Posts

Belgian Minister of Culture and Media Calls for Israel’s Exclusion from Eurovision Contest

/0 Comments/in , , /by

In a plenary session of the Parliament of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation, Bénédicte Linard, Vice-President of the Ecolo party and Minister of Culture and Media, expressed her views on Wednesday regarding Israel’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest. She was questioned by Alice Bernard, the leader of the PTB group, who advocated for Israel’s exclusion from the contest due to the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Bernard asked the minister about the actions she could take to mobilize against Israel’s participation in Eurovision.

In response, Bénédicte Linard highlighted the intolerable events in Gaza, where dozens of children, women, and men are dying every day, and famine is looming. Drawing a parallel with Russia’s exclusion from sporting events and Eurovision after the invasion of Ukraine, Linard stated that it is unacceptable for Israel to participate in Eurovision in May in Malmö, Sweden. She personally believes that Israel should be excluded from Eurovision until it ceases its flagrant violations of international law in Gaza. Linard intends to write to RTBF, Belgium’s national broadcaster, urging them to support this position within the European Broadcasting Union.

However, it remains unclear whether Linard’s position is supported by the government of the Wallonia-Brussels Federation. Minister-President Pierre-Yves Jeholet declined to comment, stating that it is Linard’s personal opinion.

Within the European Broadcasting Union, both RTBF and VRT represent Belgium. Benjamin Dalle, the Flemish Minister responsible for VRT, shared his perspective, expressing support for suspending Israel’s participation in Eurovision as long as civilian casualties continue to mount. Dalle believes that Israel’s presence at a culturally significant event like Eurovision is incompatible with the ongoing conflict.

As of now, RTBF has not issued a response, awaiting official communication from Minister Linard. Additionally, decisions regarding Israel’s participation in Eurovision are not solely in Belgium’s hands but involve considerations from other member states within the European Broadcasting Union.

Belgium will be represented in the 68th Eurovision Song Contest by Musti with the song “Before The Party’s Over”,

Source: RTBF

Israel: The country will ultimately participate in Eurovision 2024 | On March 10 the reveal of the entry!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Israel Public Television (KAN) continues its preparations on Israel’s entry into this year’s Eurovision Song Contest. The Israeli entry will be revealed on Sunday, March 10, at 21:30, with Eden Golan performing it for the first time.

A change of direction for KAN

In contrast to its earlier statements, Israel Radio and Television announced that it is taking all the required steps in order for Israel to compete in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest after the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) opted to reject the two songs that had placed first in the KAN internal selection on the grounds that the lyrics of the songs do not comply with the competition’s regulations and are of a political nature.

KAN followed the suggestions of Yitzhak Herzog, the country’s president, who spoke to the company’s board and requested that the song lyrics be changed to allow Israel to compete at the Eurovision Song Contest.

It is important for Israel to perform at Eurovision because it is a stage for hundreds of millions of viewers. Sometimes it’s better to be smart than right.

KAN officially announced the change in lyrics for the two songs via social media:

The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation has been working for the past few weeks to take the necessary steps to allow Israel to participate in this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

Despite its disagreement with the position of the EBU, which sought to exclude the two songs submitted by Israel to the Competition on the grounds that they were “political in nature”, KAN took the advice of the country’s president, Yitzhak Herzog, who turned to our board and asked for the necessary adjustments to be made, which will allow Israel to compete on the Eurovision stage.

The President of the country emphasized that at the very moment when our enemies seek to push for the boycott of Israel from every platform – Israel must raise its voice and hold its head high and raise its flag in every world forum, especially this year.

KAN contacted the creators of the two selected songs,“October Rain” which was selected in first place and the song “Dance Forever” which came in second place, and asked them to readjust the lyrics while maintaining full artistic freedom. Based on the new lyrics – KAN will select the song to be sent to the Eurovision supervisory committee to approve Israel’s participation in the Contest.

On Sunday March 10, at 21:30, KAN 11 will broadcast a special show in which the song sent to Eurovision will be revealed and performed by Eden Golan.

We remind you that “October Rain” was written by Stav Bager (from the creators and producers of “Toy”, Eurovision 2018), Avi Ohion, and Keren Pels, the judge of “The Next Star”. “Dance Forever” was written by Ron Beaton, Mai Safdia (“Unicorn”), and Yanon Yahal (“Golden Boy”, Unicorn).

The 37 participating countries of Eurovision 2024 must submit their entries to the EBU by March 11 in order for the competition’s reference group to approve them. This practically means that the EBU can reject the two songs again if it believes there is a political overtone in the lyrics, though based on recent developments, this does not appear likely. KAN states that all necessary measures will be taken to allow Israel to participate.

Germany supports Israel

In its Eurovision 2024 participation, Israel has a strong ally, Germany. Through the country’s Minister of Culture, Germany declares that they support Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2024.

Minister of Culture, Claudia Roth, in an interview with Spiegel mentions:

Jewish artists can no longer perform because the boycott prevents them.

Banning Israel because “October Rain” would convey political content is absurd. I heard the song and think it is very good.

As a dedicated fan of Eurovision for decades we should remember that Dana International supported a free, cosmopolitan and diverse Israel. People who today talk about Hamas as a supposed liberation movement obviously have no idea. It would be a scandal if Israel is excluded.

Hence, March 10 is the release date of Israel’s entry for Eurovision 2024.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: euromix,spiegel

Israel’s Eurovision Dilemma: Second Song Rejected, Hopes Dwindle!

/6 Comments/in , /by

According to sources at the Foreign Ministry, Israel’s alternative option for Eurovision has also been rejected by the European Broadcasting Union. This likely refers to “Dance Forever,” the second song that competed to represent Israel in Eurovision, as reported by Ynet, and was sent in advance for approval. Israel is still trying to find a solution, but those involved in the matter are not optimistic.

The second song sent to the European Broadcasting Union in advance is a collaboration involving Israeli representative Eden Golan, songwriter Ron Biton, musician Yanon Yahel, and singer Maya Spadia.

The Foreign Ministry confirmed to Ynet that the alternative option for Eurovision was rejected. The message was received last night (Tuesday), and it seemingly concerns the second song, “Dance Forever,” sent in advance to the European Broadcasting Union.

Since the exposure by Ynet about the European Broadcasting Union’s intention to disqualify “October Rain,” and the statement by KAN not to change the words or the song, many are trying to find a solution.

President Isaac Herzog stated that he is trying to assist, as well as the Foreign Ministry. Foreign Minister Yair Lapid, responding after Ynet’s revelation, said, “We are allowed to sing about what we have been through.”

The second song sent to the European Broadcasting Union in advance is the joint creation of Israeli representative Eden Golan, songwriter Ron Biton, musician Yanon Yahel, and singer Maya Spadia. It’s worth mentioning that both options reached the final stage of the professional committee’s deliberations – “October Rain” and the unselected second song, “Dance Forever.” Already on the day of Ynet’s exposure, the creators of the second song were informed that they would not participate in Eurovision this year, but since then, the cards have been shuffled.

Israel is still trying to find a solution with the European Broadcasting Union, but those involved in the matter say they are “pessimistic.”

The chorus of the second song, “Dance Forever,” which came to Ynet:

“Dance like an angel
You will remember
I will dance forever
I’ll dance again
Dance like an angel
Tell me the rhythm because my soul is still human
Hope doesn’t stop, it just spreads its wings
It’s like a million stars suddenly lighting up in the sky
(The hope doesn’t stop, it just spreads its wings
It’s like a million stars suddenly lighting up in the sky)
Heart on fire
I’m a fighter
Don’t stop the music
Turn it up louder
I spread out my wings
Flying through the sky
Hear violins
Angels don’t cry
They only sing
Still feel the ground
Beneath my feet
Oh dance like an angel
You will remember
That I will dance forever
I will dance again
Oh dance like an angel
Oh dance like an angel
You will remember
That we will dance forever
We will dance again
Oh
Dance like an angel (we will dance forever)”

Israel will be represented at Eurovision 2024 by Eden Golan, with a song to be announced in the coming weeks. The Israeli delegation this year will limit its appearances to a minimum for security reasons, even avoiding the parade on the turquoise carpet, one week before the competition.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the updates!

Source: Ynet

Israel: The official video of Eden Golan’s entry will be filmed this Thursday!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

Despite the uncertainty regarding Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2024 due to the political undertone in the lyrics of its submitted entry “October Rain“, which is currently examined by the EBU, the preparations for Eurovision 2024 continue as usual.

According to Mako, the filming of Eden Golan’s entry for Eurovision 2024 will take place this Thursday, unless there are last minute changes in the plans of the Israeli delegation.

It is not clear whether the filming of the video clip will include the lyrics that are currently being examined by the EBU with the potential of being rejected or more versions will be filmed. However, considering the high costs of filming, in case the shooting does not get postponed following a potential statement by the EBU, the original lyrics will be included on the video.

The reveal of “October Rain” through a special show

The official reveal of Israel’s entry for Eurovision 2024 will be conducted via a special show on Israeli television, which is expected to air on March 11, the release date of the country’s entry.

During the show’s broadcast, the video clip of “October Rain” will be unveiled, along with Eden Golan’s first live performance of her entry. Moreover, Eden Golan will sing a cover of Noa Kirel’s “Unicorn“, the country’s entry in Eurovision 2023. The aforementioned performance was filmed today.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: mako

Israel: The lyrics from Eden Golan’s song!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

A few hours ago, the lyrics from Eden Golan’s Eurovision 2024 song has been revealed. According to a post on Twitter “October Rain” is mostly written in English, while the last lines are in Hebrew and go as following:

The writers of history

Stand by me

Look into my eyes and you will see

People go but never say goodbye

 

Someone stole the moon tonight

Took my light

Everything is black and white

Who is the fool who told you?

That boys don’t cry

 

Hours and hours and flowers

Life is not a game for cowards

Why does time go crazy?

 

Every day I lose my mind

Clinging to this mysterious journey

Dancing up a storm

We have nothing to hide

Take me home

 

Leave the world behind

And I promise you never again

I’m still wet from the October rain

October rain

 

Live in fantasy

In ecstasy

Everything is meant to be

We will die, but love never will

 

Hours and hours and flowers

Life is not a game for cowards

Why does time go crazy?

 

Every day I lose my mind

Clinging to this mysterious journey

Dancing up a storm

We have nothing to hide

Take me home

 

And leave the world behind

And I promise you never again

I’m still wet from the October rain

October rain

October rain

 

(Αυτό το κομμάτι είναι στα Εβραϊκά)

There is no air left to breathe

There is no place, I am not there day by day

They are all good kids, one by one

 

Based on the same source, the song is a powerful ballad and was chosen by the broadcaster to represent Israel in Eurovision 2024 despite its lyrics being in question, while the other song is a pop-dance. “October Rain’s” lyrics were really controversial in the minds of workers in KAN, with some of them to report that it feels like the broadcaster is willing to get kicked out by EBU. It is noted that in case of a potentional withdrawal, Israel has to pay as a fee around 70.000 euros.

 

Source: Twitter/Eurovision Insider

Israel: The lyrics in question from Eden Golan’s Eurovision 2024 entry!

/5 Comments/in , , /by

According to Israeli media reports in recent days, KAN has decided on “October Rain” as the country’s Eurovision entry for 2024. Given the ongoing situation in the Gaza Strip, protests throughout Europe, and the contest’s regulations, KAN contacted the EBU to determine whether the song’s lyrics are considered political or not.

The song’s lyrics are currently being reviewed by the EBU, with the fear of being disqualified due to the political overtones, which can also be seen in the song’s title.

The lyrics in question

According to Israel Hayom, “October Rain” is mostly written in English, while the last lines are in Hebrew and go as following:

There’s no air left to breathe.

No place, no me from day to day.

Meanwhile, the song ends with this lyric:

They were all good children each one of them.

Not only the finale of the song can be considered political, but also several other lyrics, such as:

Evening. Everything is black and white. Who is the fool. Who told you boys don’t cry. Hours and hours and flowers. Life is not a game for the cowards…

While time goes by. Every day I’m losing my mind, Holding on

It is worth noticing that the world “Flowers” is used among IDF soldiers referring to fallen soldiers in battle.

Israel – in fear of withdrawal

Although, EBU has not made an official decision yet, KAN does not consider changing the song. According to Israeli, “October Rain” is not political, it simply expresses the feelings of the people and the country in these times. Withdrawing will be the only choice for Israel in case “October Rain” is disqualified.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: israelhayom

Estonia: Eurovision judge rejected from Eesti Laul 2024 due to Israeli citizenship!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

A scandal has apparently been created in the Estonian media after an experienced judge been rejected by the jury of Eesti Laul 2024!

More specifically, Alon Amir had received an accepted an invitation to be a member of the Eesti Laul 2024 judging panel, but he was informed ten days before the competition that he had been excluded due to his Israeli citizenship. More specifically, he was informed by phone about the channel’s decision while the Estonian media is making a reason for exercising a veto on anything related to the state of Israel in this sensitive period, since the channel did not want any negative criticism.

Amir, who has been the spokesperson of Israel in 2009, 2012, 2013 και 2016 and also a judge at many national finals, stated:

“It was done not in a malicious way… I understand them. If they bring an Israeli judge, it will cause a mess.

When I received the invitation, I thought to myself that they were very brave to invite an Israeli at a time like this… The lovely production team wanted me, but the Estonian TV management vetoed it because it would bring unwanted attention in their direction. I understand them. I’m upset on a personal level, but I understand the desire to avoid it.”

Surely, Eurovision 2024 is already a controversial year with Israel being among the countries who are participating in the contest.

Stay tuned in EurovisionFun for all the latest updates of Eurovision 2024!

Source: jpost

Israeli Entry in Eurovision 2024 Under Threat as EBU Considers Disqualification!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

After being examined by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU), ynet has learned from European sources that there is concern that the song sent to represent Israel in Eurovision 2024 may be disqualified due to what they claim are political statements. Following these messages, the board of KAN hastily convened and decided:

“We will not change the lyrics or the song, even if it means Israel will not participate in Eurovision this year.”

Concerns Over Israel’s Participation in Eurovision: EBU Contemplates Disqualifying “October’s Rain”

Israeli singer Eden Golan, who was supposed to perform the song “October’s Rain” at the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmo in May, was scheduled to unveil the song last week. However, the decision was postponed by the board for a few more days. ynet learned then that the reason for the delay stemmed from a request by the European Broadcasting Union to receive the song before its release, and to approve its lyrics to ensure there are no political messages. Sources familiar with the details told ynet that this was not an exceptional request for Israel and that it has been a clause in the Eurovision regulations for several years.

However, European sources have now told ynet that the EBU intends to disqualify the song. In response, the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation has stood firm and clarified that it will not change the lyrics – whatever the cost. Following the messages from the EBU about the intention to disqualify the song, the board of the corporation hastily convened and decided,

“We will not change the lyrics or the song, even if it means Israel will not participate in Eurovision this year.”

In an official response to ynet’s revelation, the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation stated:

“The Israeli Broadcasting Corporation is in dialogue with the EBU regarding the song that will represent Israel in Eurovision.”

No response has been provided by the EBU at the time of reporting.

Against the backdrop of these developments, just a week ago, Eurovision organizers officially announced that they had once again postponed the requests to disqualify Israel from the competition, in contrast to the steps taken against Russia following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. “Comparisons between war and conflict are complex, and as a non-political communication organization, this is not the place for us to make them,” said EBU CEO Noel Curran in an interview. He added that the association is aware of the voices calling for Israel’s disqualification but emphasized, “Eurovision is a musical event, not a political one; it’s not a competition between governments.”

As a reminder, the European Broadcasting Union has consistently shown that it does not take a political stance regarding the conflict with Hamas. Additionally, the EBU responded to Israel’s request to participate in the second semi-final of the competition, to be held in Malmo, due to the proximity to Holocaust Remembrance Day and Independence Day.

The controversy surrounding Israel’s entry in Eurovision 2024 underscores the delicate balance between music and politics in the iconic competition. While the European Broadcasting Union maintains that Eurovision is a musical event devoid of political undertones, tensions arise when lyrics are perceived to contain political messages. Israel’s steadfast refusal to alter the song’s lyrics, despite the risk of disqualification, highlights the importance placed on artistic integrity and freedom of expression.

As the dialogue between the Israeli Broadcasting Corporation and the EBU continues, the outcome remains uncertain, leaving Eurovision fans on edge as they await further developments.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: Ynet

 

Italy: Rai Stands with Jewish Community and Israel after Ghali’s statement!

/0 Comments/in , , /by

The 2024 Sanremo Festival finale took an unexpected turn when rapper Ghali used his platform to call for a “stop to genocide.” While his intention might have been to shed light on humanitarian concerns, the aftermath saw a flurry of reactions, highlighting the complexities of political and social discourse within the realm of entertainment.

Roberto Sergio, the managing director of Rai (Radiotelevisione italiana), wasted no time in expressing solidarity with the Jewish community and the people of Israel in the wake of the controversy. In a statement issued promptly after the event, Sergio emphasized, “My solidarity with the people of Israel and the Jewish community is heartfelt and convinced.”

Ghali‘s call for action, however, did not escape scrutiny. Noemi Di Segni, president of the Jewish community of Rome, lamented the missed opportunity for the festival stage to advocate for the release of hostages held by Hamas, criticizing the use of terms that she believed distorted historical realities. She remarked:

“If music and the festival, due to its relevance, is the space for the freedom to express thoughts of love, pain, joy, social denunciations and political contestations, it is regrettable that this stage was not the occasion to launch, likewise, an appeal for the release of the hostages in the hands of Hamas, leaving to unilateralism the legitimacy of distortion, with the use of terms that once again offend the history of our country and all of Europe.“

Israel’s ambassador to Italy, Alon Bar, condemned the exploitation of the Sanremo stage for spreading what he deemed as hatred and provocation. In response, Ghali expressed regret over the ambassador’s reaction, emphasizing the chilling effect of speaking out against war and genocide. He replied:

“I don’t know what to reply, I am so sorry that the ambassador responded in this way. There were so many things to say. This policy of terror continues and people are more and more afraid to say stop war and stop genocide, people feel they lose something if they say long live the peace.”

The controversy extended into the realm of politics, with Maurizio Gasparri of Forza Italia demanding an apology from RAI leadership to Israel. Piero Fassino also weighed in, underscoring the importance of acknowledging the victims of Hamas.

In a mid-afternoon statement, Roberto Sergio reflected on Rai’s coverage of tragic events such as the Shoah and ongoing hostage situations involving Hamas, reaffirming the broadcaster’s commitment to reporting on such issues.

The Sanremo controversy underscores the complex interplay between artistic expression, political discourse, and historical sensitivities, sparking a wider conversation about the responsibilities of public platforms in navigating sensitive topics. As the festival draws to a close, it leaves behind a legacy of introspection and debate, reminding us of the power and pitfalls of words spoken on stage.

Stay tuned to EurovisionFun for all the news!

Source: Domani

Photo Source: ANSA

Israel: The song selection for Eurovision 2024 is coming up!

/1 Comment/in , /by

The committee tasked with selecting Israel’s entry for Eurovision 2024 convened yesterday (Sunday), and dozens of songwriters submitted their songs for consideration, including writers of some of the biggest pop hits in recent years. A decision is expected to be reached by tomorrow. No response has yet been received from the corporation.

The deadline for submitting the song to represent Israel at Eurovision 2024 was yesterday (Sunday). As previously announced, Israel will be represented by Eden Golan, who was chosen in the “The Next Star” final. Committee members began listening to the received songs yesterday.

It is reported that Yoav Tsafir, Tamira Yardeni, and Sion Yang from “Tedy Productions,” who produced “The Next Star,” will be members of the committee, alongside committee chairman Ofri Goffer, as well as individuals from the music field from the corporation’s radio and television programs – “experienced individuals only.”

Dozens of songwriters submitted songs, including leading writers in the country. Among the songwriters who submitted songs are Ofir Cohen (“Am Yisrael Chai,” “Lezat Me’dichaon“), Yoval Maayan (“Mi Zat“), and others. Additionally, it is reported that despite high expectations, Doron Medalie did not submit a song.

At the moment, committee members continue to listen to the songs, and by tomorrow, they are expected to make a decision regarding the song. It is not unlikely that the announcement of the song will take place today if the committee members reach a unanimous decision.

How the song will be chosen

The broadcaster, KAN, has issued an invitation to a wide range of Israeli creators to submit songs for the winner of “HaKokhav Haba” to compete in Eurovision 2024. A key requirement for this year’s submissions is that the songs must include Hebrew lyrics.

At least 30 creators will nominate their songs for the winner of “HaKokhav Haba” and participants are allowed to submit up to two songs each until February 11. All creators must have Israeli citizenship and foreign creators are not allowed to participate. Submitted songs will be presented anonymously to a seven-member selection committee.

The committee will evaluate the songs based on professional criteria, such as the quality and originality of the lyrics and melody, the suitability of the song for the artist, its suitability for the Eurovision contest, the possibility of the song’s success at Eurovision, the suitability of the representation of the broadcaster as public broadcasting, the overall impression left by the song and other relevant criteria.

If the committee does not find a suitable song, it has the option of inviting the general public to submit additional songs, or choose a song published after September 1, or choose a song from other proposals made for Israel’s participation in the Eurovision between 2021 and 2023.

The winning song will be edited, recorded and a music video produced for the song’s unveiling, which is scheduled for a special broadcast in late February or early March.

Below you can see Eden Golan’s performances during the show:

Last year Israel at Eurovision 2023 in Liverpool was represented by the sensational Noa Kirel and her song “Unicorn” which gave the Middle Eastern country the third place in the Grand Final with 362 points.

Stay tuned to Eurovisionfun for all the developments regarding Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2024, in Malmö!

Source: Mako