Douze Points!

Written by http://www.myvideomusicmp3.com/kejsi-tola-me-merr-ne-enderr/song-lyrics-download-listen-watch-music-video/
Updated by Nathan Waddell

Unë jam e jotja çdo ditë që kalon
Unë jam me ty kur larg të kam

Edhe një çast nëse ti më mungon
Unë mbyll dy sytë të ndjej pranë

Asgjë më shumë jo, nga ty nuk kerkoj
Asgjë më shumë se sa një çast

Kur ti je larg vetëm ty të mendoj
Unë mbyll dy sytë
Mbyll dy sytë të ndjej pranë
Të ndiej

Sa herë ti, ti më fton
Sa herë më merr ti në ëndërr
Jo, jo, ti mos më zgjo
Nga kjo magji e dashurisë

Sa herë ti, ti më fton
Sa herë më merr ti në ëndërr
Jo, jo, ti mos më zgjo
Nga kjo magji e dashurisë

Unë jam e jotja çdo ditë që kalon
Unë jam me ty kur larg të kam

Edhe një çast nëse ti më mungon
Unë mbyll dy sytë të ndjej pranë

Asgjë më shumë jo, nga ty nuk kerkoj
Asgjë më shumë se sa një çast

Kur ti je larg vetëm ty të mendoj
Unë mbyll dy sytë
Mbyll dy sytë të ndjej pranë
Të ndiej

Sa herë ti, ti më fton
Sa herë më merr ti në ëndërr
Jo, jo, ti mos më zgjo
Nga kjo magji e dashurisë

Më kërko në pafundësi
Më kërko unë do vij

Sa herë ti, ti më fton
Sa herë më merr ti në ëndërr
Jo, jo, ti mos më zgjo
Nga kjo magji e dashurisë

"Albania depends mostly on farming, and its main crops are wheat, maize, sugar beet, potatoes and fruit. It has borders with Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia and Greece."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Nathan's view
Kejsi Tola was last night chosen to represent Albania at the Eurovision Song Contest 2009 in Moscow. Albania are the first country again this year to select their singer and their song.

Festivali I Këngës came to a conclusion last night in it's new format. On Friday night all the artists presented their song for the first time, then on Saturday the artists performed duets with other famous Albanian artists to show their song in a new light. This was most effective in songs which now included a rapping part, eg. Sona Malaj's Zona zero. Last night the 4 hour show drew to a close with Kejsi Tola announced as the winner with 126 points, 7 points ahead of Juliana Pasha & Luiz Ejlli (Luiz was Albania's representive in 2006), who were 1 point in front of popular Albanian rap group West Side Family (also known as WTF Family after two poor performances out of three).

Now, I wanted Vedat Ademi with Po me prite ti to win, he finished 14th. However, I also knew, and I said it before the show, that Kejsi Tola would win as she was the favourite. I do like Më merr në ëndërr, in fact, I love it. FIK was very, very strong this year, and this is the deserved winner and if translated into English and if Kejsi Tola decides dancing is a clever idea then it could very well be Tirana 2010.

Hannah's view

Nathan's view
Has Macedonia lost it?

I love this entry in both Macedonian and English but to release it in Albanian, Russian, Serbian and Turkish as well...

I'm not too sure about the Russian and Serbian versions but the Albanian and Turksish versions work well and you can be sure that when they tour Europe all the versions will be used!

I can see them doing well (with the English version, Let Me Love You) in Belgrade this year. As long as they don't change languages... again.

And I have to say I agree with Kristopher (below) that those first 10 seconds are absolute class.

Kristopher's view

What, no Greek language version? But seriously, the English does lose something, because lyrics are always so much more mystical when you don't know what they are saying. Slavic-tinged love songs are much like Cubano or Latino lyrics in this sense -- it takes a real poet to translate them into something that isn't trite. Apart from being catchy, this song has an added bonus -- the folk-music-like intro in the first ten seconds, which I think I will sample and loop over and over again on my iPod.

"The mountainous Republic of Romania is the largest Balkan nation. The Communist regime was overthrown in 1989 when the dictator Nicolae Ceausescu was executed. The country is still very poor, with almost half or Romanians living in poverty. It is now a member of the European Union."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think this is a nice, slow ballad. For one a slow, slightly similar ballad hasn't made me fall to sleep! I don't know what's different about this one either... it's just the same as the rest of the ballads and I don't know what the lyrics mean... but I like this song; well - I don't dislike it, put it that way!

Nathan's view
This has grown on me, it's quite a good song. I definitely like the bit where it changes tempo in the middle. Of course, I don't speak Romanian or Italian so I haven't a clue about what they're singing... And I really can't be bothered to check Diggiloo either.

"The Russian Federation is the largest country in the world, almost twice the size of the United States. It stretches from Europe to Asia and covers 13% of the worlds total land area. Russia was the chief republic of the former Soviet Union, which in 1991 was split into 15 separate republics. Oil, natural gas, timber and metals make up more than 80% of its exports. The country is still held back by poor transport and other systems. It also suffers from violent conflict in the Chechnya region."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
Again, this is a ballad, but it is rather touching and the chorus is very catchy.
This is a lot more interesting than other ballads and has a good beat and rhythm. The music is very powerful and so is the singer, slightly less than the music though.
This is a good track, but Nathan likes this a lot more than me and I'm sure he'll have more to say!

Nathan's view
Dima's back! And I prefer this entry! Dima Bilan came second in 2006, in Athens, and would've won if Lordi weren't there! Believe is a very good entry and I think it will do very, very well! I know that Dima will try his hardest in Belgrade and I know that he can win. He will breeze through Semi Final 1, possibly winning it, and then he should come in the top 3 in the Final. Though I believe that due to political voting it could be Russia's year... finally.

Kristopher's view
There is something magnetic about Dima and some girls will go crazy at the falsetto bits, but the performance I saw came off a little thin and shrill. I don't think the choreography (or lack thereof) really works in his favour. "I will be standing strong...nothing's gonna move this mountain", he sings -- in a falsetto, on his knees? Yeah, I know, the song is about heroic determination and it's supposed to look like gravity's pulling him down, but I doubt Dima has the presence and personality to pull off this material. At this point in his career, he's better suited to upbeat music (such as the excellent Timbaland produced tracks) and moving around more on stage.

"Portugal lies to the west of Spain on the Iberian peninsula. It is one of the European Union's least developed countries and has the highest number of people working on the land. Portugal's economy has grown rapidly since it joined the European Union in 1986. Tourism is one of its fastest growing industries. Portugal once had a vast empire, stretching across the Americas, Africa and Asia. Over 177 million people worldwide speak Portuguese."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
This is another ballad. I find it boring but not something you'd be able to sleep to, especially with Vânia's AMAZING vocals! She has a very powerful voice but is also able to sing calmly and softly.
This is a ballad that seems to tell a story and after reading the English translation, it seems slightly suicidal. It talks about a man who is no longer there, and the singer is appealing to 'The Lady of the Sea'. Perhaps the man drowned? I don't know... All I know is that this woman has talent!

Nathan's view
I'll admit it's a good ballad, not amazing, but good. I would fall asleep to it. It's boring but, as Hannah said, Vânia keeps you awake. The lyrics work well in English and it's one of the only songs which really means something this year. But, for me, Portugal are going to be disappointed again this year.

"Poland is the largest nation in Central Europe and has the highest population. It was devastated by World War II, when more than six million people died - more than in any other country. In 1989 Poland was the first Eastern European nation to topple its Communist leaders. In May 2004 it joined the European Union."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think the music to this is very sweet and beautiful. The lyrics are a bit romantic and mushy, but the music makes up for it.
It's quite slow, but not so slow its dragging. The artist, Isis Gee, has a very powerful voice and uses it accordingly. One down side though, is I feel the music drowns out her voice slightly, making it harder to distinguish the lyrics; but not too hard.
This is a sweet ballad and I hope it does well, as this sounds like actual music, something that would fair well outside of Eurovision.

Nathan's view
I don't like it to be honest. It's the same all the way through but Isis has a powerful voice, which is what you need for a good ballad. It won't do well at Eurovision, which will hopefully prompt Poland to rethink their national selection as they are yet to proceed through the Semi Finals.

"Norway is famous for its fjords. The population is small and has a very good standard of living, thanks to the country's plentiful natural resources. Only Russia and Saudi Arabia export more oil than Norway, and it is the world's biggest exporter of seafood."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think this artist got it in one; 'You might be saying "Why Me?"' I am. This song holds no interest for me. I find it quite boring.
The music is repetitive and doesn't really change from verse to chorus. I find that annoying that there is no real distinguishing point between the two.
An upside to this song though is the fact that it's catchy. Anyone will be able to remember, 'Hold on, hold on, be strong.'
It is boring, but ok in some places; it's a mixed bag from me. It grows on you I guess...

Nathan's view
I love it. It was my early favourite and I still believe it will do well, as it is one of the better ballads. The repetitiveness will do the country well and I can see it gaining a top half position in the Final. Hold on Norway... We may just be coming there next year!

Hannah's view
I quite like this song. The verses are quite climatic towards the end of them, leading into the chorus. The choruses aren't really catchy, and there isn't much of a difference between the verses and choruses.Although the lyrics may not be catchy, the beat and music certainly is infectious. It is a slowish pop song that is sung well by a good female artist. Well done Netherlands.

Nathan's view
It could be better. I thought Edsilia's On Top Of The World should have qualified for the final last year, but I don't believe this should.

Sorry Netherlands. Good singer, bad song.

"Moldova is Europe's poorest country. It has no natural resources and imports all its energy supplies from Russia, from which it became independent in 1991."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
This is a slow and boring song in my opinion. It just rambles on about her and another person taking stars and touching rainbows. The music is basically all the same and holds no interest to me. Its boring, and i can't be bothered with the song or it's write up. So i shall waste no more words on it.

Nathan's view
I hold the same opinion as Hannah.

"After World War II, Israel was created in Palestine as a homeland for Jews. When Britain left the area in 1948 the State of Israel was proclaimed, and there was immeadiate conflict between the Jewish settlers and the Arabs who were living there. The State of Israel gained a great deal of land in the conflict, and many Palestinians were made homeless. There have been many attempts to make peace between the two sides but the conflict continues."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
Just listening to this song, you assume the artist is female. I was shocked to find that this is actually a boy! This song is a ballad, but a rather interesting ballad. HURRAY!
It's mostly sung in Hebrew, which to me, always sounds very mystic and wonderful! It works well in this song. Even without knowing the meanings it sounds very emotional, towards the end i can imagine him bursting into tears, bless!
I think this is a very sweet slow song and I really hope it does well, also half way through it has a little bit of traditional music in there, very funky!

Nathan's view
Boring. This and Albania's 'Zemrën E Lamë Peng' are just why I don't like ballads. It's boring. It gets a bit interesting in the middle, then becomes boring again. This is a very unwelcome change from Teapacks last year. Sorry Israel, but I don't think you will do well.

"Hungary became Communist after World War II. In the 1990's, it defied the Soviet Union and began some free trade with the West. This central European country has flourished since the Soviet Union's collapse and it entered the European Union in 2004."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think this is a good song. Maybe a little bit slower than the other pop songs; but still very good. This song has also been changed into English for Eurovision and; like all songs that have been converted from one language to another, I half expect the chorus to be in Hungarian during the English version!
I think this song works well in both Hungarian and English. The artist has a strong voice and can easily sing in tune. She is able to put a lot of power into her voice and it sounds almost effortless! Points for that!
I think this is a good song and should do well, if it will or not is the big question with every song! The only way we'll find out is to watch the semi-finals and final.

Nathan's view
This is the only song which has been changed this year that I don't like. Switch it back now! Szívverés was so much better than Candlelight and it worked better. I'm not going to comment on Candlelight as although she has a good, strong voice, it doesn't work as well as Szívverés.

"The ancient county of Greece lies in an important position between Europe, Asia and Africa. It includes about 2,000 islands as well as the mainland. About 14 million tourists visit Greece every year. However, it has few natural resources and relies on money from the European Union."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

"The Mediterranean island of Cyprus has been divided since Turkey invaded the north of the island in 1974. The Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus is recognized only by Turkey. Greek Cyprus attracts many tourists and was accepted into the European Union in 2004. The Turkish part depends heavily on loans from Turkey."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
This starts off very traditional with a guitar and her voice. Her singing is in tune and quite impressive with the long and varying notes.

"Croatia was one of Yugoslavia's most advanced and prosperous areas, and declared its independence in 1991. The country borders the Adriatic Sea and its coast was popular with torusits. The Yugoslavian conflict of 1991-95 threw the country into turmoil, but visitors are now returning."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I don't really know what to make of this. There is a man singing, who is then interrupted by an older sounding man ranting on. (???) Is it just me whose confused here?

"Armenia was the first country formally to adpot Christianity in AD 301. This mountainous coutnry is bordered by Azerbaijan, Goergia, Iran and Turkey. Its key position between Europe and Asia led to invasions by the Persian, Ottoman, Roman and Byzantine empires, among others."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think this is a really good up beat, catchy song with a fun feel to it.
It starts off very traditional with powerful singing and a quite quiet music to emphasise her voice. Then the main dancey music kicks in and it makes your toes tapping!
Its really easy to sing to in the chorus; I mean - any fool can master the words 'Qele, Qele'!
I think this is a good song and should do well.

Nathan's view
Qele, Qele is a great song guaranteed to make you sing along. The Armenian lyrics at the beginning with full emphasis on Sirusho's voice works well and when the dancey music comes in you start partying! If this doesn't do well... I will eat... Hannah.

"Bosnia and Herzegovina was recognized as an independent state in 1992 after Yugoslavia collapsed in 1991. Since then clashes between Bosnia's Croats, Serbs and Muslims have caused civil war, which is still not resolved. Despite this, more tourists are beginning to visit the country again."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
Laka cannot sing, simple as. The backing girl can though...
I don't like the starting; it's boring and ballad-like. But, luckily, it picks up the tempo after the introduction and becomes a little bit more interesting. Its a long wait for the good bit, and to be honest, it's not worth it. Not very good try this year Bosnia and Herzegovina! Its a weird and varying track. There is bad singing and weird chanting near the end - very strange.

Nathan's view
This is very strange and it's not one of Bosnia and Herzegovina's best songs. The guy sings very high throughout and the backing singers are slightly strange too. I'm pretty sure that this would be classed as a pop song, but I can't be sure. Try again in 2009!

"The Czech Republic was part of Czechoslovakia until it split from Slovakia in 1993. It now attracts investment from other countries and has a thriving tourism industry. The country joined the European Union in 2004."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
To be honest, I don't really like this song. Yes it's poppy and fun, but I don't like it. I get bored listening to it.
I cant put my finger on it, but there's something wrong with this girl's voice. It's probably that it's computer generated. I don' think they picked this girl for her voice, but her looks. Why do I have a feeling 'Have Some Fun' isn't as innocent as it's meant to seem.
I think the chorus is repetitive and the music is bland and boring. I don't like this song; I actually just yawned whilst listening to it.

Nathan's view
I used to really like this song, and not because she's fit. It was one of my early favourites but I got bored of it once the really good entries were picked. I suppose that's the problem with picking early in the year. I like her voice, and it's real. If this was the best song in the Czech final then you really need to get your act together. First Kabát now Tereza. Come on Czech Rep! I know you can pick better!

"France is the largest country in Western Europe and a key member of the European Union. It has a varied landscape ranging from coastal plains to the Alps in the south-east. Farms and forests cover a large proportion of the country, and agricultural products - particularly wine and liqueurs - are major exports. France once had one of the world's largest empires. Most of its former colonies are now independent, but French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, Mayotte, St. Pierre and Miquelon, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, Wallis and Futuna and the Southern and Antarctic Territories all still have links with France."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
May I first state that Sébastien Tellier is NOT divine, he is weird. This song gets on my nerves. It feels like it's been written by someone who was SERIOUSLY high at the time. The opening music is very happy-clappy, away-with-the-pixies and hippy-ish.
I feel like this guy doesn't quite know his lyrics, as at the start of each verse, he stutters a random letter. (???)
It stops in the middle, getting your hopes up that its finished, only to find that the guy has run out of happy pills and become depressive but all of a sudden becomes high again with his little band of people saying 'bop' and 'beep' and other such stuff.
A truly random and very weird track form France this year.

Nathan's view
Totally weird sums this song up in two words. It takes 40 seconds for him to even say a word. I do, however, like the way he stutters the first letter at the start of each verse. It stops in the middle, a good use of pause, but you do think that it's finished when you first listen to it. It becomes sort of sad and depressed at this point and then it becomes all happy and jolly again. It seems that France have joined the joke entry pile this year.

Hannah's view
I like this song. Its upbeat to start and then slows slightly. I think the genre and the way the artist delivers the song is very good.
I like the lyrics of the song - if you had just read them and not actually heard the song, you would have thought those lyrics belonged to a ballad, but they managed to put it into a pop song; and I think they've done a good job!
The only thing that slightly annoys me is that this song reminds me of Austria's entry last year, 'Get A life, Get Alive'

Nathan's view
Sounds like a pop version of 'Ajde, Kroči! It's ok but to be honest, it's not the greatest. We all know that countries from former Yugoslavia normally do well, but do better with a good song. I think this will do well because of it's political relations and because it's a good pop song.

Hannah's view
This is another emotional ballad like the one they sent last year. They are hoping, that if they sent the same style material they may win. I hated Molitva last year, and prefer this song - Oro.
I like the singer's powerful voice and the way she is able to cope when the music becomes very powerful and emotional. Unfortunately, the English translation of that piece of the music is just like Serbian scat.
I like this ballad, but it is still boring. It wont win this year.

Nathan's view
HOW IS THIS A FAVOURITE?! I much prefer Molitva... By a long, long stretch. I can't say much else other than it's another ballad. I hope, for the sake of the contest, that this doesn't win.

"The small Baltic state of Estonia regained its independence in 1991 when the Soviet Union collapsed. It was one of the Eastern European nations that joined the European Union in 2004."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I don't like this. It is a joke entry, and a bad one at that. These men can't sing. They are like drunk mates that decided they could do well in a karaoke contest. The plain truth is; no - you can't.
But it's not just the singing that bugs me... its the lyrics. Its more like a shopping list than a song. In English, most of the verses just say, 'beans pods, cake, lobster, that's enough, that's enough.' I'm sorry... but what kind of song has that utter RUBBISH in its lyrics, let alone making its lyrics up OUT OF that rubbish. Its ridiculous. I don't like it.

Nathan's view
So the song is called Leto Svet (Summer Light) but it's about food... Confusing, or what? We stole the esctoday podcast title for their Estonian chat but to be honest, it fits. They won with the only song since the turn of the millennium that I don't remember. I loved Sandra Oxenryd's entry in 2006 and Gerli Padar's entry last year wasn't that bad but this... well it's indescribable. I hate it... I really do.

"Georgia lies in a key position east of the Black Sea between Russia and Turkey. It has coal deposits, but they have not yet been exploited. The country relies on farming - particularly grapes from which wine is made."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I think this is again, another ballad, but a more interesting ballad than others. Normally ballads make me fall to sleep, but Georgia's doesn't.
With the singer's amazing high pitched vocals and then chant of 'Peace Will Come' it definitely keeps you awake. I think she sings well, but not as well as others.
I like this song, but I'm not really keen. I think there are definitely better songs out there! So basically, well done Georgia - just try harder next time!

Nathan's view
It's not a ballad. It's a pop song. It's fantastically sung by a fantastic woman, you have to commend her for performing although she is blind. The lyrics are very catchy and I enjoy listening to the song. The video to go with this song is also very moving. She sings well, and better than most in my view. Maybe not the best, but one of this year. In my opinion, this is as good as last years début. Well done Georgia - must be one of the only countries to have two successive good entries... with Finland.

"Latvia is bounded by the Baltic Sea, Estonia, Lithuania, Belarus and Russia. It became independent of the Soviet Union in 1991 and in 2004 it was accepted into the European Union."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
When i first heard this song I thought; Oh. My. Word. WHAT?!
Not only does it start out singing 'With a hi hi ho and a hi hi hey!' But it talks about pirates and the artists actually dress up as such.
As a rule I try to avoid songs with the phrase; Jolly Rogers Go!; but the up tempo beat and rhythm of this song has grown on me. I think its a fun poppy joke entry; a bit like Ireland.
I think this song is OK, but a bit of an embarrassment! I wouldn't admit to liking it in public, put it that way!

Nathan's view

With a hi hi ho and a hi hi hey

We're hoisting the flag to be free

We will steal the show, Jolly Rogers go

We are wolves of the sea

That is exactly what I want to hear for Eurovision. That is Eurovision. I love it, I really do. It has been one of my favourites since I first heard it! The costumes make it so much funnier too! I cannot wait for them to perform at Eurovison because they will get through! I am constantly playing this with Hero and This Is My Life!

Hannah's view
I really like this song. It's very pop, upbeat, and the start is very unique. You know that it's the Bulgarian entry just from the introduction. Then when the actual music kicks in, your surprised to find it has a slight reggae influence and is quite slow and laid back.
The girl can sing really well and the lyrics are quite unique, but very repetitive; but unlike other songs; you don't get bored as the music is so interesting. The beat boxing is quite weird when you first hear the song, but suits quite well with the fun rapping style of the intro.
good song! Like it a lot!

Nathan's view
I don't really like it. It's not like Iceland and I do get bored quite early on. It's too repetitive for me, but I suppose that repetitiveness will work well in the contest. The girl can sing so that's a positive but, for me, the rest is negative.

"Since the end of World War II, Finland has changed from being a rural country covered with dense forest into a modern nation. It has very successful industries and an excellent welfare system. Finland joined the European Union in 1995 and adopted the Euro as its currency in 2002."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Nathan's view
Finland have found that rock is the key to Eurovision. Every year since Lordi won... ok since 2006 Finland have sent rock to Eurovision. Last year it was Hanna this year it's Teräsbetoni! I love Finnish rock so yet again I am backing Finland to do well. It seems, to me at least, that Scandinavia have all sent good entries but they do all vary from one another. As Scandinavia is split in the Semis, Finland can only guarantee 12 points from Norway so they will have to hope that rock appeals to the rest of Europe again. I'm glad that Finland have sent an entry completely in Finnish as this keeps the competition alive. I love this song, and I definitely hope that it reaches the Final. Well, considering the Semi it's in, that shouldn't be a problem!

Hannah's view
I really like this rock track. It makes a differnece form all the pop and ballads that have been sent.
I definitely agree, Finland seem to think that rock is the new black. Since they have won with Lordi; a scary track with an even scarier band; they have continued to send rock tracks hoping to win again.
I think the fact that this track is in Finnish seems to add to it. Why does rock seem to sound better in Finnish?! Or is that just me? The voice of this band is vry fitting too. it can reach notes on either end of the scale, high and low.
I really like this track and hope it does do well.

"Turkey is in a key position between Europe and Asia. The territory west of the Bosphorus strait is in Europe, while the much larger area to the east is in Asia. Turkey is popular with tourists and between seven ant ten million people every year visit its coastline and the historic city of Istanbul."

Whitaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
Im sorry for this corny title!! It was Nathan's idea; blame him!
I think this entry is ok, but it cannot beat 'Shake It Up Šekerim' as that was a great Eurovision entry, but I'm talking about Deli, not that Shake it Up.
I think it has a very rock feel to it, and I wish I knew what the lyrics meant in English; a quick visit to Diggiloo should sort that out!
I think its upbeat and easy to listen to, but not the best entry in the contest by far.

Nathan's view
Hmm... Turkey's last 2 entries appeal to me much more than this. It maybe a good rock song, but as Hannah said 'Shake It Up Šekerim' was better, and 'Süper Star' beats them both in my opinion! English would be better for this song but it does work quite well in Turkish, and it has, I have to admit, grown on me! Not the best entry, but it does reach my top 21!

"Iceland is a volcanic island and is the most westerly country in Europe. Its capital city is the furthest north in the world. Iceland is a wealthy country with low unemployment and a good welfare system. Fish provides 70% of its exports, which could cause problems as fish stocks decline."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
This is a good upbeat, dancey song that I know Nathan LOVES. I like it too, but not as much as Nathan. It opens with a slow but dancey tune and then becomes very pop. It's very fun to listen to and reminds me vividly of night clubs - it has that kind of beat and music.
The lyrics are very... proud, if i could relate that. The singers are obviously very proud about their life and the way its gone; espicially since they say 'This is my life, I dont wanna change a thing'. Good song; wish it well.

Nathan's view
I think we could be going to Reykjavík in 2009! This is a great upbeat dance song and, for me, a Eurovision song has to be upbeat! I love it so much! It will be played constantly at Eurovision Nightclubs around Europe as it is one of those songs you just expect to hear in a nightclub. I would even imagine it in UK nightclubs if it wins! Both singers can sing, which is more than can be said for some countries *cough*AZERBAIJAN*cough*...

Nathan's view
I have just heard the English version of Vrag Naj Vzame called Heavy Weather and I'm finding it hard to decide if Slovenia should sing in English or Slovenian...

The Slovenian version is the best song sung in a country's national language but the English version is one of the best songs in the contest.

It's still undecided whether Slovenia will sing in English or Slovenian but to be honest I'd rather they sing in Slovenian for the sake of the contest, but I want her to sing in English because she'd have a better chance. I like this song and it could have the same impact on the contest as Helena Paparizou did back in 2005, it's the same type of song, upbeat, dancey track so it would do well in English, especially in Semi Final 1, because there are lots of weird and wonderful songs in there.

Hopefully Hannah can make her mind up on which she prefers but I can't!

Hannah's view
Unlike Nathan, I'm not so keen on the English version. I much prefer the Slovenian version. I really like the song itself and I think it'll do well, but i prefer the Slovenia version to the English version because it feels more unique and mysterious; because lets face it, Eurovision is all about uniqueness!

With the English version, i listen to it and half expect the singer to start singing 'Vrag Naj Vzame' when it hits the chorus! That is the confusing workings on my mind. Mid you, that happens with all the songs that have gone from one language to another. Oh well...

Ireland 9 - 2
Serbia 9 - 2
Russia 5 - 1
Armenia 11 - 2
Ukraine 6 - 1
Sweden 12 - 1
Bulgaria 18 - 1
Greece 20 - 1
Romania 20 - 1
Latvia 20 - 1
Bosnia and Herzegovina 20 - 1
Georgia 28 - 1
Turkey 28 - 1
Iceland 33 - 1
Spain 33 - 1
Switzerland 33 - 1
France 33 - 1
Albania 33 - 1
Estonia 33 - 1
Norway 40 - 1
Finland 40 - 1
Andorra 40 - 1
Belgium 40 - 1
Slovenia 50 - 1
United Kingdom 50 - 1
Malta 50 - 1
Azerbaijan 50 - 1
Portugal 50 - 1
Hungary 50 - 1
Israel 50 - 1
Denmark 66 - 1
Germany 66 - 1
Poland 66 - 1
Cyprus 100 - 1
Lithuania 100 - 1
Belarus 100 - 1
Czech Republic 100 - 1
Croatia 100 - 1
FYR Macedonia 100 - 1
Moldova 150 - 1
San Marino 150 - 1
Netherlands 150 - 1
Montenegro 150 - 1

"Macedonia's full name is the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM), not to be confused with the Greek region of Macedonia. Macedonia became independent in 1991. Since then there have been clashes between the country's large Albanian minority and its Macedonian minority"

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Nathan's view
Well even in Macedonian I loved this song, not sure why, probably because of it's great beat and RnB influences. The rap is so much better in English and I hope it gets through the Semis like normal for Macedonia! Now having listened to this song constantly for a week it is one of my favourites, sorry Norway you're out of there! Fantastic song, so catchy and so easy to pick up the lyrics! I will no doubt be dancing round to this and singing along! It's in SF2 and becomes my third vote. On the night I'm voting 6 times, 3 for Sweden, 2 for Iceland and 1 for Macedonia.

Hannah's view
I like this song. It was good in Macedonian to start with, but I prefer it in English. For example, it's like one of those songs that if it comes onto your iPod, you skip it, but you'll listen to the newer version. At least it is for me!
I think the beat is strong and the rap parts are good. The singer of the main part is singing well, in tune and in rythmn with the song (unlike others i could name). The lyrics are good, but every time the chorus in English kicks in I keep expecting it to start singing in Macedonian!!

"Azerbaijan regained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. The country has rich mineral resources as well as oil and natural gas. However, conflict and corruption have kept it from developing a healthy economy."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
Oh. My. Word. This is SOOOOO weird. The starting is an amazingly high pitched, creepily sung piece of 'opera' by an equally creepy man. Even though these artists are singing in English, you wouldnt be able to guess it as they sing in an, almost unnatural, way which makes the song seem scary. Something you'd find playing in a goth's bedroom; not Eurovision.
I do not like this song and I doubt it will do well in the finals, that's if it gets there. Bad first year Azerbaijan!

Nathan's view
I can tell you that Hannah doesn't think it's bad... we think it's worse but although we have freedom of speech on the Internet, we're not going to express it... Erm... Yeah... I can't actually tell you what I think about this. I'd have to censor it. Yeah it's bad... No it's worse than bad... There actually isn't a word you can use to describe this song. Let's leave it at that. And I'm never lost for words so... y'know this song has to be bad... or, as I've said, worse.

"Albania depends mostly on farming, and its main crops are wheat, maize, sugar beet, potatoes and fruit. It has borders with Serbia, Montenegro, Kosovo, Macedonia and Greece."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
This is just another boring ballad. This is why I don't like ballads, songs like this.
Yeah, the music is nice, but its all the same. And of course, the singer and backing singers can sing well, but there is no variation. The lyrics say the same thing over and over again, and all it seems to talk about is clocks... why?! She's singing, then there are people breathing (?!) and then she's singing to a slightly different bit of the music.
Boring ballad. Zzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzzz...

Nathan's view
Oh. My. Dear. God.
Not only have they sung in Albanian(?!) they have sung another ballad. I mean, come on Albania! It's not hard to try something new! I think the best song that Albania have sent in recent years is Zjarr E Ftohtë, probably because it wasn't a ballad. Like Hannah, this is the reason I don't like ballads. It's so slow, it's all the same. Sure, she has a nice voice but it's all the same. This is the sort of music that wants to make me go to sleep. And what is with the 'breathing(?)' in the background. I think it has a key change, I can't be sure because it's so boring. Yeah, y'see if we still had juries, and I was on the United Kingdom's jury and we could vote in SF1 then I would make sure that this got 'nil points'.

"Switzerland is the most mountainous country in Europe. The Alps occupy 60% of its land area. It has a very high income per person, low unemployment and its people have a long life expectancy. Switzerland was not involved in either World War and has not joined the European Union."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
As Nathan is constantly reminding me; this year could be called 'The Year of the Ballad'. This is definitely true in the Swiss entry's case. Normally, I don't go in for ballads, I hated Serbia's entry last year; but I really like Era Stupendo. I think this is because it's not like a normal ballad which continually drones on about how life is awful.
Although this is in Italian and I cant understand it, i love the music. It starts off like a ballad, very slow and beautiful, but then the tempo picks up a quickish beat is introduced, making it feel a lot more exciting than your traditional ballad. It is also sung well and in tune by Paolo. Like this song; definitely one of the better ballads.

Nathan's view
I think the reason we both like this song is because although it's a ballad, it's a pop ballad! It's upbeat so yeah, like Norway, we like this ballad. As I have said time and time again this is 'The Year of the Ballad' so you have to have a special ballad to stand out and I'm sure that, again like Norway, Switzerland will stand out. They are almost guaranteed points from San Marino if this song reaches the final, cause it's in Italian!

"Ukraine is a vast area between Poland and Russia. It became independent after the collapse of the Soviet Union. In 1986 it was the scene of the world's worst nuclear disaster, when a reactor at the Chernobyl nuclear plant exploded."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Hannah's view
I like this song. I don't know why really.
I like the way the music reminds me of an action movie, all very loud and bursting in the choruses and slightly mysterious in the verses and introduction. I think the beat is infectious, it makes your feet itch to dance and the lyrics are very appealing to girls, mostly.
This year's Ukrainian entry might not be dressed in tin foil, but somehow I think the power of this woman's voice makes her performance shine. No need for silver cooking paper.

Nathan's view
Damn you Ukraine! Where's the tin foil?!
Great song again this year. I have NEVER not liked a entry from Ukraine. And it continues this year. Great beat and I will be dancing to this come May!

As many of you may have guessed from previous posts, I love certain songs (Andorra) and don't particularly like others. Nathan had been nagging me previously to pick my favourites. When I did do it, it was early on a morning on my bus with my iPod in listening to the songs. I was half asleep, rushed and couldn't be bothered, so i made a bit of a hash of it. So i decided, i WILL do it properly. It was immensely hard and took a lot of concentration, self discipline and cake, but, i've listened to all the songs and not been biased in my judgements. Much. Well, maybe a LITTLE bit, but that's not that bad is it?

1 point - Armenia; Qele, Qele
This is a good song from Armenia this year. It starts off quite slow and traditional, but then the tempo speeds up and it becomes a good catchy pop song. The lyrics are quite, what's the right word here? Playful? Fun? Suggestive? Demanding? All of the above and much more. Put it all together and it's a great song. The reason why it's bottom of my favourites is because I had TONS of songs to choose from and this one simply isn't the best.

2 points - Ukraine; Shady Lady
This song is very catchy and fun. It starts off very strange, but then the beat and lyrics come in and its very effective and powerful. One thing that does annoy me though, are those little beeps. What's the point? None the less, the chorus is powerful and catchy, great song! Not quite Verka, but I'm secretly happy they haven't sent another man dressed in tin foil. Don't tell Nathan...

3 points - Belarus; Hasta La Vista
This is a good rock/pop song with a very 'unique' video. When I first saw this dude, i thought he looked like an awkward teenager dancing, but he scrubs up well for this video. My first thought when watching it; PHWOAR!!!
The song itself is quite catchy and I find it slightly touching until he states "I don't care". I don't know why i rate this above the others, I just like it...

4 points - Greece; Secret Combination
Starts off very traditional and then has a funky modern beat thrown in there. Very smooth transaction from old to new, like it! Nathan used to LOVE this song and it had it on loop, so it got old fast. But this song is one of those whose chorus sticks in your head, and no matter how hard you try to get rid of it, you cant. I think that's why i like it. The chorus has a good beat and the lyrics are quite groovy and appealing to me for some reason. (by now I'm sure you've noticed I'm not very good at describing things!)

5 points - Slovenia; Vrag Naj Vzame
Although it is in another language, I really like it. I don't often opt for songs in a foreign language, simply cos i don't know what it's on about! But i do like this one. The verses are slightly boring but the choruses are upbeat and the words sound really funky! I mean - 'Vrag Naj Vzame' who could not like the sound of that? Especially since it means 'to hell with it!' (I only know this due to the fountain of all things Eurovision constantly repeating it and its meaning; ie. Nathan was being annoying)

6 points - Latvia; Wolves of the Sea
Ah, I was wondering when this was going to come up. This will be an amazement to Nathan that this is on my favourites at all. When he first played this, I told him straight out that I thought it was tacky Eurotrash. So, much to my annoyance, it grew on me. Although it is Eurotrash, it is upbeat with fun, and very strange, lyrics. They make you want to join the nearest 7 seas expedition and call yourself Pirate Peggy. Or at least it does to me... anyone else? Or am i going to sailing alone? I cant believe I just said that... ?!

7 points - Sweden; Hero
This year, Sweden has a strong singer singing a great song. The lyrics are very catchy and paired with an up beat modern music rhythm and beat, it makes a great song that its really nice to listen to and learn!!
Although I didn't watch it being performed at Melodifestivalen (as Nathan repeatedly reminds me) but I did think it had a good chance of winning, which reflected in my voting. I still think it has a good chance of coming into the top 10, just not winning.

8 points - Denmark; All Night Long
I love this song and have done for a while. I like this genre, easy listening/pop sort of songs. The music is very easy to listen to and is quite regular. The dude who sings it, Simon Mathew, has a good voice which suits this song well. If you've read my Denmark post, you have heard all this before and I am running out of new opinions ad things to say other than I love this song! GO DENMARK!!

10 points - Andorra; Casanova
Ah, this prediction is slightly different and it took me a lot of effort to place this song 2nd from the top. I am quite faithful to Andorra and in all my earlier top 12 favourites, Andorra has always come top; mainly because I loved Anonymous so much last year. So when I listened to Andorra's song this year, I loved it from the first beat.
The beat is rhythmical, catchy and the lyrics are so fun and sung so well! I love this song so much, but I had to be honest, and there's one that I love and like that little bit more...

12 points - Germany; Disappear!!
Germany. This song is brilliant! These girls know how to sing and show it beautifully!! I think the song is a very good mixture of ballad and upbeat chorus. It never gets too hectic or busy and is quite slow compared to other songs. I am a bit of a romantic deep down, so I loved the concept and lyrics of this song, I think deep down most of us do! The music is quite rhythmical and quite light, not very heavy like Finland. I love this song and it took a lot of courage and self discipline t put it top!! This is not its kiss of death! It will survive and do well, it probably wont win knowing Germany's luck - but who cares?! It's already #4 in the German charts! (Unfortunately, I'm secretly wishing Andorra does better. Damn these voices in my head!! My doctor says I'm schizophrenic, but we don't agree...)

"Spain covers most of the Iberian peninsula. The country has many cultures. Basque, Catalan, Galician and Valencian are spoken in different regions, but Castilian Spanish is the official language. There are 19 regions with their own elected authoritites. There is a campaign for independence by the Basque country in the north, which has caused ongoing problems for the government. Spain is the world's second most popular tourist destination (after France) and has more than 50 million visitors every year. The fishing industry is one of the biggest in Europe but unemployment is high."

Whittaker's World of Facts - Russell Ash

Nathan's view
Thanks Spain for a few laughs this year! I am going to be (attempting) breakdancing, crossing legs, moonwalking and doing the robot come May so I'm looking forward to it! Erm, other than that all I can say is that it is a completely crap joke entry which could finish highly in the Final. I'm sure Hannah will have a bit more to say...!

Hannah's view
Oh god!! AHHHHHHHHHHHH!! I HATE this song!!
The introduction is MASSIVELY long and boring, the man who sings this sounds (and probably is) deranged!! What is he ON!?!?!?!
I mean, el robocop? WHAT?!?
As you can see. I don't like this song. I doubt I ever will. Sorry. But that's life. Face it. Just do!!

So now we are ready for May. All the songs have been picked, and we have strong opinions about lots of these songs. As long as we don't give the kiss of death to these songs then one of these should win in Belgrade. Hannah will tell you that I have not had one favourite from beginning to end, and it has changed quite often. So far, my favourites have been Norway, Slovenia, Iceland and Sweden. Norway, my early favourite has slipped down my top 10... so who's in it now?

1 point - Norway - Maria Haukaas Storeng - Hold On, Be Strong
This pop ballad is very well written and has a great rhythm. The reason this song only gets 1 point, as opposed to a higher score earlier on, is because it's a ballad we will save judgement until she gets on stage and performs it. Ballads have to be sung well to score highly.

2 points - Georgia - Diana Gurtskaya - Peace Will Come
Georgia's début entry last year was fantastic. They pulled out all the stops to put on a great show for their first entry. I like this year's entry much, much more! Peace Will Come is a pop song which tackles an everyday issue of peace. It's a great song and I think if she performs well in Belgrade she could finish well for Georgia.

3 points - Russia - Dima Bilan - Believing
When Dima Bilan entered Eurovision for Russia in 2006 he came second, runner-up to Lordi. This time he's back with another pop ballad. I believe that this song can do very well in Belgrade. The reason this song gets more points than Norway is because in 2006 Dima put on a great show for his ballad and we've been told to expect the same this year, without the piano!

4 points - Germany - No Angels - Disappear
Germany have sent their most famous girl group No Angels to Belgrade in hope of securing a first victory for the 'Big 4' in 10 years. The pop song Disappear is another well written song and I think we can expect a very good performance and stage show in Belgrade.

5 points - Andorra - Gisela - Casanova
One of my favourites from the beginning but has slipped down due to the fact it's repetitive and there being better songs. It's another pop song with a catchy and repeatable chorus that Hannah simply cannot get out of her head! I expect it to get through the Semis but do poorly in the Final.

6 points - Latvia - Pirates of the Sea - Wolves of the Sea
This is the best joke entry of 2008. It's pirates for goodness sake! I love them so much, it has a very catchy chorus and it's quite singable! This can only fit in the genre of Eurotrash! My favourite lines include 'We are robbing you blind, I hope you don't mind.' and 'Then Hook, our captain is looking at you, there's no Peter Pan, so what can you do?' It's fantastically well written and I expect it to do reasonably well in the Final.

7 points - Armenia - Sirusho - Qele, Qele
This song is quite repetitive but very catchy and you find yourself saying 'Qele, Qele' quite often to yourself and you can sing along to this really easily. I hope this is performed as well as André did on Armenia's début in 2006 as they really deserve to do well this year. I also think that due to the quality of the song, and positioning of Armenia, we could be going to Yerevan in 2009.

8 points - Slovenia - Rebeka Dremelj - Vrag Naj Vzame
This was my favourite for at least 2 months, until This Is My Life was released. Slovenia's stylish video really caught my eye too! The song is so catchy and I find myself subconsciously singing along! I love the way that 'Vrag Naj Vzame' means 'To Hell With It' and that fits with the nature of the song perfectly. I really expect this to be the highest charting song in a language other than English, it should get through the Semis comfortably and should do reasonably well in the Final.

10 points - Iceland - Eurobandið - This Is My Life
This is what a Eurovision song should be! If Iceland still don't do well this year then they are going to have to rethink their selection process. However, this will do well, no matter what else is in it's Semi. It will stand out above the rest and progress to the Final. I think a top 5 placing for Iceland in the Final.

12 points - Sweden - Charlotte Perrelli - Hero
THANK YOU SWEDEN!
Melodifestivalen was fantastic and this was simply the best of the Melodifestivalen Final. Ok so the public wanted a ballad, unlucky Sanna, but the juries wanted a classic Swedish Eurovision song, and rightfully so! I have this on loop at the moment, along with This Is My Life and Vrag Naj Vzame, so I want, hope and know it will do well in Belgrade. It will win Semi Final 2 and because the UK have voting rights in SF2 then I will vote my heart out for Sweden because this is simply the best song this year. I think we should be going to Sweden for Eurovision next year and they deserve to host it.