Bulgaria Claims Victory at Eurovision 2024
Bulgaria has made history by winning the Eurovision Song Contest with Dara’s energetic track “Bangaranga,” which swept through the 70th edition of the world’s most-watched live televised music event. The song secured the top spot, pushing Israel into second place and marking a significant moment in the contest's history. Romania came in third, while the competition saw a major political backlash due to Israel’s participation.
This is Bulgaria’s first win in the contest, despite missing the last three editions. The victory was hard-fought, as the points were revealed in the final moments, with Bulgaria overtaking Israel. Dara, whose real name is Darina Yotova, was not among the favorites going into the event but gained momentum after a strong performance in the semi-finals. Her highly choreographed dance routines captivated audiences and helped her rise to the top.
Dara expressed her feelings about the song, stating, “Bangaranga, it’s a feeling that everybody has got in themselves.” She emphasized the importance of leading through love rather than fear and highlighted the connection between individuals and the universe. Her message resonated with many, showcasing the power of music to inspire and unite.
Political Backlash Over Israel’s Participation
The contest took place in Vienna, where around 10,000 fans gathered at the Wiener Stadthalle arena to witness the final. While the event was filled with glitz and glamour, it also reflected the geopolitical tensions surrounding Israel’s participation. Several countries, including Spain, the Netherlands, Ireland, Iceland, and Slovenia, staged the largest political boycott in Eurovision history, citing concerns over the war in Gaza.
Despite the controversy, Israel’s entry, Noam Bettan’s “Michelle,” initially looked like it would win. However, Bulgaria’s televote points ultimately secured the victory. Bulgaria finished with 516 points, followed by Israel with 343, Romania with 296, Australia with 287, Italy with 281, and Finland with 279.
Johannes Pietsch, who won Eurovision 2025 for Austria with his song “Wasted Love,” presented the winner’s trophy to Dara. Pietsch opened the show with a tribute to Austria’s musical heritage, performing the “Queen of the Night” aria from Mozart’s “The Magic Flute.”
Other Notable Performances
The Finnish duo Linda Lampenius and Pete Parkkonen were the bookmakers’ favorites going into the final with their song “Liekinheitin” (Flamethrower). Lampenius delivered a powerful performance, shredding her bow as she reached the highest notes on the fingerboard.
Romanian singer Alexandra Capitanescu sparked controversy with her heavy metal song “Choke Me,” which featured the repeated lyric “I want you to choke me.” The performance drew attention and debate before the contest began.
Australia’s Delta Goodrem came in fourth with her song “Eclipse,” which included powerful moments and ended with her soaring high on a riser emerging from a glittering piano. Serbian metallers Lavina delivered a deep growl, while Czech artist Daniel Zizka navigated a hall of mirrors. Lithuania’s Lion Ceccah brought an air of mystery with his silver-painted performance.
Ukrainian contestant Leleka held the audience in suspense as she built up to an exceptionally high note in her song “Ridnym,” which she successfully nailed. Croatian group Lelek performed a dark choral piece called “Andromeda,” referencing the persecution of Christian women in the Ottoman Empire.
British electronic artist Look Mum No Computer had the crowd chanting along to “Eins, Zwei, Drei,” with lyrics touching on themes of drudgery and custard.
Set Changes and Protests
The set changes between each three-minute song required a large team of crew members, working with the precision of a Formula One pit-stop. The production showcased the technical expertise behind the event.
Protests also took place outside the venue, with hundreds of pro-Palestinian demonstrators marching and chanting “boycott Eurovision.” Banners reading “Don’t celebrate genocide” were displayed. Spanish public broadcaster RTVE, traditionally a major supporter of Eurovision, boycotted the event and refused to screen it. During the opening, RTVE aired a message stating, “The Eurovision Song Contest is a competition, but human rights are not. There is no room for indifference. Peace and justice for Palestine.”
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