Since Azerbaijan’s debut in the Eurovision Song Contest in 2008, the country has had a remarkable success story. Their first entry, “Day After Day” by Elnur & Samir, made a lasting impression and earned a respectable 8th place in Belgrade. Despite the song’s dramatic on-stage performance and high notes, it served as a memorable debut for Azerbaijan and left a lasting impression in the minds of Eurovision fans.

Azerbaijan has been a remarkable success story in its relatively short history of participating in the Eurovision Song Contest. Out of the 14 times it has taken part, Azerbaijan has made it to the Grand Final for the most part, with seven Top 10 finishes in this short period of time. The country has a 50% chance of achieving a Top 10 place statistically, although this has been a little more challenging since 2014, possibly due to stricter voting controls. Nevertheless, Azerbaijan’s success in reaching the Grand Final stands at an impressive 93%, having done so every year since their debut. Only once did Azerbaijan fail to make it to the final, in 2018 with Aisel Mammadova’s “X My Heart”. In the 2021 contest held in Rotterdam, Efendi‘s outstanding song and performance of “Mata Hari” earned a respectable 20th place in the final. That proofs that songs from Azerbaijan, no matter how good they are, can shape up badly.

The Eurovision Song Contest has gained significant importance in Azerbaijan and generates a tremendous amount of interest throughout the country. It also serves as an excellent platform for the Azerbaijani music industry to showcase their talents on an international level.

It is true that the votes from ex-Soviet countries played a significant role in Azerbaijan’s success at the Eurovision Song Contest. However, it is also important to note that the country has consistently presented modern and high-quality performances that showcase their unique cultural identity. Despite the use of English as the primary language, the songs often incorporate elements of Azeri culture, thanks in part to collaborations with international composers. In fact, Azerbaijan’s entry in 2011, “Running Scared” by Ell & Nikki, won the competition. The country’s hosting of the event in 2012 in the impressive Crystal Hall, which was specially built for the occasion, was a major achievement supported by the highest levels of government. The ESC in Baku was also noteworthy for being the most south-eastern edition of the contest to date, and its stunning visual spectacle remains a fond memory for many people.