The Shortlist (4) Australia

Who are the big favorites for Kiev? In the next couple of weeks we will highlight some interesting participants, based on the odds they have been given by the bookmakers. This week we are providing a shortlist of countries that lead the board in the first semi final. Today’s report is about Australia.

Isaiah

Born in the small NSW town of Moama, and of indigenous heritage, Isaiah Firebrace will look to continue Australia’s success in the Eurovision Song Contest. After infamously forgetting his lyrics during an audition in 2015, the 17-year-old bounced back. He won the X-Factor Australia in 2016, under the guidance of American pop star Adam Lambert. He captivated Australian audiences with his passion for singing, positive attitude and incredible voice.

His debut single “It’s Gotta Be You” reached #1 on the Australian iTunes charts. It also noticeably charted in European countries including Denmark, Finland, Norway and Sweden (where it reached platinum status). This could certainly result in an increase of votes from Scandinavian nations, come May.

Only a matter of days after his X-Factor victory, in an interview with News Corp, Isaiah stated his interest in regards to competing for Australia at Eurovision. “When Jess (Mauboy) performed, I thought ‘Oh my God, Australia can do it, we’re allowed to be there now’,” Isaiah said. Now, his dream has come true.

“Don’t Come Easy”

His song “Don’t Come Easy” is a ballad written by DNA, an Australian duo who also co-wrote Dami Im’s Eurovision 2016 song called “Sound of Silence”. The lyrics of the song tell the story of a man hurt by failed love relationships. Due to this, his love does not come easy anymore. But when he loves, he does it with all his heart and soul.

Although the song is not as upbeat as Guy Sebastian’s 2015 entry, it plays to Isaiah’s strengths. His unmistakably deep, soulful tone is evident throughout, with an emotional connection between song and artist creating a complete package.

With the song’s music video already reaching over one million views on Eurovision’s official YouTube channel, it is certainly popular with the fans. However, judging by the majority of the online comments, it does not reach the standards of Dami Im’s entry last year. Come rehearsals in May, this could all change. “Sound of Silence” significantly improved because of Im’s incredible live performance. This song, as well, is one that can be lifted by strong vocals.

Explaining the odds

Bookmakers consider Australia as a certain qualifier with odds around 1.25. Meaning a single bet on Australia gets you only 25cts profit if Australia actually qualifies for the Grand Final. As for the Grand Final itself, Australia is currently in a top 10 position. The gap with the top 3 favorites is big, however, as Australia’s odds for victory are currently 36 to 1. Do you believe Isaiah Firebrace can win the Eurovision Song Contest? Then the odds are great for you.

1 Comment

  1. I like how he has gone under the radar with Eurovision blogs and FB pages pretty much ignoring his participation until the Daily Mail kicked the ball off with an article about his performance in Adelaide a few days ago. Blogs and FB pages have focused on hyping pretty much 4-5 other contestants which has exceeded overkill. This guy has got the package. Come the start of Eurovision, there will be journalistic articles about his hair, eyebrows, the voice, his poise, cultural heritage and of course, the voice! Major underdog who will finish on, or near the top. Good luck Isaiah!

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