Over the past decade, Germany’s entries in the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) have faced significant challenges, with four entries finishing in last place and three others landing in 25th. However, there have been a couple of bright spots: Michael Schulte achieved 4th place with “You Let Me Walk Alone” in Lisbon 2018 and Isaak secured 12th place with “Always On the Run” in Malmö 2024.

This year marks the final time that the broadcaster NDR will oversee the ESC; starting next year, SWR will take over this important role. NDR has been at the helm since 1996, so a change was certainly due.

Stefan Raab, a well-known TV producer and presenter, played a key role in Germany’s second victory in 2010 with Lena’s “Satellite,” working alongside NDR to organize the national final. He also contributed to the success of Guildo Horn’s “Guildo Hat Euch Lieb” (7th place in Birmingham 1998), Max Mutzke’s “Can’t Wait Until Tonight” (8th place in Istanbul 2004) and even performed himself with “Wadde Hadde Dudde Da” (5th place in Stockholm 2000).

In light of Germany’s recent struggles in the competition, Stefan Raab has stepped in once again, bringing his expertise and passion for the ESC to the forefront. He has titled the upcoming show “Chefsache ESC 2025 – Wer singt für Deutschland?” with the goal of securing a third victory for Germany.

The national final has generated considerable media interest, featuring two preliminary rounds, a semi-final, and a Grand Final. A total of 3,281 songs were submitted, from which a panel selected 24 entries. In the initial shows, contestants performed cover songs, while the semi-final showcased potential ESC entries, with nine songs advancing to tonight’s Grand Final. An expert jury, including Stefan Raab, has played a role in selecting the songs, and public votes will only be counted in the super final round.

There has been a procedural change, as an expert jury will also be involved in the Grand Final, which may suggest that Stefan Raab has reservations about public voting. This could potentially impact fan favourites like Feuerschwanz. The ARD (German Television – first channel) has made it clear that Germany aims to win; if Stefan Raab does not succeed, there may be no further collaboration in 2026.

The show will be hosted by the experienced Barbara Schöneberger and will be broadcast from the TV studios in Hürth, near Cologne, Germany.

You can watch the “Chefsache ESC 2025” on the YouTube channel at 20.15 CET.

These are the finalists with their semi-final performances:

1 Feuerschwanz – “Knightclub”

2 Benjamin Braatz – “Like You Love Me”

3 COSBY – “I’m Still Here”

4 Abor & Tynna – “Baller”

5 LEONORA – “This Bliss”

6 JULIKA – “Empress”

7 Lyza – “Lovers on Mars”

8 Moss Kena – “Nothing Can Stop Love”

9 The Great Leslie – “These Days“