Malta’s Eurovision Fever: More Than Just a Song Contest

It’s a Saturday night in late May, and Republic Street in Valletta is buzzing. But it’s not the usual weekend crowd. Thousands have gathered, not for a local band or a street party, but to watch a live broadcast on a giant screen. They’re here for Eurovision – Europe’s longest-running television competition, and Malta’s biggest ‘sporting’ event outside football.

From Underachiever to Contender

Malta’s love affair with Eurovision is a tale of transformation. In the early years, we were the perennial underdogs, often finishing last. But fast forward to 2021, and Malta’s Destiny Chukunyere finished in the top ten with her powerful ballad ‘Je Me Casse’. How did we go from zero to hero?

Malta’s Eurovision journey mirrors our cultural evolution. In the 1990s, our entries were often traditional folk songs, reflecting our Mediterranean heritage. But as our society became more diverse and global, so did our music. Today, our entries are as likely to be pop, rock, or even rap, reflecting the eclectic tastes of our young, multicultural population.

The Power of Passion and Planning

Malta’s Eurovision success isn’t just about our music. It’s about our passion and our planning. Every year, the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) launches a national selection process, inviting aspiring artists to submit their songs. The best are then selected to compete in a series of live shows, culminating in a grand final.

But it’s not just about the singing. Malta’s Eurovision team is one of the most professional in the competition. They invest in staging, lighting, and choreography, turning our humble PBS studio into a world-class production. It’s no wonder we’ve become known as one of the most innovative and exciting participants.

Eurovision’s Impact on Malta

Eurovision isn’t just about the music. It’s about the tourism, the exposure, and the pride it brings to Malta. Every year, thousands of Europeans descend on our islands, drawn by our participation in the contest. They fill our hotels, eat in our restaurants, and spend in our shops.

But perhaps the most important impact is the pride it instills in Maltese people. Every year, as we watch our artists take to the Eurovision stage, we feel a sense of national pride. We’re no longer just a small island in the Mediterranean. We’re a nation that punches above its weight, a nation that can compete with the best in Europe.

So, as we gear up for another Eurovision, let’s celebrate our success. Let’s celebrate our music, our passion, and our ability to punch above our weight. Because, in a way, Eurovision is more than just a song contest. It’s a reflection of who we are as a nation.

Join the Party: How to Get Involved in Malta’s Eurovision Fever

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Want to join the party? Here’s how you can get involved:

• Attend the National Final: Every year, PBS hosts a live national final to select Malta’s entry. It’s a great night out, and tickets are usually available to the public.
• Watch the Live Broadcast: If you can’t make it to Valletta, watch the live broadcast on TVM or stream it online. Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #Eurovision.
• Host a Eurovision Party: Invite your friends over, cook some Maltese food, and enjoy the show together. It’s a great way to celebrate our participation and have some fun.

So, whether you’re a music fan, a patriot, or just looking for a fun night out, Eurovision has something to offer you. So, let’s turn up the volume, and let’s make Malta proud!