Introduction

Estonia had a national selection like in former years; even with two semi finals. The quality of the songs has been very high, compared to other country’s finals. Therefore many of the Estonian finalists could have been very good ambassadors for the international contest in Baku. There were many really contemporary songs from electro to pop. At the end a wonderful ballad has gained the majority (32%) of the votes: “Kuula” by Ott Lepland. Facing the fact that there will be quite a lot of fast songs in the ESC this year, Estonia will definitely catch the viewers’ eyes. The beautiful song “Kuula” which means “listen” and it is one of the great ballads this year, performed in a very professional and emotional way by the young singer.

Last year’s winning song “Running scared” from Azerbaijan has also been a calmer song and “Molitva” by Marija Šerifović for Serbia has been the winning song in 2007 – a ballad as well. With this entry Estonia could even win the Eurovision Song Contest, it’s stunning and touching. Well done Estonia!

History

This year it will be the 18^th time for Estonia participating in the Eurovision Song Contest. The debut entry in 1994 “Nagu Merelaine” by Silvi Vrait came 24^th only, but after this not very successful start in the ESC, Estonia became very much stronger. A lot of good places could be reached, even in the top 10. Until the guys named Tanel Padar and Dave Benton surprised with a splendid performance “Everybody” in 2001 and for the first time in history Estonia and likewise first Eastern European country could win the ESC.

The year after the Estonian broadcaster ETV has organized a wonderful event in the capital of Tallinn. The most successful songs from Estonia were: “Rändajad” by Urban Symphony in 2009 (6^th), “Runaway” by Sahléne in 2002 (3^rd) and “Once in a lifetime” by Ines in 2000 (4^th). Since the semi finals have been introduced in 2004, Estonia made it only twice into the grand final.