsdotter

Cornelia Jakobs has been involved in music since she was seven years old. At school she started playing in various garage-rock bands and her love for playing live remains undiminished.

An artist with a musical vision and creativity, she has done almost everything in the last five years, releasing 9 singles and an upcoming debut album

 

Niello & Lisa Ajax
Song: Tror du att jag bryr mig
Songwriters: Yvonne Dahlbom, Niklas ‘Niello’ Grahn Linroth, Jesper Welander

Niello and Lisa will be appearing together for the first time in Mellodifestivalen, but have already collaborated last summer on the song Ingen annan.

Niello started off in 2013 with the release of his song Legenden, while Lisa Ajax became widely known through Idol.

 

Faith Kakembo
faith kakembo

Song: Freedom
Songwriters: Laurell Barker, Anderz Wrethov, Palle Hammarlund, Faith Kakembo

The lovely nurse from Jönköping who participated in the talent show P4 Nästa in 2019.

She then met hitmaker Jörgen Elofsson who gave her the song Crying Rivers, which she performed at Melodifestivalen 2020. Faith Kakembo finished fifth in the third semifinal.

 

LIAMOO
liamoo
Song: Bluffin
Songwriters: Jimmy ‘Joker’ Thörnfeldt, Sami Rekik, Dino Medanhodzic, Ali Jammali

LIAMOO won the Swedes’ heads and hearts, back in 2016, when he won Idol, showing off his skills as both a singer and a rapper.

In 2018, LIAMOO participated in the Melodifestivalen with the song Last Breath in which he also co-composed and in 2019 with the duet, Hold You, together with Hanna Ferm, finishing in third place.

 

Linda Bengtzing
Linda Bengtzing
Song: Fyrfaldigt hurra!
Songwriter: Thomas G:son, Linda Bengtzing, Myra Granberg, Daniel Jelldéus

In addition to her past seven participations in Melodifestivalen and her 8th next year in 2022s revision of Melodifestivalen, Linda has starred in a number of TV shows and musicals, acquiring amazing reviews, including a nomination for Best Actress for her role as Mimi Marquez on RENT.

 

Samira Manners
Song: I Want To Be Loved
Songwriters: Samira Manners, Fredrik Andersson

Samira Manners is 21 years old and she’s performing and writing music from a very young age. The singer-songwriter is focused on her feelings and experiences while composing new music and her dream is to share her experiences with the broad audiences through her songs.

 

Danne Stråhed
Song: Hallaballoo
Songwriters: Danne Stråhed, Fredrik Andersson, Erik Stenhammar

Danne Stråhed has been a member of various bands since the mid-1970s and, as a member of the band Chinox, had connections with the then relatively unknown band AC/DC.

His musical roots are in Swedish folk music, with essences of South American and Caribbean vibes. His music, which is inspired by Scandi/Cajun sounds, has a strong appeal in audiences in Sweden.

 

THEOZ
Song: Som du vill
Songwriters: Tobias Lundgren, Axel Schylström, Tim Larsson, Elize Ryd, Jimmy ‘Joker’ Thörnfeldt

THEOZ is one of Sweden’s most famous influencers with over two million followers on all their social networks.

He started his career in 2018, at the age of just twelve, with the song Het. The music video for this song became the most popular one of the year in Sweden.

 

Malou Prytz
Malou Prytz
Song: Bananas
Songwriters: Alice Gernandt, Jimmy “Joker” Thörnfeldt, Joy Deb, Linnea Deb

Malou participated successfully for the first time in Melodifestivalen when she was only 15 years old in 2018, with the song I Do Me qualifying for the finals, also gaining multiple streams on Spotify and great success on the radio. She returned two years later with the song Ballerina, rendering her appearance in 2022 her third participation in the national contest.

 

Lisa Miskovsky
Lisa Miskovsky
Song: Best To come
Songwriters: Lisa Miskovsky, David Lindgren Zacharias

Lisa is one of Sweden’s most highly acclaimed artists and composers, having sold over 200,000 albums and having already won 2 Grammys.

Nature has always meant a lot to Lisa and it is said that she draws a lot of energy from the land of Västerbotten.

 

Browsing Collection
Song: Face In The Crowd
Songwriters: Carolina Karlsson, Mimi Brander, Moa Lenngren, Nora Lenngren, Sandra Bjurman, Jimmy Wahlsteen

This punk rock band with metal influences, is known for their intense-energy concerts and massive participation of the crowds.

 

Anna Bergendahl
Anna Bergendahl
Song: Higher Power
Songwriters: Anna Bergendahl, Thomas G:son, Bobby Ljunggren, Erik Bernholm

Anna returns to the scene of the crime for the fourth time, after representing Sweden in 2010 with This Is My Life at the age of 19, Ashes To Ashes in 2019 and Kingdom Come in 2020. Everyone should know her by now!

 

MEDINA
Song: In i dimman
Songwriters: Jimmy ”Joker” Thörnfeldt, Sami Rekik, Dino Medanhodzic, Ali Jammali

MEDINA is one of the most successful and beloved hip hop duos, of the 00s. Their participation in Melodifestivalen is one of their first live performances together, after their split up 5 years ago.

 

Robin Bengtsson
Robin Bengtsson
Song: Innocent Love
Songwriters: David Lindgren Zacharias, Victor Sjöström, Victor  Crone, Viktor Broberg, Sebastian Atas

His fourth appearance at Melodifestivalen, in the hopes to represent Sweden once again after his success in Kiev in 2017 with the song I Can’t Go On. This year with a strong composing team for his song and Victor Crone being one of the bunch!

 

Tenori
Song: La Stella
Songwriters: Dan Sundquist, Kristian Lagerström, Marcos Ubeda, Bobby Ljunggren, Sarah Börjesson Wassberg

Tenori consists of two quite respectable tenors of the opera scene: Alexander Grove and Kalle Leander. By participating in Melodifestivalen, they adding up more spice to their classical repertoire.

 

Shirley Clamp
Song: Let There Be Angels
Songwriters: Mats Tärnfors, Pelle Nylén, Shirley Clamp, Jakob Skarin

Shirley Clamp, Melodifestivalen legend with six entries in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2009, 2011 and 2014 and after the presentation of the second chance for this year’s Swedish national selection process, returns to the competition for the seventh time.

 

Lancelot
Song: Lyckligt slut
Songwriters: Lancelot Hedman, Niklas Carson Mattsson

Lancelot songs could be called ‘heartfelt’ songs, exploring the emotional rollercoaster one can experience in their life. Love, betrayal and self-examination are the ‘trademarks’ of this artist.

 

Tone Sekelius
Song: My Way
Songwriters: Anderz Wrethov, Tone Sekelius

Tone is one of the most famous YouTubers in Sweden! She shares stories of her everyday life at home in Stockholm with the 300,000 subscribers of her channel.

He composed and performed One More In The Crowd, the official anthem of Stockholm Pride 2017.

 

Alvaro Estrella
Alvaro Estrella
Song: Suave
Songwriters: Linnea Deb, Jimmy ”Joker” Thörnfeldt, Joy Deb, Alvaro Estrella

Alvaro, who is a singer, dancer and composer at the same time is well known to Melodifestivalen fans. In addition to being a former dancer of artists such as Danny Saucedo, Eric Saade and Måns Zelmerlöw, he has also competed himself twice in the Swedish national selection process. Last year’s Baila Baila became one of the most successful and commercial songs of the season!

 

Malin Christin
Song: Synd om dig
Songwriters: Jonathan Lavotha, Oliver Heinänen, Malin Christin

Malin is an experienced artist, having worked as a composer with both Swedish and international artists. Once she started composing for herself, she established a signature style somewhere between modern Swedish pop and alternative RnB.

 

Angelino
Song: The End
Songwriters: Angelino Markenhorn, Julie Aagaard, Melanie Wehbe, Thomas Steengaard

Angelino has mentioned:

In times like these, it is very important to find new ways to share joy, sorrow or pain. Music has never been more important, or payed more of a social benefit, than now.

 

Lillasyster
Song: Till Our Days Are Over
Songwriters: Jimmy Jansson, Palle Hammarlund, Ian-Paolo Lira, Martin Westerstrand

After the success of Pretender in 2021, where the rockers from Gothenburg reached the second chance, Lillasyster is ready to return in 2022.

The detailed schedule of Melodifestivalen 2022 is described below:

  • First Semi on the 5th of February
  • Second Semi on the 12th of February
  • Third Semi on the 19th of Februrary
  • Fourth Semi on the 26th of February
  • Fifth Semi on the 5th of March
  • The Finals on the 12th of March

Oscar Zia will present Melodifestivalen 2022. The Semi-Finals will follow the touring concept once more (after the coronavirus outbreak), as usual, with the finals being held at Friends Arena! With the opening of the contest in Malmö, Saturday February the 5th, Melodifestivalen will be held in Göteborg, Linköping, Lidköping, Örnsköldsvik and then in Stockholm.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments related to the Swedish national selection for Eurovision 2022!