After an spectacular debut in 2008 with “Day After Day” performed by Elnur & Samir, it’s the second time for Azerbaijan in the Eurovision Song Contest. Without any doubt, we can say that this is a big gain for the contest to have countries like Azerbaijan, Georgia and Armenia in the ESC. Even if these three countries officially located in Asia, as well as Israel and Cyprus, they are all members of the EBU and are allowed to take part. Opening the event for more countries has often been criticized, but due to the fact that these countries bring all their enthusiasm, effort and creativity to this unique event, we should not care about geographical borders, but open our hearts and be happy to have such a great variety of music.

“Always” is this years’ song from Azerbaijan, sung by the duo Asyel and Arash. This is a very exotic and interesting entry, with a catchy chorus and an optimistic melody. The song will completely being sung in English and the whole arrangement of the song appears very internationally, it sounds like a summer song with potential being a summer hit. In the video clip you can watch a very well choreographed perfomance, which reminds a bit of Helena Paparizou’s winning entry “Number One” – with flying hair and swinging skirts. Asyel and Arash really seem to be very sympathetic and have the necessary “winning smile” in their faces, that’s what Eurovision winners need to have. As the song unites style elements from Eastern Europe and the Mediterranean, this entry will receive many points for sure. The Asian-inspired interlude is exactly what this song is about and what 500 million watchers around the globe will be wowed. This is a big favorite. Congratulations!