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Home , Ana Rucner, Blue and Red, Borislav Milanov, Color of Your Life, Dami Im, Dance You Off

Albania Competing Broadcaster: Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSh) Debut: 2004 Best Finish: 4th place (2012) Number of Entries: 13 Worst Finish: 17th place (2009, 2015) A Brief History: Albania has had moderate success in the Contest, qualifying for the Final more often than not, but ultimately not placing well. Albania achieved its highest ever placing, 4th, in . Song Title: Fairytale Performing Artist: Eneda Tarifa Composer(s): Olsa Toqi Lyricist(s): Olsa Toqi About the Performing Artist: Tarifa first rose to prominence in 2010 after winning Top Fest . Since then, she has continued on to have a successful career as a singer, a lyricist, and television writer. She has also done much work judging and developing young talent. Semi-Final 2, Song Number 18 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Armenia Competing Broadcaster: Public Television of Armenia (ARPTV) Debut: 2006 Best Finish: 4th place (2008) Number of Entries: 10 Worst Finish: 18th place (2012) A Brief History: In five of its previous attempts, Armenia landed in the Top Ten making it one of the more successful countries in the Contest today. However, Armenia has yet to reach the Top Three. Song Title: Love Wave Performing Artist: Composer(s): Lilith Navasardyan, Levon Navasardyan Lyricist(s): Iveta Mukuchyan, Stephanie Crutchfield About the Performing Artist: Raised in , Mukuchyan left her university studies in linguistics to return to Armenia to study music. She competed in Armenian Idol in 2010 and Germany's in 2012; she finished in second place in both competitions. Semi-Final One, Song Number 07 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Australia Competing Broadcaster: Special Broadcasting Service (SBS) Debut: 2015 Best Finish: 5th place (2015) Number of Entries: 2 Worst Finish: 5th place (2015) A Brief History: Australia made its debut in ESC last year as a special guest commemorating the Contest's 60th Anniversary. Australia will be leading the way for an Asia-Pacific version of the ESC. Song Title: Sound of Silence Performing Artist: Dami Composer(s): DNA (David Musumeci & Anthony Egizii) Lyricist(s): DNA (David Musumeci & Anthony Egizii) About the Performing Artist: A classically trained pianist and Australian X-Factor champion, Im is no stranger to music competitions. Im has a number one album and several top ten hits to her name to boast. She will be Australia's first female singer. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 10 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Österreichischer Rundfunk (ORF) Debut: 1957 Best Finish: 1st place (1966, 2014) Number of Entries: 48 Worst Finish: Last (1957, 1991) A Brief History: Austria has had an up-and-down track record at the Contest, finding success as often as failure. After storming to victory in 2014, it became the first host country to receive a null points in 2015. Song Title: Loin d'Ici [Far from Here] Performing Artist: Zoë [Zoë Straub] Composer(s): Christof Straub & Zoë Straub Lyricist(s): Christof Straub & Zoë Straub About the Performing Artist: Zoë co-wrote and composed this song alongside her father, who is successful half of the duo Papermoon. She is active singer, actress, and television personality. Zoë attended a French- language high school in . Semi-Final One, Song Number 12 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: İctimai Televiziya (ITV) Debut: 2008 Best Finish: 1st place (2011) Number of Entries: 9 Worst Finish: 17th place (2014) A Brief History: Azerbaijan took home the victory in 2011 and has six Top Ten finishes; however, the "Land of Fire" has failed to reached the Top Ten each of the last two years. Song Title: Miracle Performing Artist: Samra [Samra Rahimli] Composer(s): Amir Aly, Jakke "T.I Jakke" Erixson, Henrik Wikström Lyricist(s): Amir Aly, Jakke "T.I Jakke" Erixson, Henrik Wikström About the Performing Artist: Samra has won the right to represent her country after failing to do so in 2012. After attending Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts, she reached the quarterfinals of Turkey's The Voice and came in fourth in Azerbaijan's version of the show in Semi-Final One, Song Number 14 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: National State Television & Radio Company (BTRC) Debut: 2004 Best Finish: 6th place (2007) Number of Entries: 13 Worst Finish: 2nd last (2010) A Brief History: Belarus has had limited success, qualifying for the Final four times, 2007, 2010, 2013, and 2014. Conversely, it is one of the most successful countries at the Junior ESC, having won twice. Song Title: Help to Fly Performing Artist: IVAN [Alexander Ivanov] Composer(s): Victor Drobysh Lyricist(s): Alexander Ivanov, Timofei Leontiev, Mary Susane Applegate About the Performing Artist: IVAN began his music career at 16, when he took part in Mass Medium Fest , a rock festival. After a short stint with a rock band, IVAN returned to Belarus where he competed in Main Stage in 2015, reaching the super final round. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 05 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Belgium Competing Broadcaster: Vlaamse Radio- en Televisieomroeporganisatie (VRT) Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1st place (1986) Number of Entries: 58 Worst Finish: Last (61, 62, 65, 73, 79, 85, 93, 00) A Brief History: Walloon RTBF and Flemish VRT, take turns competing. VRT's biggest success was in 2010, winning its semi-final and came in 6th in the Final. However, it was RTBF's entry that won. Song Title: What's the Pressure Performing Artist: Composer(s): Sanne Putseys, Birsen Uçar Lyricist(s): Sanne Putseys, Louis Favre, Yannick Werther About the Performing Artist: Tesoro is a stage veteran, having been the lead in Annie . She also has been acting on television and competing in musical competitions since of eight. She came in second on the Flemish version of The Voice . Semi-Final Two, Song Number 19 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Bosnia & Herzegovina Competing Broadcaster: Radio and Television of (BHRT) Debut: 1993 Best Finish: 3rd (2006) Number of Entries: 19 Worst Finish: Second last (1996) A Brief History: BiH returns after a three year hiatus. It is one of only six countries to qualify for the Final each year it competed (including preselections in 1993 and 1996). It has finished Top Ten six times. Song Title: [Love Is] Performing Artists: Dalal & Deen . and Jala Composer(s): Almir Ajanović Lyricist(s): Almir Ajanović, Jasmin Fazlić About the Performing Artist: Deen returns after representing BiH in 2004 with . Dalal is a famous jazz singer and has performed for the Pope. Rucner is one of the region's most successful cellist. Jasmin Fazlic-Jala is a famous rapper within BiH. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 17 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: Bulgarian National Television (BNT) Debut: 2005 Best Finish: 4th place (2007) Number of Entries: 10 Worst Finish: 4th place (2007) A Brief History: Bulgaria returns after a two year absence on the heels of hosting the Junior ESC. Bulgaria has qualified for the Final only once, but has come close on several occasions. Song Title: Performing Artist: Composer(s): , S. Arman, J. Persson Lyricist(s): Borislav Milanov, S. Arman, J. Persson About the Performing Artist: Genova is returning to the Contest after competing in 2011 with and hosting the Junior ESC last year in . In addition to singing and hosting, she is also an accomplished stage actress and does charitable work with Bulgaria's UNICEF. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 13 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Croatia Competing Broadcaster: (HRT) Debut: 1993 Best Finish: 4th (1996, 1999) Number of Entries: 22 Worst Finish: 21st (2008) A Brief History: Like Bulgaria, Croatia returns after a two year absence from the Contest. Croatia has seen limited success throughout the years, but has qualified for the Final more often than not. Song Title: Lighthouse Performing Artist: Nina Kraljić Composer(s): Andreas Grass & Nikola Paryla Lyricist(s): Andreas Grass & Nikola Paryla About the Performing Artist: Kraljić first came to prominence when she finished tenth in Croatia's Got Talent . She went on to university, before returning to professional music by winning Croatia's The Voice in 2015. She has gone on to receive three prestigious award nominations. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 05 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Cyprus Competing Broadcaster: Cyprus Broadcasting Corporation (CBC) Debut: 1981 Best Finish: 5th (1982, 1997, 2004 Number of Entries: 33 Worst Finish: Last (1986) A Brief History: Cyprus has had moderate success, finishing in the Top Ten nine times. However, the island nation has also finished midtable nine times and bottom of the table/non-qualification fourteen times. Song Title: Alterego Performing Artist: Minus One Composer(s): Thomas G:son, Minus One Lyricist(s): Thomas G:son, Minus One About the Performing Artist: Minus One consists of Francois Micheletto, Constantinos Amerikanos, Harrys Pari, Chris J., and Antonis Loizides. Micheletto competed in France's 2015 The Voice . G:son has composed 12 entries for ESC, including winner Euphoria . Semi-Final One, Song Number 11 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Czech Republic Competing Broadcaster: Česká Televize (ČT) Debut: 2007 Best Finish: N/A Number of Entries: 5 Worst Finish: N/A A Brief History: The Czech Republic has not had any success, where its greatest success was achieving 13th place in 2015's second semi-final. In 2016, ČT hopes a new, young production team can bring fortune. Song Title: I Stand Performing Artist: Gabriela Gunčíková Composer(s): Christian Schneider, Sara Biglert Lyricist(s): Aidan O'Connor, Sara Biglert About the Performing Artist: Gunčíková was a finalist in Czech's SuperStar and, in 2011, she won the Český Slavík "New Artist" award. In 2013, she studied in at the famed Ken Tamplin Vocal Academy. Since then, she has toured with the Trans-Siberian Orchestra. Semi-Final One, Song Number Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: Dansk Radio (DR) Debut: 1957 Best Finish: 1st place (1963, 2000, 2013) Number of Entries: 45 Worst Finish: Last (2002) A Brief History: The first Danish victory was wrapped in controversy and is the reason why votes are counted prior to their announcement. It's second win was one of the victors with the lowest betting odds. Song Title: Soldiers of Love Performing Artist: Composer(s): Søren Bregendel, Johannes Nymark, Martin Skriver, Lyricist(s): Sebastian Owens, Daniel Durn, Katrine Klith Andersen About the Performing Artist: Lighthouse X consists of Søren Bregendel, Johannes Nymark, and Martin Skriver. The three friends came together in 2014 to make a band that promotes positivity. They are active in various charitable and social justice events. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 14 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Estonia Competing Broadcaster: Eesti Rahvusringhäling (ERR) Debut: 1994 Best Finish: 1st place (2001) Number of Entries: 21 Worst Finish: 2nd last (1994, 2011) A Brief History: Estonia is notorious for having, what many deem to be, the worst winning song in ESC history (a title they compete with for). Other than 2001, Estonia has five other Top Ten finishes. Song Title: Play Performing Artist: Jüri Pootsmann Composer(s): Stig Rästa, Vallo Kikas, Fred Krieger Lyricist(s): Stig Rästa, Vallo Kikas, Fred Krieger About the Performing Artist: Pootsmann is the 2015 Estonian Idol champion and was recently named "Best Male Act" at the Estonian Music Awards. Pootsman is a confessed ESC fan and counts his participation as a dream come true and the next step in his career. Semi-Final One, Song Number 13 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: Yleisradio/Rundradion (YLE) Debut: 1961 Best Finish: 1st place (2006) Last (1963, 1965, 1968, 1980, 1982, Number of Entries: 49 Worst Finish: 1990, 1992, 1996, 2009) A Brief History: Finland’s participation in the ESC has not been a very successful endeavor; there have been only a few moments of brightness, including a surprise landslide victory in 2006 with hard rock band . Song Title: Performing Artist: [Sandhja Kuivalainen] Composer(s): Heikki Korhonen, Markus Savijoki, Milos Rosas, Petri Matara, Sandhja Kuivalainen Lyricist(s): Sandhja Kuivalainen, Petri Matara, Milos Rosas, Markus Savijoki About the Performing Artist: Sandhja has a Finnish father and an Indo- Guyanan mother and grew up in . She is a world traveler and uses her adventures as inspiration for her music. She just released her second album after seeing moderate success and two top 20 hits on her Semi-Final One, Song Number 01 Grand Final, Song Number TBD France Competing Broadcaster: France 3 1st place (1958, 1960, 1962, Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1969, 1977) Number of Entries: 59 Worst Finish: Last (2014) A Brief History: France has only missed two Contests to date. France is at the center of both ties that have occurred in ESC, both of which would have resulted in a lone French victory under current rules (1969 was a four way tie, in 1991 was awarded the win under the old tie- break rules). Song Title: J'ai Cherché [I've Searched] Performing Artist: Amir [] Composer(s): Nazim Khaled, Amir Haddad, Johan Errami Lyricist(s): Nazim Khaled, Amir Haddad About the Performing Artist: Amir has a diverse ethnic background, with roots to Morocco, , Tunisia, and . He was born with hearing only in his left ear. He competed on Kokhad Nolad (Israeli Idol) and finished in third on France's The Voice . Amir left a career in dental surgery to pursue music. Voting in Semi-Final One Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Georgia Competing Broadcaster: Georgia Public Broadcasting (GPB) Debut: 2007 Best Finish: 9th place (2010, 2011) Number of Entries: 9 Worst Finish: 15th place (2013) A Brief History: Georgia has achieved respectable finishes through its first eight entries. In 2012, Georgia failed to reach the Final for the first, and so far only, time. Song Title: Performing Artist: Nika Kocharov and Young Georgian Lolitaz Composer(s): Kote Kalandadze, Thomas G:Son Lyricist(s): Kote Kalandadze About the Performing Artist: YGL consists of Nika Kocharov (singer), Levan Shanshiashvili (guitar), Giorgi Marr (bass), and Dimitri Ognesian (drums). The band has an EP, The Lava , as well as a full length album Lemonjuice , both released in the early 2000s. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 16 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Germany Competing Broadcaster: Norddeutscher Rundfunk (NDR) Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1st place (1982, 2010) Number of Entries: 61 Worst Finish: Last (2015) A Brief History: Germany is the only country to take part in every single Contest; however, it has only won twice. Though, it has three second-places, five third-places, and 15 other Top Ten finishes. Germany’s missing of the final in 1996 inspired the adoption of the Big Four (now Big Five) rule giving the countries with five largest tv audiences automatic qualification. Song Title: Ghost Performing Artist: Jamie-Lee [Jamie-Lee Kriewitz] Composer(s): Anna Leyne, Thomas Burchia, Conrad Hensel Lyricist(s): Anna Leyne About the Performing Artist: Fresh off her victory on The Voice this past December, Jamie-Lee stormed to victory in Unser Lied f ür with the song that brought her victory on Voice . She is a big fan of Japanese Decora Kei style and manga as well as K-pop. Voting in Semi-Final Two Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Greece Competing Broadcaster: Hellenic Broadcasting Corporation (ERT) Debut: 1974 Best Finish: 1st place (2005) Number of Entries: 36 Worst Finish: 3rd Last (1985, 1990) A Brief History: Until coming 17th in 2012, Greece was the only country to reach the Top Ten every year in the Semi-Final Era (since 2004). Greece has since had difficulty, reaching the Top Ten only once since last doing so in 2011. Song Title: Utopia Land Performing Artist: Argo Composer(s): Vladimiros Sofianides Lyricist(s): Vladimiros Sofianides About the Performing Artist: Formerly Europond, the band Argo has six members: Vladimiros Sofianides, Christina Lachana, Konstantinos Topouzis, Alekos Papadopoulos, Maria Elbrus and Elias Kesides. They bring a mix of traditional Pontic Greek folk sounds with modern urban beats. Semi-Final One, Song Number 02 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Hungary Competing Broadcaster: Magyar Televízio (MTV) Debut: 1994 Best Finish: 4th place (1994) Number of Entries: 15 Worst Finish: 2nd Last (1995) A Brief History: Hungary has inconsistently participated since joining the Contest in 1994, but has not missed a Final since rejoining in 2012. Hungary has four Top Ten finishes, 1994, 2007, 2013, and 2014. Song Title: Pioneers Performing Artist: Freddie [Gábor Alfréd Fehérvári] Composer(s): Szabó Zé Lyricist(s): Borbála Csarnai About the Performing Artist: Freddie began his music career by placing fourth on Hungary's version of . Before entering music, Freddie was a rising basketball player before an injury made him leave the sport. His education is in hotel management. Semi-Final One, Song Number 04 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: Ríkisútvarpið (RÚV) Debut: 1986 Best Finish: 2nd place (1999, 2009) Number of Entries: 29 Worst Finish: Last (1989, 2001) A Brief History: Of the five Nordic countries, Iceland has the fewest participations and is the only one that has yet to win. Iceland’s 2009 second place finish garnered the most points of any Icelandic entry. Song Title: Performing Artist: Greta Salóme [Greta Salóme Stefánsdóttir] Composer(s): Greta Salóme Stefánsdóttir Lyricist(s): Greta Salóme Stefánsdóttir About the Performing Artist: Salóme is returning to the Contest after representing Iceland in 2012 alongside Jónsi. She is an accomplished violinist, having picked up the instrument at age 4. She released her debut album in 2012 and has been headlining a cruise since then. Semi-Final One, Song Number 16 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Radio Teilifís Éireann (RTÉ) 1st place (1970, 1980, 1987, 1992, Debut: 1965 Best Finish: 1993, 1994, 1996) Number of Entries: 50 Worst Finish: Last (2007, 2013) A Brief History: The Emerald Isle holds the record for most wins, having hoisted the trophy seven times. Only one performer has won the Contest twice: Johnny Logan, who was the singer for both wins in the 80s. Logan also has two wins as a , his own song in 1987 and the Irish winner of 1992. Song Title: Feel the Sunlight Performing Artist: Composer(s): Nicky Byrne, , Lyricist(s): Nicky Byrne, Wayne Hector, Ronan Hardiman About the Performing Artist: Byrne is an accomplished goalkeeper, having competed on Ireland's national minor teams and played professionally with Leeds United. After that, he joined the boy band , where they 14 #1 songs in the UK over 14 years. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 07 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Israel Competing Broadcaster: Israel Broadcasting Authority (IBA) Debut: 1973 Best Finish: 1st place (1978, 1979, 1998) Number of Entries: 40 Worst Finish: 2nd Last (1986, 1993, 2006) A Brief History: Israel has competed every year since joining the ESC, except once. In 1980, Israel became the first (and only) winner not to defend its title; the country withdrew after the EBU set the date for the 1980 Contest to fall on the Israeli Day of Remembrance. Israel was also the first country to win with televoting in 1998. Song Title: Performing Artist: [Hovav Sekulets] Composer(s): Doron Medalie Lyricist(s): Doron Medalie About the Performing Artist: Star's music career began in 2009 when he placed seventh on Kokhav Nolad (Israeli Idol). Sekulets is a trained hair stylist and makeup artist. In addition to music, he is also passionate about fashion. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 04 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Radiotelevisione Italiana (RAI) Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1st place (1964, 1990) Number of Entries: 42 Worst Finish: Last (1966) A Brief History: After a 13 year gap, Italy returned to the Contest in 2011 and brought home second place. Despite its absence, Italy remains one of the most successful ESC countries, with 26 Top Ten finishes. Song Title: No Degree of Separation Performing Artist: Composer(s): Fabio Gargiulo, , Cheope Lyricist(s): Francesca Michielin, Federica Abbate, Norma Jean Martine About the Performing Artist: Michielin won the Italian X-Factor at the age of 16 and achieved double platinum status with her debut single. Her two albums have both had strong success in Italy and she got 2nd place at San Remo in 2016. She grew up playing piano and bass. Voting in Semi-Final Two Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Latvia Competing Broadcaster: Latvijas Televïzija (LTV) Debut: 2000 Best Finish: 1st place (2002) Number of Entries: 16 Worst Finish: 2nd Last (2003) A Brief History: Latvia is often referred to as the weakest winner in ESC history. Though, it had one of the lowest betting odds of any winner. Latvia’s has three Top Ten finishes, 2000, 2002, and 2015. Song Title: Heartbeat Performing Artist: Justs [Justs Sirmais] Composer(s): Aminata Savadogo Lyricist(s): Aminata Savadogo About the Performing Artist: A traveling singer, Justs has toured with several bands around Latvia and Europe, but this marks his debut as a solo artist. He is currently attending university to become a vocal coach with the goal of opening a music school. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 01 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Lietuvos Nacionalinis Radijas ir Televizija (LRT) Debut: 1994 Best Finish: 6th place (2006) Number of Entries: 16 Worst Finish: Last (1994, 2005) A Brief History: After Estonia won in 2001, and Latvia in 2002, eyes turned to LIT to continue the Baltic’s streak in 2003, but the luck had run out. LIT’s only Top Ten placing was 2006’s . Song Title: Waiting for Tonight Performing Artist: Composer(s): Jonas Thander, Beatrice Robertsson Lyricist(s): Jonas Thander, Beatrice Robertsson About the Performing Artist: Montell returns to ESC after previously representing LIT in 2012 with Love is . He has successfully competed in various music and dance festivals across Eastern Europe and remains one LIT's most popular celebrities. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 09 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals (Former Yugoslav Republic of) Macedonia Competing Broadcaster: Makedonska Radio Televizija (MKRT) Debut: 1998 Best Finish: 12th place (2006) Number of Entries: 17 Worst Finish: 19th place (1998, 2002) A Brief History: Macedonia has a history of being just short of qualifying for the Final; twice it has fallen one place short. It's biggest successes remain 12th place in 2006 and 13th place in 2012. Song Title: Dona Performing Artist: Composer(s): Romeo Grill Lyricist(s): Kaliopi About the Performing Artist: Kaliopi returns to the Contest after previously representing Macedonia in 1996 and 2012. She has been a major player in the Macedonian pop and rock scenes since the 80s, when she and her ex-husband, Romeo Grill, first met. This is the second ESC Semi-Final Two, Song Number 08 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) Debut: 1971 Best Finish: 2nd place (2002, 2005) Number of Entries: 29 Worst Finish: Last (1971, 1972, 2006) A Brief History: Despite its tiny size and lack of success, Malta is one of the ESC’s most fervent countries. Additionally, an ESC legend, Chiara, hails from Malta; coming in 3rd in her first attempt, 2nd in her second, and bringing Malta to the Final in 2009 after two missed qualifications. Malta returned to the Top Ten in 2013 with pediatrician . Song Title: Walk on Water Performing Artist: Composer(s): Lisa Desmond, Tim Larsson, Tobias Lundgren, Molly Pettersson-Hammar, Ira Losco Lyricist(s): Lisa Desmond, Tim Larsson, Tobias Lundgren, Molly Pettersson-Hammar, Ira Losco

About the Performing Artist: Losco returns to ESC after representing Malta in 2002, the first time the country placed second. Her career in music and activism span 15 years. In 2008, she was awarded the Midalja għall-Qadi tar-Repubblika, a prestigious award for service to Malta for her work as an LGBTQ+ ally and activist and music career. Semi-Final One, Song Number 18 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Moldova Competing Broadcaster: Teleradio-Moldova (TRM) Debut: 2005 Best Finish: 6th place (2005) Number of Entries: 12 Worst Finish: 22nd place (2010) A Brief History: Moldova has qualified for the Final more often than not, but has only been in the Top Ten twice. This year, Moldova offered the Romanian performer the opportunity to join their singer on stage after was disqualified.

Song Title: Falling Stars Performing Artist: Lidia Isac Composer(s): Gabriel Alares, Sebastian Lestapier, Ellen Berg, Leonid Gutkin Lyricist(s): Gabriel Alares, Sebastian Lestapier, Ellen Berg, Leonid Gutkin About the Performing Artist: Isac is a seasoned competitor, starting piano at age seven and singing in international competitions since the age of 13. She has finally won the right to represent her country on her fourth attempt. Semi-Final One, Song Number 03 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Montenegro Competing Broadcaster: Radio Televizija Crne Gore (RTCG) Debut: 2007 Best Finish: 13th place (2015) Number of Entries: 8 Worst Finish: 19th place (2014) A Brief History: In its first five attempts, MNG failed to reach the Final, but has qualified each of the last two years. The Montenegrin band No Name reached 7th place for Serbia & Montenegro in 2005. Song Title: Real Thing Performing Artist: Highway Composer(s): Skansi, Luka Vojvodić, Maro Market Lyricist(s): Srdjan Sekulovic Skansi About the Performing Artist: Highway formed in 2015 to compete in X-Factor Adria , finishing in fourth place. The band consists of Petar Tošić (lead vocals), Marko Pešić (guitar and backing vocals), Luka Vojvodić (guitar and backing vocals), and Bojan Jovović (piano). Semi-Final One, Song Number 15 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals The Competing Broadcaster: AVROTROS Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1st place (1957, 1959, 1975) Number of Entries: 58 Worst Finish: Last (1958, 1962, 1963, 1968)

A Brief History: The Dutch broke their curse in 2013 year, qualifying for the Final for the first time since 2004 and finishing in the Top Ten for the first time since 1998 on the back of Anouk's Birds . They followed this with a second place in 2014, their best finish since winning in 1975. Song Title: Slow Down Performing Artist: [Douwe Bob Posthuma] Composer(s): Douwe Bob Posthuma, Jan-Peter Hoekstra, Jeroen Overman, Matthijs van Duijvenbode Lyricist(s): Douwe Bob Posthuma, Jan-Peter Hoekstra, Jeroen Overman About the Performing Artist: Bob rose to prominence after winning the show De beste singer-songwriter van Nederland in 2012. He has already seen success in his first two albums; both charted in the Top Ten on the . His third album was released on the 6 May 2016. Semi-Final One, Song Number 06 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: Norsk Rikskringkasting (NRK) Debut: 1960 Best Finish: 1st place (1985, 1995, 2009) Last (1963, 1969, 1974, 1976, 1978, 1981, Number of Entries: 53 Worst Finish: 1990, 1997, 2001, 2004, 2012) A Brief History: While Norway has three of the Contest’s most popular winners and holds the record for the highest point total, it also holds the records for most last place finishes (11) as well as for most “null points.” Song Title: Icebreaker Performing Artist: Agnete [Agnete K. Johnsen] Composer(s): Agnete K. Johnsen, Gabriel Alares and Ian Curnow Lyricist(s): Agnete K. Johnsen, Gabriel Alares and Ian Curnow About the Performing Artist: Agnete is one of the few performers from a First Nations (Sami) to compete at ESC. She first rose to prominence when her group The BlackSheeps won Junior in 2008 and hit #1 on the Norwegian chart. They placed second at Melodi Grand Prix in 2011. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 15 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Poland Competing Broadcaster: (TVP) Debut: 1994 Best Finish: 2nd place (1994) Number of Entries: 19 Worst Finish: 2nd Last (2008) A Brief History: Poland, which has participated inconsistently, is still seeking to duplicate the success of its debut entry having qualified for the Final only four times since they were introduced in 2004. Song Title: Performing Artist: Michaeł Szpak Composer(s): Andy Palmer Lyricist(s): Kamil Varen About the Performing Artist: Is a veteran competitor, having won his first music festival at age 9. He has competed throughout Europe, often winning or placing well. His commercial music career began in 2011 when he came second in the Polish X-Factor . Semi-Final Two, Song Number 02 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Russia Competing Broadcaster: Channel One Russia Debut: 1994 Best Finish: 1st place (2008) Number of Entries: 20 Worst Finish: 16th place (2011) A Brief History: Up to 2008, Russia was the most successful country without a win, having six Top Ten finishes in eleven attempts. Russia finally won in 2008 on ’s second try, with the song Believe . Song Title: You Are the Only One Performing Artist: Composer(s): , Philip Kirkorov Lyricist(s): John Ballard, Ralph Charlie About the Performing Artist: After a successful career in the group Smash!!, Lazarev began his solo career in 2004. He has gone on to achieve great success, winning various music awards and having top selling albums. He is an accomplished voice actor and owns a small business making pet food. Semi-Final One, Song Number 09 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals San Marino Competing Broadcaster: Radiotelevisione della Repubblica di San Marino (SMRTV) Debut: 2008 Best Finish: 24th place (2014) Number of Entries: 7 Worst Finish: 24th place (2014) A Brief History: San Marino has only qualified for the Final once, on 's third (consecutive) attempt. 2016 marks the first time since 2011 that SM will have a song not composed by ESC legend . Song Title: I Didn't Know Performing Artist: Serhat [Ahmet Serhat Hacıpaşalıoğlu] Composer(s): Olcayto Ahmet Tuğsuz Lyricist(s): Nektarios Tyrakis About the Performing Artist: Serhat, this year's oldest lead performer at 51, is an accomplished singer, actor, producer, and tv host. He hosted and produced Riziko , the Turkish version of Jeopardy! He is most known for his high energy songs, recently reaching the UK and Germany dance charts with his song Je M'Adore . Semi-Final One, Song Number 08 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Serbia Competing Broadcaster: x Debut: 2007 Best Finish: 1st place (2007) Number of Entries: 9 Worst Finish: 14th place (2011) A Brief History: Serbia won the Contest with its debut as an independent nation in 2007 with the song . Since then, Serbia has three Top Ten finishes and has qualified five out of seven times. Song Title: (Shelter) Performing Artist: Jelena Vučić ZAA Composer(s): Lyricist(s): Ivana Peters About the Performing Artist: Vučić is a young performer, but has trained in various music styles, including opera. She is currently at university for Arabic. Vučić has been the lead singer of ZAA since 2008 and retains the band name even though she is performing as a solo act. Semi-Final Two, Song Number Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Competing Broadcaster: Radiotelevizijia Slovenija (RTV SLO) Debut: 1993 Best Finish: 7th place (1995, 2001) Number of Entries: 21 Worst Finish: 3rd Last (1993, 2003)

A Brief History: Slovenia has had few notable entries to the Contest, neither winning nor coming in last in the Final. Slovenia’s most popular entry remains 2001’s Energy . Additionally, many heads turned in 2002 when three of Slovenia’s top drag queens performed . Song Title: and Red Performing Artist: ManuElla [Manuela Brečko] Composer(s): Manuella Brechko, Marjan Hvala Lyricist(s): Leon Oblak About the Performing Artist: ManuElla is a resilient performer, continuing on through competitions, eventually winning the right to represent Slovenia after losing her father in 2014. She is a multi- instrumentalist, playing the accordion, guitar, and bass. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 11 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Spain Competing Broadcaster: Television Española (TVE) Debut: 1961 Best Finish: 1st place (1968, 1969) Number of Entries: 56 Worst Finish: Last (1962, 1965, 1983, 1999)

A Brief History: Spain debuted while Franco still ruled the country and was trying to gain acceptance in the rest of Europe. It wasn’t until the contentious victory of 1968 that it came into its own, scoring 22 Top Ten finishes (incl. a second victory) since. Song Title: Say Hey! Performing Artist: Barei [Bárbara Reyzábal González-Aller] Composer(s): Barei, Ruben Villanueva & Victor Pua Lyricist(s): Barei, Ruben Villanueva & Victor Pua About the Performing Artist: Singer-songwriter Barei has been making a name for herself in the Spanish music scene. After competing in the Benidorm Song Festival at 18, she moved to Miami where she began to develop herself as a musician and singer. In the years since her return to Spain, she has released two albums and performed around the country.

Voting in Semi-Final One Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Sweden Competing Broadcaster: (STV) 1st place (1974, 1983, 1991, Debut: 1958 Best Finish: 1999, 2012, 2015) Number of Entries: 56 Worst Finish: Last (1963, 1977) A Brief History: Sweden is known for many things, not the least of which being ABBA (1974); Waterloo remains one of the most popular ESC songs ever. Sweden is the only country to win after a tie (1991) and has the highest rated national selection: Melodifestevalen . It has missed only two Finals, 1976 (sat out in fear of winning and having to host) and 2010. Sweden sits second overall with six wins. Song Title: Performing Artist: Frans [] Composer(s): Frans Jeppsson Wall, Fredrik Andersson, Michael Saxell, Oscar Fogelström Lyricist(s): Frans Jeppsson Wall, Fredrik Andersson, Michael Saxell, Oscar Fogelström About the Performing Artist: At 17, Frans is this year's youngest lead performer. He first achieved at age seven, when he sung Who's Da Man in honor of footballer Zlatan Ibrahimović. In 2008, he released another successful song for the Swedish national team Fotbollsfest . Voting in Semi-Final One Grand Final, Song Number 09 Competing Broadcaster: SSR SRG Debut: 1956 Best Finish: 1st place (1956, 1987) Number of Entries: 57 Worst Finish: Last (1964, 1967, 1974, 1998, A Brief History: The Swiss started off with a bang, winning the2011) first Contest, held on home soil in Lugano. They returned to the winner’s circle in 1987 on the back of a rising star from Canada: . Since 2004, CH has only been in four Finals. Song Title: Last of Our Kind Performing Artist: [Christina Maria Rieder] Composer(s): Rieder/James/Dawson/Livesey Lyricist(s): Rieder/James/Dawson/Livesey About the Performing Artist: Canadian by birth, but Swiss by lineage, Rykka is a singer- songwriter that has worked to find her voice amid an array of music genres. At 15, she learned guitar, by 22, she was releasing her third independent album, and within a year, she had moved to Switzerland where her album was gaining popularity. By 2012, she released her first commercial album and began her professional career in earnest. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 03 Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals Ukraine Competing Broadcaster: Natsionalna Telekomaniya Ukrainy (NTU) Debut: 2003 Best Finish: 1st place (2004) Number of Entries: 13 Worst Finish: 18th place (2005) A Brief History: Despite its relatively low number of entries, Ukraine has proven itself a force to be reckoned with; collecting a win, two second-places, and another five Top Ten places. Song Title: 1944 Performing Artist: [Susana Jamaladynova] Composer(s): Jamala Lyricist(s): Jamala About the Performing Artist: Jamala is the daughter of a Crimean Tatar father and an Armenian mother. Jamala's released her first album at 9, a collection of Crimean Tatar children folk songs. She is classically trained in opera, but focused on pop music after winning an international festival for young pop singers. Semi-Final Two, Song Number 14 Grand Final, Song Number TBD Competing Broadcaster: British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) 1st place (1967, 1969, 1978, Debut: 1957 Best Finish: 1982, 1998) Number of Entries: 60 Worst Finish: Last (2003, 2008, 2010) A Brief History: The UK, while tied for second in the wins column, stands above the rest when it comes to total success: five wins, 14 second-places, three third-places, and 14 other Top Ten finishes. Song Title: You're Not Alone Performing Artist: Joe & Jake Composer(s): Matt Schwartz, Justin J Benson, S. Kanes Lyricist(s): Matt Schwartz, Justin J Benson, S. Kanes About the Performing Artist: Joe Woolford and Jake Shakeshaft met on The Voice UK in 2015, quickly becoming friends. Both had previously competed in smaller music competitions previously. Woolford is Welsh and speaks English as a second language. Shakeshaft is English and studied music technology in school. Voting in Semi-Final Two Grand Final, Song Number TBD

Copyright 2016 Eurovision Obsession Artists' names and information comes from Eurovision.tv *Number of entries includes 2016 **Best and worst finishes only includes Grand Finals