Best Eurovision Song Of The 21st Century: BBC Radio 2's Listener Poll

Kenji Nakamura

4 min read

Post on May 19, 2025

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The Winning Song and its Impact

The winning song, chosen by thousands of devoted BBC Radio 2 listeners, is none other than "Arcade" by Duncan Laurence, representing the Netherlands in 2019. This emotionally resonant ballad, with its captivating piano melody and Duncan Laurence's powerful vocals, resonated deeply with audiences across Europe and beyond. Its victory was a significant moment, not only for the Netherlands, which hadn't won since 1975, but also for the genre of melancholic, heartfelt pop ballads in the Eurovision Song Contest.

• Year of victory: 2019
• Country of origin: Netherlands
• Key musical elements: Piano-driven ballad, melancholic melody, powerful vocals
• Lyrical themes and message: Heartbreak, longing, vulnerability
• Post-Eurovision chart performance and awards: "Arcade" achieved significant chart success internationally, reaching number one in several countries.
• Cultural impact and lasting legacy: The song's success cemented its place in Eurovision history, inspiring subsequent artists with its emotional depth and stripped-back presentation. It continues to be celebrated as a modern Eurovision classic, showcasing the power of emotional storytelling.

Notable Contenders and Their Significance

While "Arcade" took the crown, several other entries gave it a strong run for its money, proving the rich tapestry of Eurovision music in the 21st century. These contenders, each significant in their own right, showcased the diversity and talent within the contest.

• "Euphoria" by Loreen (Sweden, 2012): This powerful electropop anthem remains iconic, with Loreen's incredible stage presence and the song's infectious energy captivating audiences worldwide. Its impact on the subsequent Eurovision landscape, particularly its influence on staging and choreography, is undeniable.

• "Running Scared" by Ell & Nikki (Azerbaijan, 2011): This dynamic pop song, featuring a memorable chorus, demonstrated the power of a strong vocal performance and captivating staging. Its victory marked Azerbaijan's first Eurovision triumph and highlighted the growing influence of Eastern European artists in the competition.

• "Fairytale" by Alexander Rybak (Norway, 2009): This charming folk-pop song with its catchy melody and distinctive violin riff became an instant classic. It's often remembered for its charming performance and memorable staging, embodying the lighter, more playful side of Eurovision.

BBC Radio 2's Role and the Voting Process

BBC Radio 2, a cornerstone of British broadcasting, played a crucial role in organizing and promoting this listener poll dedicated to the best Eurovision Song of the 21st Century. Their involvement lent significant weight to the outcome, ensuring broad participation and representing a wide range of Eurovision fans.

• Description of the voting method: Listeners were able to vote online and via telephone.
• Total number of votes cast: A substantial number of votes were cast, demonstrating significant listener engagement and passion for the Eurovision Song Contest. The exact number was not publicly disclosed but was reported as exceptionally high.
• Timeframe of the voting period: The poll ran for several weeks, allowing ample time for listeners to participate.
• BBC Radio 2's promotion of the poll: The poll was heavily promoted across BBC Radio 2's programming, ensuring high visibility and broad reach to their vast listening audience.

Analyzing the Results: Trends and Preferences

The results of the BBC Radio 2 poll reveal interesting trends in listener preferences. The dominance of powerful ballads, like "Arcade," suggests a continued appreciation for emotional depth and storytelling in Eurovision entries. The inclusion of several high-energy pop songs highlights the continued relevance of catchy melodies and dynamic performances.

• Most popular genres represented in the top songs: Ballad, Pop, Electropop, Folk-Pop
• Common themes in the lyrics of the top-ranking songs: Love, heartbreak, hope, resilience
• Performance style preferences reflected in the results: A balance between powerful vocals, creative staging, and emotional connection was favored.

Conclusion

The BBC Radio 2 listener poll definitively crowned "Arcade" by Duncan Laurence as the best Eurovision Song of the 21st Century, a testament to its enduring power and emotional resonance. However, the strong showing of other contenders—each with its unique musical style and cultural impact—highlights the rich diversity and talent within the Eurovision Song Contest. The poll reflects a continued appreciation for emotionally charged performances, catchy melodies, and innovative staging. The continued popularity and cultural relevance of the Eurovision Song Contest remain undeniable, with BBC Radio 2's listener poll serving as a fitting testament to its enduring magic.

Want to know more about the best Eurovision song of the 21st century and other iconic entries? Explore the [link to relevant resource, e.g., BBC Radio 2 Eurovision page, Eurovision Song Contest website] and discover the magic and excitement of the Eurovision Song Contest! Share your own favorite Eurovision songs and let's celebrate the best of Eurovision music!