Belgium 2008

A Little Bit of History...

Belgium have had a very long run at Eurovision, being one of the original participants. Despite this run, they have only managed one win, in 1986. From we entered the new millennium, Belgium have had a very mixed string of results, doing very well (2nd in 2003) and very poorly (22nd in 2004). Many other results have been mid table, and in 2005 they didn't make it through the Semi-Final, and hence, had to qualify again in 2006. Hopes were high for Kate Ryan and the favourite of the contest 'Je t'adore'. Unfortunately a ropey vocal and messy performance ensure they missed out of the qualification zone by just 7 points and in 2007 Belgium were once again wallowing at the bottom of the scoreboard, so hopes are high for 2008.

Singer & Song

Ishtar O Julissi Na Jalini

Trying to repeat their latest stint of success (Urban Trad, 2003), the Belgian public chose Ishtar, singing ‘O Julissi’ in an imaginary language. There were some very good pop songs in the Belgian selection this year, and initially, when I heard this I dismissed it, thinking it wouldn’t stand a chance. However, after a few watches and listens, the song is good on its own merits, with mountain loads of charm and a very unique and interesting musicianship. It’s not the best song in the competition, and it is one of those ‘love it or hate it’ songs, but Ishtar could make a fairly good impression on Europe. I don’t suspect great things, but I wouldn’t be surprised if this qualified, it’s almost instantly charming, funny and cute.

Prediction

Semi-Final:

Grand Final:

An initial prediction will appear here soon.

Prediction after Semi-Finals

A prediction will appear here when all 25 songs in the Grand Final are known.