The BBC has announced its biggest ever Eurovision song search to represent the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest 2016.
“This year really will be the biggest song search for Eurovision the BBC has ever undertaken. With input from key industry figures and fan associations, plus with the public having the final say, we are looking forward to seeing a true People’s Eurovision entry representing the UK at next year’s competition in Sweden.” Guy Freeman, Editor Special Events for the BBC commented.
Mr. Freeman explained that an open submission process will take place. The BBC is inviting anyone over the age of 18 to submit a video of their original song for consideration. The video does not have to be professionally shot and the audio production can be a demo – but it must be sung live by the artist who would be performing the song in Stockholm. Details of how to enter can be found here. The closing date for submissions is Friday 20 November 2015.
“Eurovision is one of the highlights of my year and I love the fact that the BBC is launching its biggest song search ever. I think it really shows that they take the competition seriously and the fact that the public will get the final say on who is sent to represent the UK in Stockholm next year is the icing on the cake!” Graham Norton, Eurovision Commentator for BBC One commented.
Freeman pointed out that Songs from all routes of entry will be included in a final shortlist, which will be presented to a professional panel and the public, who will have the final say on which song is taken forward to represent the United Kingdom at the Eurovision Song Contest in Sweden in 2016. More details regarding this will be announced in due course.
“It’s a massive honour – and very exciting – for OGAE members to be given a key role in helping to choose the UK’s entry for Eurovision 2016. Eurovision fans are never backwards in coming forwards about their thoughts on the UK’s performance at the world’s greatest music competition, so I’m really excited about the opportunity this offers us to help find the right song to fly the flag for the UK in Stockholm next year.” Alasdair Rendall, President of OGAE UK commented.