A little known group by the name of ABBA kicked off Sweden’s big triumphs in the Eurovision competition, winning back in 1974 for a song called ‘Waterloo’.
The Swedes won again in 1984. And again in 1991. And once more in 1999 (remember Charlotte Nilsson’s desperately camp ‘Take Me To Your Heaven’?). But since failing to qualify for the Grand Final in 2010, Sweden has enjoyed quite the run; five years, two wins and two third placings.
Given they won last year’s competition (all thanks to Måns Zelmerlöw’s ‘Heroes’), the competition is being hosted in the Swedish capital Stockholm this year. And, as is tradition for the host nation, they don’t have to tit about in the semi finals, being granted automatic qualification into the Grand Final.
So how’s 17 year old performer Frans going to follow up Måns in the Eurovision winning department?
‘If I Were Sorry’ is a likeable enough pop number from a likeable enough pop singer, but for us, it lacks the drama, the excitement and the oomph that had Måns celebrating at the pointy end of last year’s competition. All this despite Sweden once again being in the pointy end in the betting stakes. Six points.
Australia's first stop for pop!