Before you start reading it I’d like to make one thing clear. I’m not a Eurovision fan and I don’t follow it that much. Usually, it’s a major hype on (social) media and widely discussed topic in general. And that’s it. To me.

A lil bit of the background

For those, who have no clue about what EuroVision actually is (I don’t think such people are reading my post but anyway) — it’s a song contest show ran from 1956, where most of the developed countries take part. Every year each country selects a represantative — a singer/band — and then this rep performce live on the EuroVision scene and hoping to become famous (or get free drinks & food). The winner country hosts the event a year after in one of its cities and this is sort of an ongoing process.

Rumors and Criticism

I’m not sure to what extent these claims are true, but here is what I’ve heard. First of all, some people say it’s all paid. In other words, the richer your sugar daddy (or whoever you are sponsored by) the more likely you are to win. Another rumor, is that some countries collaborate together (don’t know if they were referring to EU or so) and don’t let one country to win.

Apart from rumors there is a lot of criticism of the whole judging process. For instance, what are they assessing? The performance? The music and lyrics? The voice? Who knows! But the point here— how objective the judgement is?

Another point is political and geographical bias, which is kind of supporting what I said earlier about countries cooperating against another one. More than that, votes dissemination is not equal meaning that a small country has smaller chances to win and vice versa.

Freaks VS. Traditions

It’s important to remember that as much as it is a competition among singers, for us — viewers — it’s just an entertainment or time-killing matter. Therefore, each rep is trying to not only impress by his/her vocal talent but also to create an awesome live show and rock it on the stage. So, EuroVision attracts a lot of weird and freakish people. And for some countries this strategy really works! They choose attention over talent and perhaps, depending on what do you want to achieve it might be a great option for some.

A white crow

Every year EuroVision has its own rumors and scandals, some of them happen at the backstage and some are publicly argued (thanks to the press!). In 2006, a rock band from Finland won EuroVision and due to the public suffering from xenophobia (fear of something unknown/uncommon) the reaction was mixed. Because, people are used to pop-singers singing about “Endless Love” and “Can’t live without YOU” (all these kind of stuff). And whenever someone stands out from the crowd — public doesn’t appreciate or encourage that (here it’s really important to mention that from now on Im reffering to Eastern Europe and Russia as those are usually annoyed and frustrated).

So what’s so special about this year? Nothing much to me. I saw a plenty of guys dressed up as a woman in my life. But for ex-USSR countries it seems like a big deal.

TransVision 2014

This year Austria was represented by Conchita Wurst — a young transsexual, who decided to be unique by keeping his (her?) beard on (wondering how hygienic it is in combination with heavy make-up though). When it first was announced that Ms.Wurst is going to participate in the contest Belrussia and Russia wanted to boycott EuroVision, because they thought it stands and shows wrong values and norms (propaganda — that’s how they love to call it over there). They even wrote a petition signed up by 400 people to cut off her perforamce during the EuroVision Broadcasting (for f*cks sake!). Those people were parents, who believe their kids can be affected by it. But will get back to them later.

Political Challenge Excepted

It is quite obvious that this is dedicated to“Putin-anti-gay-law” — the one that encouraged homophobia and violence within russian society (was never tolerent as far as I remeber). After winning the contest Conchita said in her interview:

“This is dedicated to everyone who believes in a future of peace and freedom. We are unity and we are unstoppable”

I must say I admire this person for just going against the system and not being afraid of pressure that now media creates. While I was reading russian news I just scrolled down for a minute to read the comments below. I don’t think I’ve ever seen SO much HATE. I’m not sure if these people will ever become more or less tolerant. It was scientifically proven that people are born gay, they can’t become gay/trans by just seeing people like that. It’s such a shame and a step backwards. I won’t say I’m pleased with seeing a chick with a beard but who cares? It’s his/her life, he/she can do whatever he/she wants (a bit confusing to find a pronoun for a trans, ain’t it?)!

Right now, while haters are hating and LGBT are celebrating, Conchita purposely or unpurposely became one of the most debating topic on Twitter and Instagram. So, at the end of the day she is a singer and what most of singers want? Fame. She’s getting there. I believe.

I hope one day there won’t be any discrimination on sexuality, race or gender. Cheesy and idealistic? May be…

Be tolerant. Be open-minded. Mind your own business.

What do you think about 2014 EuroVision winner? Agree or Disagree? Would love to read your opinion about that!