In this new rubric at ESC Daily, we will take a look at next years Eurovision Song Contest. What can we expect from each participating country? In today’s preview we will feature the plans in Iceland.
What do we know so far?
Iceland will be returning to its familiar Söngvakeppni-format. The original deadline for submission was extended by a week, from October 20th to October 27th, but the national broadcaster RÚV has not yet updated their website accordingly after this date. As usual in Iceland, all submitted songs are to be performed in the native language.
Possible names
Nothing has leaked so far, and aside from confirming Söngvakeppni’s return in 2015, and opening the song submission, the RÚV has been rather secretive about their plans for Vienna. Some fan favourites have arisen however, including Reykjavik-based technoband GusGus, who released their latest album Mexico earlier this year. Other names buzzing around are those of singer-songwriter Ásgeir Trausti, and the rockband Sólstafir, both of which also have released an album in 2014 and may be looking to ride the Eurovision promotion wave.
Chances at Eurovision
Although Iceland has never missed the final since 2007, they’ve not been able to bring home a good result (aside from their second place in 2009), mostly ending up in the bottom half of the table. However, they remain an almost certain qualifier, and if they can bring just a little bit extra to the table this year, it might take them all the way to a top 10-placing.