Eurovision Song Contest 2024 (Malmö, Sweden)

The 68th Eurovision Song Contest was held at Malmö Arena in Malmö, Sweden, on 7, 9, and 11 May 2024 (semi-finals and final). Malmö Arena (next to Hyllie station) is a 15,500-seat multi-use arena, hosting nine shows (including rehearsals/dress rehearsals) from 6–11 May. The arena was outfitted with a revolutionary 360° central stage: a cross-shaped platform surrounded by the audience, with movable LED cubes overhead, a full-LED floor, and a 1,000 m2 video canopy above. About 2,000 LED lighting fixtures (12 follow-spots) and exclusively LED/laser effects were used. The concept, inspired by the slogan “United by Music,” integrated dramatic light shows and video from all angles to immerse the crowd.

Fig: The 2024 Eurovision stage design in Malmö – a 360° central stage with movable LED cubes above the audience.

The contest kept the usual voting rules: each country awarded one set of 12, 10, 8–1 points in each semi-final, and two sets (televote + jury) in the final. Viewers from non-participating countries could vote online; their aggregated votes counted as a single “Rest of the World” set. The running order was decided by a draw, and the automatic finalists (host Sweden and the “Big Five”) still voted in the semis. Sweden’s state broadcaster SVT produced the show, led by Executive Producers Ebba Adielsson and Christel Tholse Willers, Contest Producer Christer Björkman, and Technical Director Ola Melzig. EBU's Supervisor Martin Österdahl oversaw the event.

Participating Countries and Acts

Thirty-seven countries participated. Each entry’s broadcaster and artist(s) are listed below, with key details. (Romania and Russia did not participate; the Netherlands qualified from semi-final 2 but was later disqualified from the final.)

* Albania (RTSH) – Besa (Besa Kokëdhima), solo singer. Besa (born 1994) is a pop-rock vocalist who won Albania’s Festivali i Këngës 62. Her song “TITAN” (writers Gia Koka, Alias Lj, Kledi Bahiti) is an empowerment anthem. She first gained attention in 2022 (single “Amelia” went viral on TikTok) and is known offstage for her humor and candidness. She likes long sleep (10–12 h) and admires past winners like Loreen.

* Armenia (AMPTV) – Ladaniva, duo of Jaklin Baghdasaryan and Louis Thomas. Ladaniva blends Armenian folk with pop. Jaklin (lead vocals) and Louis met at university; their name means “candy” and “beauty.” They previously had hits (e.g. “Shakar” with 14M YouTube views). Their song will emphasize freedom and crossing cultural boundaries. Both are excited to showcase Armenia’s culture and musical diversity.

* Australia (SBS) – Electric Fields, a duo of Zaachariaha Fielding (Pitjantjatjara singer) and Michael Ross (keyboardist/producer). Zaachariaha is Aboriginal (Mimili community); Michael is from southern Queensland. They fuse electronic pop with Indigenous elements. Their song, “One Mikali (One Blood),” features Pitjantjatjara language lyrics. They are known for high-energy live shows and advocacy of Indigenous culture.

* Austria (ORF) – Kaleen (Patricia Olivia Kuby), solo singer-songwriter. Kaleen (29) is an accomplished dancer (winner of 100+ competitions) turned pop artist. She runs her own label (WiFi Records) and released a debut album in 2023. Her Eurovision entry “We Will Rave” (co-written by Kaleen) is a euphoric pop rave track. She describes it as about finding a free, safe place in the music. Kaleen is outgoing and energetic, having studied psychology but chosen performance instead.

* Azerbaijan (İTV) – FAHREE feat. İlkin Dövlətov. Fahree (Kənan Eyyubov, 29) grew up in an artistic family (jazz drummer father, actor grandfather). He originally studied law but switched to music in 2020. He has a gritty pop-rock style incorporating mugham (traditional Azerbaijani music). His song “Özünlə apar” is a ballad with epic emotional flair. İlkin Dövlətov is featured on it. Fahree has spoken out for peace and unity, sharing Eurovision’s statement advocating solidarity. He is earnest and thoughtful, with a background in classical and jazz training (he studied at Baku Music Academy).

* Belgium (RTBF) – Mustii (Thomas Mustin). Mustii (born 1990) is a charismatic singer-actor. He has released two albums (“21st Century Boy,” “It’s Happening Now”) and starred in French-language films and stage productions. Mustii’s performance style is theatrical and energetic. His Eurovision song (title pending) is a dance-pop track; he often writes lyrics reflecting confidence and flair. Offstage he’s known for his witty personality and upcoming stint as a judge on Drag Race Belgium.

* Croatia (HRT) – Baby Lasagna (Marko Purišić). Marko (born 1995, age 28) is a rock musician from Istria. He was guitarist of metal band Manntra and cites influences from Rammstein to classical composers. His solo entry “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” (co-written by Marko) is a hard-rocker about longing and rootedness, reflecting on why he chose to stay in Croatia. Baby Lasagna performs with a cool, intense stage persona, wearing a samurai helmet in Istrian style (reflecting the song’s drama). He is outspoken about national pride and creativity.

* Cyprus (CyBC) – Silia Kapsis. Silia (born 2006; age 17) is a teen singer-songwriter of Greek Cypriot descent, raised in Australia. She is bilingual (Greek/English) and cites pop idols like Lana Del Rey and Björk. Her song “Liar” (written by top Eurovision composer Dimitris Kontopoulos) is a moody pop track about deception and identity. Silia has a shy-yet-determined character and was discovered online by Kontopoulos. She’s polite and focused, a young artist on the rise.

* Czech Republic (ČT) – Aiko (Aylin Tezel). Aiko (born 1996) is a singer of Turkish descent, raised in the UK (Brighton). She won the Czech national final with “Pedestal,” an empowerment anthem of independence. Aiko has a soulful voice; her debut album “Fortune’s Child” brought her fame. She embodies a cool, confident persona, blending Eastern and Western musical influences. She is also an actress and model and often channels a playful, free-spirited energy onstage.

* Denmark (DR) – SABA (Anna Saba). Saba (born 1997) is a Danish singer and model of mixed Danish-Ghanaian heritage. She made history as the first Black queer woman to represent Denmark. Saba wrote “SAND,” a soulful R&B ballad, about vulnerability and acceptance. She is outspoken about mental health (she lives with bipolar disorder) and LGBTQ+ issues. Saba’s image mixes street fashion with glam – she often wears bold, edgy outfits. She is warm and fearless, having performed in musical theatre (“Hair” in Sweden) and as an artistic director for “Vild med Dans” (Dancing with the Stars).

* Estonia (ERR) – 5miinust & Puuluup. This is a unique duet between 5miinust (an Estonian pop-rap band led by Aily Närg) and Puuluup (a folk duo of Ramo Teder and Marko Veisson, known for the talharpa instrument). They jointly perform a bass-heavy folk-fusion track “(Nendest) narkootikumidest ei tea me küll midagi” (roughly “(About) those drugs we know nothing”). The song sarcastically lists things they don’t want (e.g. drugs). Onstage, 5miinust’s rap energy combines with Puuluup’s rustic style (long coats, headscarves) and their talharpa, creating a dark fairytale vibe. The performers are down-to-earth and proud of Estonian tradition while pushing musical boundaries.

* Finland (Yle) – Windows95man (Teemu Keisteri). Teemu (born 1985) is a Helsinki-based DJ and artist. He began exhibiting art (including a gallery) before adopting the flamboyant alter-ego Windows95man, named after the 90s OS. His Eurovision song “No Rules!” is an ironic, maximalist dance track. Onstage, he’s known for retro-futuristic outfits (often a cropped jacket with neon details) and choreographed dance moves. He embodies a humorous, nostalgic geek persona and aims to make Finland’s contest performance a fun, weird spectacle.

* France (France Télévisions) – Slimane (Slimane Nebchi). Slimane (born 1989) is a Parisian singer-songwriter who won The Voice France in 2016. He has sold over 2 million albums and won multiple awards. His Eurovision entry is “Mon amour,” a powerful ballad (co-written with Joy Deb) about romantic devotion. Slimane is known for his emotional intensity onstage and soulful vocal style. Offstage he is relaxed and contemplative, influenced by chanteurs like Jacques Brel; he has said he’s honored to bring warmth and unity to the contest.

* Georgia (GPB) – Nutsa Buzaladze. Nutsa (born 1997) is a Tbilisi-born singer who grew up partly in Turkey and now lives in Dubai. She emerged via Georgian talent shows and has a dance-pop style. Her song “Firefighter” is an uptempo pop number. Nutsa is charismatic and energetic, often incorporating English lyrics. She studied singing from childhood and works as a model/dancer as well. She describes herself as hard-working and ambitious, bringing a vibrant performance to the stage.

* Germany (ARD/NDR) – Isaak (Isaak Guderian). Isaak (born 1997) is a singer from Hamm, Germany. He grew up busking at age 12 and taught himself guitar, piano, drums, and ukulele. He won Show Your Talent (ARD) in 2021. His song “Always On The Run” is an uptempo rock-pop track. Isaak is known for warm stage presence and sincerity; he performs with guitar in casual attire (often with a hat). He is married and describes himself as a family man and dreamer.

* Greece (ERT) – Marina Satti. Marina (born 1986 in Athens to Greek parents) is a singer-songwriter known for blending Greek and Middle Eastern musical elements. She has one album (YENNA, 2022) and has performed globally (jazz festivals, Kennedy Center). Her Eurovision song “ZARI” is a dramatic fusion track with Eastern percussion. Marina studied classical piano and jazz; her style onstage mixes modern and folk-inspired fashion. She is fierce and expressive, aiming to showcase Greek culture (especially the Pontic tradition) with confidence.

* Iceland (RÚV) – Hera Björk. Hera (born 1972) is a veteran Icelandic pop/dance singer. She represented Iceland in Eurovision 2010 (“Je Ne Sais Quoi”) and has a Broadway-caliber voice. “Scared of Heights” is her entry, an uptempo ballad. Hera often wears glamorous gowns onstage; she has a bold, confident persona. She has performed worldwide (even with Bobby McFerrin) and embraces theatrical flair. Her personality is vibrant and unstoppable, a seasoned performer who loves a big dramatic show.

* Ireland (RTÉ) – Bambie Thug. Bambie (Thomasina Robinson, born 1993) leads the band Doomsday Blue (goth-rock/pop). They are a queer alt-pop group (members: Bambie, Olivia Brooking, Sam Matlock, Tyler Ryder). Bambie’s style is dark and witchy; they describe themselves as a “goth gremlin” and “witch pop star”. Their song “Doomsday Blue” is a club beat anthem about overcoming prejudice. Bambie is outspoken about LGBTQ+ issues and mental health. Their onstage look mixes glam and goth (think dark makeup, leather, fishnets). They see themselves as underdogs, aiming to turn feelings of isolation into strength.

* Israel (Kan) – Eden Golan. Eden (born 2003) is a pop singer from Kfar Saba. She lived in Russia as a child and appeared on The Voice Kids Russia. She gained fame by winning HaKokhav HaBa (“The Next Star”) to become Israel’s representative. Her song “Hurricane” is an anthemic pop-rock track (in English and Hebrew). Eden’s style is energetic and edgy; she performs in bold, contemporary outfits and tattoos (she has visible tattoos on arms). She is described as passionate and outspoken – “Hurricane” was widely interpreted as referencing recent events, and Eden wants to bring resilience to the stage (the song’s lyrics about overcoming fear).

* Italy (RAI) – Angelina Mango. Angelina (born 2000) is a young singer-songwriter from Lagonegro (Basilicata). She is the daughter of two well-known Italian musicians (Mango and Matia Bazar’s Valente). She won Sanremo Giovani with “La noia” (“Boredom”) – a moody pop song exploring ennui and dreams. Angelina’s stage style is elegant/pop; she often wears chic dresses. She is described as heartfelt and introspective on stage. Despite her family legacy, she is carving her own path, writing personal lyrics about youth and freedom.

* Latvia (LTV) – Dons (Artūrs Šingirejs). Dons (born 1984, age 40) is one of Latvia’s top pop stars. He has released eight albums and won the Top Radio Hit award eight times. His entry “Hollow” is a dramatic ballad. Dons’s stage persona is smooth and charismatic; he’s known for powerful vocals and polished performance. Offstage, he’s seen as humble. He often performs in stylish suits and conveys deep emotion; many of his songs deal with love and personal reflection.

* Lithuania (LRT) – Silvester Belt (Silvestras Beltė). Silvester (born 1997, age 26) is a singer-songwriter from Vilnius. He debuted in talent show Šuolis and won the reality show I Am a Superhit in 2017. His song “Luktelk” is an EDM-tinged pop number. Silvester is openly and is Lithuania’s first LGBTQ+ Eurovision act. He is energetic and playful on stage, often sporting colorful outfits and dancing moves. He describes himself as fun-loving and creative; his music mixes Lithuanian lyrics with club rhythms.

* Luxembourg (Info3City) – Tali (Tali Golergant). Tali (born 1981) is an Israeli-Luxembourgish singer, songwriter and actress. She spent her childhood in Israel and Latin America before settling in Luxembourg and later New York. She won Luxembourg’s first national Eurovision final (after 31 years out) with “Fighter,” an empowering pop song. Tali is known for her versatile style (from jazz to pop); she calls herself a musical “chameleon”. On stage, she wears bold, modern outfits. She is dynamic and determined, having built a career in multiple countries and genres.

* Malta (PBS/TVM) – Sarah Bonnici. Sarah (born 1998, age 25) is a singer from Gozo. She first appeared in the Junior Eurovision national final (2009) and later in X Factor Malta. Her song “Loop” is a contemporary pop song about the cycle of obsession. Sarah’s look combines trendy and ethereal – for example, flowing dresses. She often collaborates with dance producers (her Eurovision song was co-written by Joy Deb, Peter Boström, etc.). She is described as kind and hardworking, and experienced from years of competing and releasing dance-pop music.

* Moldova (TRM) – Natalia Barbu. Natalia (born 1979) is a Moldovan pop-rock singer and violinist. She gained fame by winning Romania’s Mamaia festival in 1998 and represents Moldova again (she previously did Eurovision 2007). She has released four albums and is a prolific songwriter. Her song “In The Middle” (she co-wrote it) is a dramatic ballad. Natalia has a soulful voice and stage flair; she often wears elegant gowns. She is energetic and extroverted onstage – at rehearsals she was seen practicing violin and encouraging others. She draws on rock and R&B influences.

* Norway (NRK) – Gåte. Gåte is a five-member Norwegian folk-rock band (members: Gunnhild Sundli, Magnus Børmark, Jon Even Schärer, etc.). Formed in 2000, they sing in Nynorsk (a Norwegian dialect). They won Norway’s Melodi Grand Prix with “Ulveham,” a medieval-inspired rock song (title means “wolf pelt”). Gunnhild (lead vocalist) has a powerful, ethereal soprano; the band’s style mixes traditional fiddles with electric guitars. Onstage they wore stylized folk garments. The members are known as adventurous musicians who respect Norway’s heritage: Gunnhild is a former classically-trained singer, Børmark a veteran guitarist, etc. They came across as passionate and slightly mystical.

* Poland (TVP) – LUNA. Luna (born 1986) is a Polish singer-songwriter. She plays violin and piano and performed in folk groups and opera as a youth. Her Eurovision entry “The Tower” is a poetic pop-rock ballad (she wrote it herself). Luna often dresses elegantly (long dresses) and has a serene but strong stage presence. She is an intellectual type (studied opera, wrote songs) and also practices yoga and astronomy. Her personality seems calm and reflective; she views music spiritually.

* Portugal (RTP) – Iolanda. Iolanda Costa (born 1994) is a singer-songwriter from Figueira da Foz. Classically trained (studied at Lisbon conservatory, later modern music in London), she released an EP “Cura” in 2023. She won Festival da Canção 2024 with “Grito” (“Shout”) – a powerful ballad addressing suppressed voices. Onstage, Iolanda is intense and soulful; she often wears flowing white or black outfits. She has a poetic, proud persona, combining Portuguese fado sensibility with modern pop. She’s articulate and strong-willed, as shown by her scoring the top jury points.

* San Marino (SMRTV) – Mikelangelo & Sud Sound System. San Marino’s act is the Italian reggae/dancehall group Sud Sound System (Don Rico, Terron Fabio, etc., pioneers of Salento ragga) featuring vocalist Mikelangelo (a singer from Italy). They performed “Adrenalina” (not related to Senhit’s song aside from name). Sud Sound System’s image is casual and colorful (caps, jerseys reflecting Apulian roots). They rap in Salento dialect over a driving reggae beat. Mikelangelo (no surname given) is a powerful vocalist who blends well with the group. Together, they bring a jubilant party vibe; the band members are known for their energetic stage shows and advocacy for social issues, while Mikelangelo adds dramatic flair.

* Sweden (SVT) – Marcus & Martinus. The Norwegian twin brothers (born 2002) Marcus & Martinus were internally selected as host country entry with “Unforgettable”. They are pop idols who won Norway’s Junior Eurovision in 2012 and have had multi-platinum success. They have a bubbly, youthful image – full-on pop pyrotechnics, dance routines, matching outfits. Both write music (they co-wrote “Unforgettable”) and have broad appeal. They are friendly and professional, having performed for years; they wear flashy jackets and sneakers, projecting enthusiasm and Swedish-style pop glamour.

* Switzerland (SRG SSR) – Nemo. Nemo (born 1999 as Nemo Mettler) is a non-binary Swiss singer from Biel. They have played violin, piano and drums since childhood and first became famous with a viral TV audition in 2016. Nemo writes empowering indie-pop; their winning song “The Code” is about breaking free of norms. Nemo’s style is androgynous/rock-chic (often with red or green hair, eyeliner). They are known for honesty and courage, often addressing gender identity and mental health in their music. They are noted for being Switzerland’s first openly non-binary Eurovision entrant, and “The Code” explicitly narrates their journey to self-acceptance.

* Ukraine (UA:PBC) – Alyona Alyona & Jerry Heil. (Not mentioned above but they participated: They performed “Teresa & Maria (Ter-Vill)”, a song mixing rap and pop about maternal devotion.) Alyona and Jerry are Ukrainian rappers, one with short blonde hair (Alyona) and one brunette (Jerry). Both are extroverted and use witty lyrics; the song blends English and Ukrainian and has folk-overtones.

* United Kingdom ( ) – Olly Alexander. Olly (born 1990) is a British singer/actor (Years & Years frontman). His song “Dizzy” (co-written with Danny L Harle) is a disco-pop track. He starred in the TV drama It’s A Sin and has a background in musical theater. Olly is exuberant and camp onstage, often wearing flashy pop outfits; offstage he’s playful (he loves puzzles and cats) and an LGBTQ advocate. As he said, he’s a “sweet talker” and fans appreciate his open, friendly nature.

Production and Event Details

SVT’s production employed hundreds of technical staff. The arena was rigged with 196 motorized hoists and 204 t of staging. Over 100 cameras (including drones and remote units) were used for broadcast. The press center and delegation facilities were set up at Malmömässan convention center, adjacent to the arena. Delegates, crew and fans stayed in hotels across Malmö (the city had only ~4,000 rooms for thousands of visitors, requiring city-planned block-booking).

In addition to the arena shows, the city hosted a full Eurovision program: the Eurovision Village in Folkets Park (May 4–11) with an outdoor main stage for fan events and concerts, and a smaller stage for other acts. Eurovision Street transformed Friisgatan (Triangeln to Folkets Park) into a pedestrian zone with entertainment and cultural stalls. Malmö Live Congress Hall (near Central Station) held the Opening Ceremony, the EuroClub (artists’ party), the Turquoise Carpet arrivals event, and other parties. The contest branding (“United by Music”) adorned the city (banners, the iconic heart logo) and SVT’s social media and Eurovision’s official channels (Twitter/X, Instagram, TikTok, Facebook) provided live updates.

Each artist received scheduled rehearsals in Malmö Arena on the days before their semi. All 37 acts also had a “jury show” (dress rehearsal) the night before each live show, where music industry juries cast votes. Tickets were sold for all rehearsal and live events (nine shows in total).

Broadcast and Media: Over 1,500 broadcasters and press from ~60 countries covered the event. The semi-finals and final were broadcast live worldwide. SVT and EBU reported an expected TV audience of ~180 million. (Indeed, Switzerland’s Nemo won with 591 points.) Media facilities in Malmömässan included 24/7 news feeds and red-carpet interviews. The contest was also shown on Eurovision’s YouTube channel and via partners in Asia and beyond.

Free Time, Social Media & Ancillary Events

During their downtime, delegations could explore Malmö’s compact city center. Many fans visited Fan Zones (Village and Street) to meet artists. There were also unofficial tours (e.g. canal tours from central Malmö to Hyllie). The official Eurovision app and social channels ran contests, polls, and backstage Q&As. Contestants often posted on Instagram/Twitter (e.g. Eden Golan’s farewell post after the win) and interacted with international fan communities. Official press conferences (post-semi and post-final) took place in Malmö Live, with interview slots for all qualifiers.

Controversies and Issues

The 2024 contest occurred amid the 2023–24 Israel–Gaza conflict, which generated tensions. A number of participants publicly called for an immediate ceasefire and insisted on separating politics from music. Some fans and activists demanded cancelling Israel’s slot; Malmo prepared unusually high security due to protests. During the shows, Israeli singer Eden Golan’s performances were repeatedly met with audience booing, leading to allegations of “anti-booing” audio technology (which SVT/EBU denied). Several delegations (Ireland, Switzerland, Norway, Portugal, UK, etc.) reportedly considered withdrawing or protesting at one point. After the contest, Serbia and Slovenia lodged formal complaints about Israel’s delegation’s conduct, and the EBU launched an independent review of the working atmosphere. In short, significant behind-the-scenes friction centered on the Israel row, though no participant ultimately boycotted on-air.

Other incidents: During SF1, Italy’s broadcaster accidentally displayed partial national televoting results on screen, contravening rules; RAI later clarified it was an incomplete tally. In SF2, the Dutch act Joost Klein (song “Europapa”) was involved in a backstage incident: after his semi performance he allegedly made a threatening gesture toward a camera operator. As a result, the EBU disqualified the Netherlands from the final (a first in Eurovision history). Swedish police later investigated, but no crime was proven. These controversies attracted headlines but did not alter the contest outcome.

Audience and Security

Approximately 15,000 fans filled Malmö Arena each show (arena capacity ~15,500). Security was tight: Swedish authorities reported heavy police deployment (with support from Norway and Denmark) to handle protests around the venue. Bag checks and metal detectors were used at entrances. Nonetheless, the atmosphere in the arena was typical of Eurovision: enthusiastic clapping and flag-waving, with flags of participating countries visible in the crowd. During voting, audiences often reacted with cheers, except notably booing during Israel’s acts.

The live event was widely viewed: post-show reports noted that about 180 million people watched on TV around the world. Social media buzz (via the hashtag #Eurovision) included performance clips, fan commentary, and memes. After the grand final, Switzerland’s Nemo became a social-media sensation, trending in multiple countries after winning with “The Code.”

Production Team and Personnel

The contest was produced by SVT in partnership with the EBU. Key figures (from credits) included: Executive Producers Ebba Adielsson & Christel Tholse Willers, Executive in Charge Tobias Åberg, Executive Line Producer Johan Bernhagen, Show Producer Per Blankens, Contest Producer Christer Björkman, Head of Production David Wessén, and Technical Show Director Ola Melzig. The lighting and video design team was led by Fredrik Stormby and Florian Wieder. A large crew handled sound, lights, camera, staging, and translation for the 37 live broadcasts.