Madonna, 60, leaves Eurovision fans ‘disappointed’ with her ‘tone deaf’ vocals during high-octane show… as her dancers sport Israeli and Palestinian flags WITHOUT approval
- The Queen of Pop took to the stage to perform 1989 hit Like a Prayer and her new single Future at the 64th Eurovision Song Contest
- Singer Madonna left fans and celebrity watchers ‘disappointed’ with her ‘tone deaf’ vocals and reliance on autotune
- Organisers said a section of the performance, during which dancers wore Israeli and Palestinian flags on the backs of their outfits, was not an approved part of the act
- Madonna had previously been criticized by musicians and pro-Palestinian activists from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign, who called on her to cancel the show
- In a statement this week, the award-winning singer said she wanted to use her show to create ‘a new path toward peace’
- Holland triumphed the song competition – while Britain’s Michael Rice finished bottom of the pile on just 16 points
Madonna left Eurovision fans disappointed on Saturday night as she performed 1989 hit Like a Prayer at the 64th Song Contest, which saw Holland triumph at the competition at the Tel Aviv Fairgrounds in Israel.
The highly-anticipated performance, which saw the Queen Of Pop, 60, appear at the top of a flight of steps, dressed in a cape and hood while wearing a metal breastplate, left fans and celebrity watchers less than impressed with her ‘tone deaf’ vocals and reliance on autotune.
Organisers also said a section of the musician’s performance, during which dancers wore Israeli and Palestinian flags on the backs of their outfits, was not an approved part of the act.
Disappointed: Madonna left Eurovision fans disappointed on Saturday night as she performed 1989 hit Like a Prayer at the 64th Song Contest, which saw Holland triumph at the competition at the Tel Aviv Fairgrounds in Israel
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Eurovision said: ‘In the live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final, two of Madonna’s dancers briefly displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags on the back of their outfits.
‘This element of the performance was not part of the rehearsals which had been cleared with the EBU and the host broadcaster, KAN.
‘The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political event and Madonna had been made aware of this.’
Controversy: Organisers also said a section of the musician’s performance, during which dancers wore Israeli and Palestinian flags on the backs of their outfits, was not an approved part of the act
A 35-strong choir and 30 dancers dressed as monks accompanied the superstar as she sang her 1989 hit Like a Prayer on its 30th anniversary.
Madonna appeared at the top of a flight of steps, dressed in a cape and hood and wearing a metal breastplate. Brandishing a cross, she stepped slowly towards the crowd and sung Like A Prayer to raucous applause.
As the song reached it climax, her dancers pulled their hoods aside to reveal gas masks adorned with flowers.
Support: While Madonna’s controversial performance trended on Twitter, and divided plenty opinions, there were still plenty of fans who stood by the pop icon’s performance
In costume: The award-winning musician appeared at the top of a flight of steps, dressed in a cape, hood and wearing a metal breastplate
She then performed new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X.
But her highly-anticipated and controversial performance was slammed online and she was accused of being out of tune as she took to the stage following a four-year hiatus.
Madonna had previously been criticized by musicians and pro-Palestinian activists from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign, who called on her to cancel the show.
But in a statement this week, Madonna said she wanted to use her performance to create ‘a new path toward peace’ and would not be cowed by political pressure.
Rap: Captivating the crowd, she then performed new song Future with Migos rapper Quavo from her upcoming 14th album Madame X
Earlier in the night she appeared in a pre-recorded message, warning the public ‘not underestimate the power of music to bring people together’.
She said: ‘You’re all winners, no matter what happens. The reason I mean that is because to get here, where you are right now, is not easy. Right?
‘First you had a dream and then you had to believe in that dream, and you had to make many sacrifices. That makes you a winner no matter what.
Controversy: Her highly-anticipated and controversial performance had drawn criticism from musicians and pro-Palestinian activists from the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions campaign, who called on her to cancel the show
‘Another really obvious statement is, look at all the delegates behind us, everyone here is from all over the world. So many countries that I have been privileged not just to visit but to experience.
‘And the one thing that brings me to those countries, and the thing that brings all these people here tonight, is music.
‘So let’s not underestimate the power of music to bring people together. That’s the most important thing. Music makes the people come together.’
Taking a dig: Piers Morgan led the unimpressed show watchers as he tweeted out: ‘RIP Madonna’s career’
Piers Morgan led the unimpressed show watchers as he tweeted: ‘RIP Madonna’s career.’
Even Eurovision presenter, Graham Norton, appeared to make a cheeky dig after she performed, as he said: ‘A slightly muted response to Madonna in the hall I would say…’
While earlier on in the evening, talking about her decorative eye-patch, he quipped: ‘Madonna, what a trooper, still showing up despite a nasty case of conjunctivitis. What a showbiz professional.’
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Not happy: Plenty of other viewers also shared in Piers and Graham’s opinion, as one fan tweeted: ‘I’ve never been more disappointed #Madonna #Eurovision’
Plenty of other viewers also shared in Piers and Graham’s opinion, as one fan tweeted: ‘I’ve never been more disappointed #Madonna #Eurovision’.
A different account tweeted: ‘Was actually kind of disappointed by Madonna #Eurovision.’
Another show watchers commented: ‘That wasn’t great by Madonna.’
A different fan put: ‘Wow in a disappointed way! I love Madonna but well just hmmm #Eurovision.’
While another person added: ‘Oh Madonna – I’m not angry – just disappointed #Eurovision.’
While Madonna’s controversial performance trended on Twitter, and divided plenty opinions, there were still plenty of fans who stood by the pop icon’s performance.
Amazing! One person wrote in defence: ‘I actually don’t care what anyone says about Madonna, she’s amazing’
Still my queen: ‘I’m sorry but Madonna is still my queen regardless of that performance,’ another show watcher commented
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One person wrote in defence: ‘I actually don’t care what anyone says about Madonna, she’s amazing.’
A different account chimed in: ‘All this criticism of Madonna by people who have never made it compared to her success. You write a song and sing it over and let’s see if anyone buys it.’
Another person said: ‘idk what ppl are on abt, madonna’s performance was amazing (sic).’
Drama: As voting across Europe was underway, Madonna took to the stage to perform her 1989 hit Like a Prayer accompanied by a 35-strong choir and 30 dancers dressed as monks
While a different account tweeted: ‘I’m sorry but Madonna is still my queen regardless of that performance.’
Elsewhere in the show, UK viewers praised presenter Graham Norton’s catty commentary for his ‘British sarcasm’ – after he compared the Albanian contestant’s dress to a Christmas tree.
Holland triumphed the song competition – while Britain’s Michael Rice finished bottom of the pile on just 16 points.
Duncan Laurence, 25, won with 492 points. He was named the Eurovision front-runner shortly after releasing his anthemic piano ballad Arcade in March and remained the bookies’ favourite ever since.
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Britain’s Michael Rice comes LAST in Eurovision as the former X Factor contestant scores just 16 points while Netherlands win song contest in Israel amid political controversy
Britain came last in the Eurovision Song Contest last night, with former X Factor contestant Michael Rice scoring just 16 points, as the Netherlands triumphed amid political controversy at the event in Israel.
The oh-so-glamorous and famously kitschy finale gave Israel a chance to showcase its credentials as a culturally progressive nation, but politics lurked in the background as pro-Palestinian activists called for a boycott.
The extravaganza passed off largely politics-free, though two incidents temporarily drew attention away from the songs and toward Israel’s conflict with the Palestinians.
Local media showed images of two of Madonna’s dancers side-by-side with Israeli and Palestinian flags on their backs during her performance in an apparent call for unity. It was not clear whether the singer was aware of the flags during her routine.
Icelandic group Hatari meanwhile displayed scarfs with Palestinian flags when results were being announced.
The European Broadcasting Union, which organises the event, condemned both displays.
Duncan Laurence, 25, of the Netherlands reacts after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night, where Britain came last
Pictured: Laurence on stage performing his anthemic piano ballad. He released the song in March and remained the bookies’ favourite ever since
Madonna performs during a guest appearance at the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel. Viewers slammed her as ‘tone deaf’ and criticised her use of autotune
Kate Miller-Heidke, representing Australia, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds in Israel last night
Madonna (pictured on stage at the 64th Eurovision Song Contest last night) was criticised over her performance of Like a Prayer in Tel Aviv
Pictured: Madonna takes to the stage in a performance that was marred by criticism as viewers derided her as tone deaf. The singer had already faced anger over her decision to appear at the final in Israel
Madonna (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv last night) performed her 1989 hit Like A Prayer before premiering her new song, Future, with Migos Rapper Quavo
Pictured: Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands holds up the trophy after winning the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night
Duncan Laurence, 25, (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv, Israel) topped to competition last night, with Britain finishing last
The Netherlands were the bookmakers’ favourite going into Saturday’s Eurovision song contest finals, and emerged triumphant in Tel Aviv as Duncan Laurence (pictured on stage last night) came in first
In a statement this week, Madonna (pictured on stage last night at Eurovision) said she wanted to use her performance to create ‘a new path toward peace’ and would not be cowed by political pressure after pro-Palestinian activists criticised her for appearing at the contest in Israel
Pictured: Madonna’s backing dancers display the flags of Israel and Palestine. Eurovision has now confirmed they were not an approved part of the show and Madonna has ‘been made aware’ the event is supposed to be ‘non-political’
Eurovision is supposed to be ‘non-political’ however the build-up was been marred by controversy and calls for a boycott by pro-Palestinian activists due to it being held in Tel Aviv. Madonna (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance
As Madonna performed her new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X, the pair stood in front of a screen that said ‘Wake Up’
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Israel won the right to host the extravaganza thanks to last year’s victory by Israeli singer Netta Barzilai, who opened the show on Saturday night at a Tel Aviv concert hall.
After performances by all 26 finalists, Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands took the prize with the stirring power ballad ‘Arcade’. He released the anthemic piano ballad in March and remained the bookies’ favourite ever since.
Laurence, 25, came out as bisexual in 2016 and has used his new high profile to call for tolerance.
Italy finished second and Russia third in the results that combined votes from juries from participating countries as well as viewers at home.
With ‘Arcade’, Laurence, whose real name is Duncan de Moor, sings of a romantic break-up with the refrain ‘loving you is a losing game’.
‘I think the most important thing of course is to stick to how you are … stick to what you love, even if you have a different sexuality,’ he told journalists after the show.
Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte said on Twitter that he had spoken to Laurence and congratulated him, calling his performance ‘sublime and powerful’.
The UK finished last for the first time since 2010 as Rice scored just 16 points with his power ballad Bigger Than Us.
Eurovision results in full
1. The Netherlands (Duncan Laurence with Arcade) – 492
2. Italy (Mahmood with Soldi) – 465
3. Russia (Sergey Lazarev with Scream) – 369
4. Switzerland (Luca Hanni with She Got Me) – 360
5. Norway (KEiiNO with Spirit In The Sky) – 338
6. Sweden (John Lundvik with Too Late For Love) -332
7. Azerbaijan (Chingiz with Truth) – 297
8. North Macedonia (Tamara Todevska with Proud) – 295
9. Australia (Kate Miller-Heidke with Zero Gravity) – 285
10. Iceland (Hatari with Hatrio Mun Sigra) – 234
11. Czech Republic (Lake Malawi with Friend Of A Friend) – 157
12. Denmark (Leonora with Love Is Forever) – 120
13. Slovenia (Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl with Sebi) – 105
14. France (Bilal Hassani with Roi) – 105
15. Cyprus (Tamta with Replay) – 101
16. Malta (Michela Pace with Chameleon) – 95
17. Serbia (Nevena Bozovic with Kruna) – 92
18. Albania (Jonida Maliqi with Ktheju Tokes) – 90
19. Estonia (Victor Crone with Storm) – 86
20. San Marino (Serhat with Say Na Na Na) – 81
21. Greece (Katerine Duska with Better Love) – 71
22. Spain (Miki with La Venda) – 60
23. Israel (Kobi Marimi with Home) – 47
24. Germany (S!sters with Sister) – 32
25. Belarus (Zena with Like It) – 31
26. United Kingdom (Michael Rice with Bigger Than Us) – 16
Rice, from Hartlepool, had earlier expressed a wish to improve the UK’s reputation at the contest. This is despite the UK not entering the top 10 in a decade.
Madonna’s performance was marred by criticism as viewers slammed her ‘tone deaf’ vocals and reliance on autotune.
The Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement led calls for a boycott of this year’s Eurovision over Israel’s decades-long occupation of Palestinian territories.
In a statement carried by US media ahead of the finals, Madonna said: ‘I’ll never stop playing music to suit someone’s political agenda nor will I stop speaking out against violations of human rights wherever in the world they may be.’
Organisers said a section of Madonna’s performance, during which dancers wore Israeli and Palestinian flags on the backs of their outfits, was not an approved part of the act.
Eurovision said: ‘In the live broadcast of the Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final, two of Madonna’s dancers briefly displayed the Israeli and Palestinian flags on the back of their outfits.
‘This element of the performance was not part of the rehearsals which had been cleared with the EBU and the host broadcaster, KAN.
‘The Eurovision Song Contest is a non-political event and Madonna had been made aware of this.’
A 35-strong choir and 30 dancers dressed as monks accompanied the Queen of Pop as she sang her 1989 hit Like a Prayer on its 30th anniversary at the Expo venue in Tel Aviv last night.
Madonna appeared at the top of a flight of steps, dressed in a cape and hood and wearing a metal breastplate.
Brandishing a cross, she stepped slowly towards the crowd and sung Like A Prayer to raucous applause.
As the song reached it climax, her dancers pulled their hoods aside to reveal gas masks adorned with flowers.
The 60-year-old star then performed new song Future with Migos Rapper Quavo, which appears on her upcoming 14th album Madame X.
Earlier in the night she appeared in a pre-recorded message, warning the public ‘not underestimate the power of music to bring people together’.
She said: ‘You’re all winners, no matter what happens. The reason I mean that is because to get here, where you are right now, is not easy. Right?
‘First you had a dream and then you had to believe in that dream, and you had to make many sacrifices. That makes you a winner no matter what.
‘Another really obvious statement is, look at all the delegates behind us, everyone here is from all over the world. So many countries that I have been privileged not just to visit but to experience.
‘And the one thing that brings me to those countries, and the thing that brings all these people here tonight, is music.
‘So let’s not underestimate the power of music to bring people together. That’s the most important thing. Music makes the people come together.’
Britain’s 21-year-old Eurovision entry Michael Rice took to the stage in Tel Aviv, hoping to turn around the UK’s fortunes and bring the crown back to Britain for the first time in 22 years.
He was joined by an outfit of backing vocalists dressed in white as he broke into the song’s gospel-influenced chorus.
UK viewers praised presenter Graham Norton’s catty commentary for his ‘British sarcasm’ – after he compared the Albanian contestant’s dress to a Christmas tree.
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The 60-year-old singer (pictured on stage at Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) faced criticism for her performance. Her decision to appear at the contest came under fire amid tensions in the Middle East
Madonna and Quavo perform their new song – Future – in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest, at which Britain came in last
Madonna was accompanied by a 35-strong choir and dancers dressed as monks as she performed live on stage after the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds
Madonna (pictured after her performance) sang her 1989 hit ‘Like a Prayer’ accompanied by a 35-strong choir at the grand final of the 64th Eurovision song contest in Tel Aviv
Madonna told Eurovision’s host she believes music brings everyone together and that all the Eurovision contestants are winners by simply participating
Madonna (pictured at the 64th Eurovision in Tel Aviv last night) performed her classic hit Like a Prayer and displayed Israeli and Palestinian flags during her performance
UK ENTRY MICHAEL RICE FINISHES LAST AT THE EUROVISION SONG CONTEST
The UK has been snubbed at the Eurovision Song Contest – coming last for the first time since 2010.
Michael Rice scored just 16 points between the public vote and international jury vote on a night when The Netherlands’ Duncan Laurence won the crown with his song Arcade, scoring 492 points.
Hartlepool native Rice sang Bigger Than Us at the Expo Tel Aviv venue in Israel against a backdrop of a starry night sky and racing comets. But his performance failed to soar and did not connect with the international crowd.
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Despite the disappointment on the night, Rice remained upbeat and said he had enjoyed his Eurovision experience.
He said: ‘The main thing I wanted to do was come and sing my heart out and make my country proud. I’m so thankful to the fans who have supported me and the song, as well as my whole team who have supported me throughout this whole amazing journey.
‘I’ve been able to travel and meet amazing artists from across Europe and beyond. I can’t wait to see what’s next for me and get back into the studio and bring you some new music soon. And of course congratulations to Duncan – he was amazing!’
The public votes made up 50% of the total vote, with the other half determined by the professional jury in each participating country.
Gold glitter rained from the roof as Laurence’s name was called out before the 25-year-old lifted the trophy, handed to him by last year’s winner, Israeli singer Netta Barzilai.
He said: ‘Oh god, this is to music first. Thank you, thank you.’
Rice, who rose to fame after winning the singing show All Together Now last year, said previously that he hoped to improve the UK’s reputation at the contest.
The UK has not won Eurovision in 22 years or finished in the top 10 in the past decade. Prospects of a British victory were bleak – both Coral and Ladbrokes gave Rice a 150/1 chance of taking the title. He performed 16th, after Norway and before Iceland – whose techno-punk outfit Hatari were a favourite to win.
Michael Rice (pictured on stage in Tel Aviv, Israel, last night) performed the song ‘Bigger Than Us’ as he represented Great Britain and finished in last place
The former X-Factor contestant (pictured on stage at Eurovision last night) from Hartlepool was one of 26 acts vying for the top prize during the climax of the week-long contest but finished last
Michael Rice, 21, representing Great Britain, performs the song ‘Bigger Than Us’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Israel last night
Michael Rice is pictured performing Bigger Than Us on stage at the 64th Eurovision song contest were he wound up finishing in last place
Participant Hatari of Iceland performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv on May 18
Participant Hatari of Iceland performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv
Participant ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel May 18
Participant ZENA of Belarus performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel May 18
This year’s show kicked off with an Olympic-style flag parade to introduce the finalists and featured a performance by a cohort of the musical extravaganza’s former stars.
Israel’s Netta Barzilia and Dana International – both previous winners – were joined by Swedish champion Mans Zelmerlow for a performance of Omer Adam’s song Tel Aviv, during which the 26 contestants were introduced before taking their seats to one side of the stage.
The finalists perform for the international public vote, which will make up 50% of the total vote, with the other half determined by a professional jury in each participating country, who cast their votes during performances on Friday.
However the jury vote from Belarus was not counted in the final score on Saturday evening because the country’s officials broke the rules by revealing who they had voted for during Thursday’s semi-final.
The chair of the Belarussian jury Valeri Prigun, said on Tuesday that the jury voted ‘almost unanimously’ and that he favoured Estonia, Czech Republic and Georgia.
Other members said gave their highest marks to Australia. Belarus’ own entry – 16-year-old Zena came one place above the UK – second from bottom.
As per one of Eurovision’s most famous quirks, fans can vote up to 20 times but will be unable to select their own country’s entry.
The UK’s Michael Rice performed 16th, after Norway but before Iceland, whose techno-punk outfit Hatari had been among the favourites to win.
Iceland’s Eurovision contestants Hatari perform the song ‘Hatrio mun sigra’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Icelandic ‘bondage band’ Hatari defied Eurovision bosses with a shock political song predicting the ‘collapse of the continent’
The German duo sung from the tip of a catwalk reaching into the audience as sparks poured from the roof. They received the loudest cheer of the night so far
Australia’s Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song ‘Zero Gravity’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Spain’s Miki performs the song ‘La Venda’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Participant John Lundvik of Sweden performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel May 18, 2019
Participant Kate Miller-Heidke of Australia performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv
Madonna performed her 1989 hit ‘Like a Prayer’, accompanied by a 35-strong choir, and the world premiere of the song ‘Future’ from her forthcoming album
Sisters of Germany perform the song ‘Sister’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Third in front of the audience was energetic three-piece boyband Lake Malawi with their pop-rock song Friend Of A Friend
Previous winners from Israel Netta Barzilai (left) and Dana International (right) perform before the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Participant Serhat of San Marino performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv, Israel May 18
Estonia’s Victor Crone performs the song ‘Storm’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Tamara Todevska of North Macedonia (left) and Jonida Maliqi of Albania perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Israeli singer Netta Barzilai, winner of the 2018 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv
Israeli singer Dana International, winner of the 1998 Eurovision, performs during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Eurovision hosts from left, Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli, and Erez Tal walk onto the stage for the start of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest
Participant Michela of Malta kicked off the Grand Final of the Eurovision song contest tonight with her performance of Chameleon
Bilal Hassani of France, center, performs the song ‘Roi’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Michaela of Malta performs performs the song ‘Chameleon’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
The running order is decided by the European Broadcasting Union, Eurovision’s governing body, and is designed to ensure each act has the opportunity to stand out
UK fans can vote over the phone, by text or via the Eurovision app, available on iOS, Android and Windows devices. Shortly before the contest got underway, Foreign Secretary Jeremy Hunt tweeted a good luck message to Michael.
He wrote: ‘Best of luck to @MichaelRiceOff and all the UK team in Tel Aviv tonight! We are leaving the EU but Eurovision lives on in the glorious footsteps of Bucks Fizz.’
Malta’s Michela Pace opened the show with her song Chameleon, dancing in front of shifting graphics showing an urban landscape.
Second was Albania’s Jonida Maliqi with Ktheju Tokes – or ‘Return To Your Land’ – a dramatic and slow-paced track with lyrics referencing the Kosovo War.
Third in front of the audience was three-piece boyband Lake Malawi with their pop-rock song Friend Of A Friend. The performance saw the group, from the Czech Republic, jumping around the stage.
Up next were the German duo S!ster with their aptly named song, Sister (although the two are not actually related).
The pair sung from the tip of a catwalk reaching into the audience as sparks poured from the roof. They received the loudest cheer of the night so far.
The first real contender of the night took to the stage fifth – Russia’s Sergey Lazarev who returns to the contest with the song Scream. Lazarev competed for Russia in 2016 when he finished third with the song You Are The Only One.
NETHERLANDS’ EUROVISION CHAMPION ESCHEWED PRODUCTION FOR SOUL
This year’s Eurovision Song Contest winner eschewed pyrotechnics and complex staging in favour of a tried and tested formula: a well-crafted song performed with great emotion.
Duncan Laurence’s anthemic ballad Arcade won over the voting public and the international juries, securing 492 points.
The singer-songwriter and former contestant on The Voice Of Holland, 25, secured his nation its first Eurovision title since 1975, ensuring the contest will be held in the Netherlands next year.
Laurence was named front runner shortly after releasing the track – his debut effort as a musician – in March and remained the bookmakers’ favourite during the contest.
Some cast doubt on whether the stripped-back staging of just him, a piano and projections would connect with an international audience watching at home.
But those doubts turned out to be unfounded when he raced through Thursday’s semi-final and into Saturday night’s grand final.
Laurence started his musical career at the Rock Academy in Tilburg, Netherlands, graduating in 2017.
He participated in the fifth season of The Voice Of Holland and was coached by Ilse DeLange, before going on to pen the song Closer for K-pop duo TVXQ in 2018.
Earlier in the week he told the Press Association he thought he could win if he refused to compromise over his performance.
Asked why he thought he had been named front runner, he said: ‘It’s because I didn’t change a thing.
‘I didn’t want to change anything for Eurovision. I just wanted the song to be the song – as it was originally written. You should never rush it or change things.
‘The committee really went for the song as it is. I only wanted to participate if I could do my own song – Arcade – in the state as it is or was back then.’
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Tamta of Cyprus performs the song ‘Replay’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song ‘Arcade’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Jean-Paul Gaultier (left) and supermodel Bar Refaeli during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds on May 18
North Macedonia’s Tamara Todevska performs the song ‘Proud’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Slovenia’s Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song ‘Sebi’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song ‘She Got Me’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Hosts Assi Azar, Lucy Ayoub, Bar Refaeli and Erez Tall on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds
Australia’s Kate Miller-Heidke performs the song ‘Zero Gravity’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Participant Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest
San Marino’s Serhat performs the song ‘Say Na Na Na’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019
Denmark’s Leonora performs the song ‘Love is Forever’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18
Duncan Laurence of the Netherlands performs the song ‘Arcade’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Greece’s Katerine Duska performs the song ‘Better Love’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl of Slovenia perform the song ‘Sebi’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Denmark’s Leonora delivered a solid rendition of Love Is Forever, a song reminiscent of the music of Lily Allen, replete with plucked strings and tinkling bells.
San Marino’s Serhat then performed the song ‘Say Na Na Na’ – followed by Tamara Todevska for North Macedonia who sang ‘Proud’.
Swedish entrant John Lundvik’s gospel-tinged pop song Too Late For Love secured screams from the audience. Lundvik is also behind Bigger Than Us, the song UK entrant Michael Rice performed later on.
Sweden were followed by Slovenia with Zala Kralj & Gašper Šantl singing Sebi, and Cyprus’ Tamta singing Replay. Cyprus came second with Fuego by Eleni Foureira last year.
The ultimate winner – Holland’s Duncan Laurence – then took to the stage with the piano ballad Arcade.
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Nevena Bozovic of Serbia performs the song ‘Kruna’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18,
Katerine Duska of Greece performs the song ‘Better Love’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Norway’s KEiiNO perform the song ‘Spirit in the Sky’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Italy’s Mahmood performs the song ‘Soldi’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019
Kobi Marimi of Israel performs the song ‘Home’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Slovenia’s Zala Kralj and Gasper Santl perform the song ‘Sebi’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city.
Greece’s Katerine Duska performs the song ‘Better Love’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019
The first half of the evening was brought to a close by Greece, with Katerine Duska singing Better Love.
Israel’s Kobi Marimi was the first act of the second half. He delivered an emotive rendition of the classically-influenced song Home to a receptive crowd. Israeli flags could be seen across the audience as Marimi sung on home soil, making his way to the tip of the catwalk to perform from the crowd.
Next up was Norway, with Keiino singing the uplifting duet Spirit In The Sky.
Britain’s Michael Rice performed 16th, singing ‘Bigger Than Us’. His performance received a warm reaction from UK fans.
Presenter Rylan Clark-Neal tweeted ‘he was amazing’, while former Eurovision winner Cheryl Baker posted: ‘Proud of ya, @MichaelRiceOff !!! You were effing fabulous!’
Jayde Adams, a comedian who co-hosts a BBC Eurovision podcast with Scott Mills, tweeted: ‘I’m sat with Michael’s Nan and Mum and we’re all in tears of joy! YES MICHAEL!!!!!!! You’ve done the UK proud!!!!’
Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song ‘Bigger Than Us’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv
Contestant Bilal Hassani (left) of France performs ‘Roi’ during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest
Bilal Hassani of France, right, performs the song ‘Roi’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Switzerland’s Luca Hanni performs the song ‘She Got Me’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18
Mahmood of Italy (left) and Nevena Božović of Serbia perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Italy’s Mahmood performs the song ‘Soldi’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Katerine Duska representing Greece, performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds on May 18
Ireland’s Sarah McTernan, who was knocked out in the semi-final, posted a picture on Instagram of herself with Michael Rice. She wrote: ‘Supporting my main man tonight love you loads!!! @itsmichaelrice- I please pick up your phones and vote!!!! He deserves the world. or download the app and vote!!’
Iceland’s controversial steampunk band Hatari – performing 17th – concluded their live performance without incident.
The band had drawn attention in Israel by initially vowing to stay out, saying it would be ‘absurd’ to participate in Israel because of its policies toward the Palestinians.
Later, they vowed to use the Eurovision spotlight to expose the ‘face of the occupation.’ But at a press conference after the semifinal, Hatari offered a purely positive message. ‘We need to unite and remember to love,’ it said, in the wake of ‘hate that’s on the rise in Europe.’
In this evening’s final they belted out their grinding metal rock to cheers from the audience.
Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song ‘Bigger Than Us’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019.
Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song ‘Truth’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18,
Serbia’s Nevena Bozovic performs the song ‘Kruna’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv
Tom Hugo Hermansen of KEiiNO, representing Norway , performs live on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds on May 18
Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song ‘She Got Me’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18
Spain’s Miki performs the song ‘La Venda’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019
Luca Hanni of Switzerland performs the song ‘She Got Me’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest
Contestant Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs ‘Truth’ during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) at the Expo Tel Aviv, in Tel Aviv
Next up was Estonia, with Victor Crone singing Storm, then Belarus’ 16-year-old contestant Zena belted out her anthem Like It.
Azerbaijan followed, with Chingiz singing Truth before it was time for France’s Bilal Hassani singing Roi in a mixture of French and English.
Italy’s Mahmood began the final run of five acts with a rendition of his song Soldi. The singer-songwriter has suffered a reported throat infection this week but delivered a vocally competent performance to raucous cheers from the crowd.
Serbia’s Nevena Bozovic followed with Kruna, which translates as The Crown, a soulful ballad which drew a positive response from the crowd.
Former winner of the Eurovision Song Contest, Austria’s Conchita Wurst performs during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
After came Australia’s Kate Miller-Heidke, whose rendition of Zero Gravity, a song about her experience of postnatal depression, saw her flying through the air atop a pole, and was received with a roar.
Last came Spain’s Miki, who offered a vivid counterpoint to Miller-Heidke’s musical theatre-inspired performance with an energetic rendition of the poppy La Venda.
While the voting process got underway, four former Eurovision contestants sang a medley of each other’s songs.
Austria’s Conchita Wurst, who won in 2014 with Rise Like A Phoenix, sang Mans Zelmerlow’s Heroes, which won the Swede the 2015 event.
Zelmerlow then performed Fuego, which earned Greece’s Eleni Foureira second place behind Netta’s Toy in 2018.
Foureira then took on Verka Serduchka’s Dancing Lasha Tumbai, which won the eccentric Ukrainian character actor the contest in 2007. Finally, Serduchka sang Netta’s Toy, which won Israel the right to host the event during last year’s contest in Lisbon, Portugal.
Two semi-finals, numerous dress rehearsals and a week of press and audience events have led to this point – and it hasn’t been without controversy.
Michael Rice of Great Britain performs the song ‘Bigger Than Us’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Serbia’s Nevena Bozovic performs the song ‘Kruna’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Participants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest
Leonora of Denmark performs the song ‘Love Is Forever’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18
Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song ‘Truth’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs the song ‘Ktheju tokes’, a dramatic and slow-paced track with lyrics referencing the Kosovo War
Jonida Maliqi of Albania performs during the Grand Final of the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest in Tel Aviv
Contestants Lake Malawi of Czech Republic perform ‘Friend of a Friend’ during the Grand Final of the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest
Germany’s S!sters perform the song ‘Sister’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019
Sisters of Germany perform during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
Sergey Lazarev of Russia performs the song ‘Scream’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 201
John Lundvik of Sweden performs the song ‘Too Late For Love’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel
Germany’s S!sters perform the song ‘Sister’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18
Icelandic ‘bondage band’ Hatari defied Eurovision bosses with a shock political song predicting the ‘collapse of the continent’.
The controversial troupe, who describe themselves as a techno-BDSM-punk fusion, anti-capitalist group, hope their song will promote ‘peace and love’. And warn that if we do not pursue it, ‘hate will indeed prevail’.
And, in a populism warning, have stressed in the lyrics of their song that ‘debauchery unconstrained’ will lead to moral bankruptcy and the collapse of Europe.
The group has even come close to expulsion from the contest due to their outspoken views on Israel – having spoken of witnessing apartheid after travelling to the country.
Serhat representing San Marino, arrives on stage during the 64th annual Eurovision Song Contest held at Tel Aviv Fairgrounds
Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song ‘Truth’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
San Marino’s Serhat performs the song ‘Say Na Na Na’ during the Grand Final of the 64th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest 2019 at Expo Tel Aviv on May 18, 2019, in the Israeli coastal city
Chingiz of Azerbaijan performs the song ‘Truth’ during the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest grand final in Tel Aviv, Israel, Saturday, May 18, 2019
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Their song flies in the face of competition rules, which stress it is a non-political event. And stipulate that ‘no organization, institution, political cause or other cause’ should be promoted.
Matthias Tryggvi Haraldsson, 25, the lead singer of Hatari – or ‘Haters’ – said of their song: ‘Hate Will Prevail is a reflection on power and powerlessness, hope and hopelessness.
‘It’s a warning about what will happen if we don’t love each other, if we give up on peace and unity, because then hate will indeed prevail. And we feel these are relevant themes to the context of this year’s contest.’
Their performance has even stirred up controversy in their home country, which was the first in western Europe to recognise Palestine as a state, in 2011. A petition urging them to boycott the completion was signed by at least 20,000 people.
But Eurovision bosses have tried to keep them on track, with Haraldsson revealing they have ‘made it very clear that we have stepped over the line and reached the limit of their tolerance.’
He promised to stay clear of ‘buzzwords’ like apartheid that prick the ears of producers and will use their performance as ‘a platform to uphold a critical discussion about the context of this year’s contest’.
The controversy came amidst security concerns surrounding the competition, after the Israeli national broadcaster’s webcast of the semi-final in Tel Aviv was hacked with images of explosions over the city.
And earlier this week it was revealed how Israel had reportedly deployed its Iron Dome defence system ahead of the song competition. Despite last Monday, Israel and Hamas agreeing to a ceasefire following a ferocious missile exchange which saw nearly 700 rockets fired across the border.
Despite the ongoing controversy, Michael Rice, a former X Factor contestant, had hoped to bring the Eurovision crown back to Britain for the first time in 22 years.
Despite the even bigger than usual media craze around the competition, he insisted: ‘I’ve got my game face on, and I’m ready to go out and give the best performance.’
And speaking to the BBC, he added: ‘We aren’t a popular country in Europe. Everything is against us. But if we sent a decent song we’d do okay.’
The Eurovision song contest is set to get underway in Tel Aviv later this week under controversial circumstances
Rabin Square in the centre of Tel Aviv with a stage set up ahead of the song contest later this week
Earlier this week it was revealed how Israel had reportedly deployed its Iron Dome defence system (pictured) ahead of the song competition
Rice performed for the expert jury panels on Friday night during a non-televised dress rehearsal of the grand final.
He, unlike the Icelandic entry, insisted that: ‘We should be focusing on the music and getting the right song instead of droning on about stuff like that.’
The ‘stuff’ the 21-year-old from Hartlepool was referring to is politics. He added that he’s ‘sick of being asked about Brexit, constantly all the time’.
‘I’m just a singer; I’ve never even thought about politics,’ he added.
Rice got a by-pass to Saturday’s final, being the face of one of the ‘big five’ nations but faces stiff competition in the firm favourites, the Netherlands.
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