Ukraine claimed a memorable moment in Eurovision 2022, not only through music but also by sending a clear moral message. The Kalush Orchestra’s Stefania stood out as a tribute to family and homeland, resonating across Europe and beyond. The victory carried symbolic weight in the face of geopolitical tensions, signaling solidarity from the European audience toward Ukraine.
The contest also marked a historic milestone for Spain, which earned its best result in decades. The song SloMo delivered a dynamic performance that helped Spain secure a high placement and sparked a conversation about the country’s long-term Eurovision strategy. The United Kingdom achieved a notable position with Anabel Conde’s return to prominence since her 1995 runner-up finish with Vuelve Conmigo.
As the event unfolded, Ukraine’s six-member group performed just before the final prize and called attention to ongoing crises in their region. The competition’s format and rules prompted the organizers to adapt, underscoring the broader context of conflict that surrounded the event.
Ukraine wins Eurovision, while Spain makes history
Amid a challenging backdrop, a candidacy that required refugees to be accommodated remotely and special permissions to leave the country illustrated the human side of the competition. One member faced travel restrictions, which necessitated adjustments in the group’s lineup. Yet the emphasis remained on the music and its message.
Stefania, originally a tribute to the Kalush Orchestra leader’s mother, evolved into a broader homage to resilience. The blend of folk music with hip hop and electronic sounds helped it connect with audiences who valued a song that acknowledged personal and national roots.
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shadow of war
Peace themes dominated the final evening, with a performance at Piazza San Carlo in Turin that reimagined John Lennon’s Give Peace a Chance as a statement against war. The event also featured prominent Italian voices and international stars who contributed to the evening’s energy and meaning.
From the Turin venue, Laura Pausini appeared with Mika and Alessandro Cattelan, delivering a lively and engaging hosting presence. The show opened with We Are Domi from the Czech Republic performing Lights Off, setting a high-energy tone for a night filled with emotional ballads and dramatic performances.
Chanel’s standout act followed, delivering a confident fusion of Latin flair and contemporary choreography. The performance showcased a bold stage presence that left a lasting impression on the audience and judges alike.
Ukraine remained a clear favorite, its message of solidarity echoing through the arena as fans sent strong support. The competition rules, which include a mix of jury and public voting, created a dynamic backdrop for the night’s outcomes.
ballad premiere
The second act of the contest leaned into more intimate ballads, a hallmark of this edition. The stage design, described by some as chaotic, struggled to keep pace with the performances, yet the artists still connected with viewers across Europe.
Greek artist Amanda Tenfjord and the Swedish entry Die Together stood out with compelling melodies. Cornelia Jakobs and Hold Me Closer built anticipation as the night progressed, appealing to a broad audience with a thoughtful, evolving sound.
Among the standout moments was a memorable performance by Sam Ryder, whose energetic presence and homage to classic rock traditions resonated with many viewers. His combination of vocal prowess and guitar riffs helped propel him into the top tier of contenders.
The contest also introduced new personalities and stories, including Romanian entrant WRS and Spain’s Hello Baby, which added variety to the lineup. Serbian artist Konstrakta presented a provocative moment centered on mental health, a bold departure that sparked conversation about the festival’s boundaries.
Chanel, history
As voting began, a diverse range of performances created a vivid mosaic. The hosting duo, alongside past Italian champions Gigliola Cinquetti and Damiano David, contributed to a sense of history and continuity. The festival’s energy was high, even as some performances demonstrated vulnerabilities like injuries on stage.
The overall results reflected a blend of jury scores and public votes. The top standings highlighted Spain, the United Kingdom, and Sweden, with Ukraine and Italy also securing strong showings. The final tally showcased a mix of national pride and international admiration, underscoring Eurovision’s enduring appeal.
Spain earned a substantial televote and strong jury support, finishing among the top contenders. The final points distribution showcased broad international support, with many countries awarding high marks to Spain while others spread votes across a wider field.
In their overall assessment, juries and viewers demonstrated a shared interest in performances that combined storytelling, musical craft, and stagecraft. The results echoed a broader European moment of connection through music, even as geopolitical realities continued to unfold offstage.