The people of Iceland have always displayed an immense enthusiasm for the Eurovision Song Contest, with the event having been broadcasted in the country for a significant amount of time. However, live transmission was not possible until 1986, which marked Iceland’s debut in the competition with the song “Gleðibankinn” by the group Icy. This entry has since become a cult classic and is often sung at Eurovision parties, particularly in Iceland. It is heartening to observe that Iceland has emerged as a formidable contender in the competition, showcasing a great deal of energy and producing quality songs.

Iceland has qualified for the final of the Eurovision Song Contest 27 times and has managed to secure a place in the Top 10 on seven occasions. The probability of Iceland reaching one of the Top 10 places is 21%. The country has achieved a fantastic second place twice in the past, in 1999 and 2009.

In more recent years, Iceland has enjoyed a degree of success in the Eurovision Song Contest by reaching the Grand Finals. However, this achievement cannot be taken for granted. During the most recent contest, some band members of Daði og Gagnamagnið tested positive for COVID-19 and had to be isolated in their hotel. Despite this setback, the group managed to secure a commendable 4th place in the competition, owing in part to the backup video that was shown in lieu of a live performance.

One of the most intriguing aspects of Iceland’s participation in the Eurovision Song Contest is the remarkable creativity and musical talent that seems to emanate from such a small country with a population of around 330,000 people. It is worth noting that Icelandic music, in general, has become quite popular around the world. Some of the most popular Icelandic singers and bands include Björk, Sigur Rós, Mezzoforte, and GusGus, the latter of whom is better known as Daníel Augúst Haraldsson, who represented Iceland in the Eurovision Song Contest in 1989 with the song “Það Sem Enginn Sér” and finished in last place.