#27: Orchestras, Synthesizers, and Lulu

Orchestras used to be a requirement at the Eurovision Song Contest. In this episode, we take a look at the evolution of live (and “live”) music at the competition. We’re getting close to having a final-ish guest list for the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest with 40* countries confirming their interest.1 Yes, it’s still a Facebook Maybe at this point and there are still three countries who have been invited but haven’t responded. RETURN OUR CALLS, MOLDOVA. After we check in with the Irish boycott situation and Cher’s foray into Abba’s catalog, we dive into the history of the music of the Eurovision Song Contest. Orchestras used to be a thing for the first 20 years of the competition. Once backing tracks were introduced in the mid-1970s (Hi again, Abba!), it was only a matter of time before Eurovision would catch up with a more modern pop sound.  … I mean, 25 years? We’re now 20 years beyond that revolution and we’re still encountering new sounds that run afoul of Eurovision’s definition of a song. It’s beyond fascinating. Get ready for a teach-in and grab the moment to listen to this episode! Episode Summary * Eurovision guest list (1:19) * MyHeritage sponsorship (4:31) * Eurovision in Asia not a thing (7:07) * The next stage (9:10) * Gimme gimme gimme Cher’s new album (13:19) * This week in boycotts (14:29) * Live music at Eurovision (15:35) Links * Eurovision’s History of Instruments (YouTube) * And the Conductor Is… Subscribe The EuroWhat? Podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Google Play, or your podcast catcher of choice. When you subscribe, feel free to rate and review us. We welcome your feedback and the ratings will help other folks find this podcast. You can also follow us on Twitter @eurowhat, see our photos on Instagram @eurowhat, and like us on Facebook. Comments, questions, and episode topic suggestions are always welcome. We can also be reached by email, if you prefer. * Armenia confirmed after we recorded.  ↵ Armenia confirmed after we recorded.