The Eurovision Song Contest, a beloved annual international songwriting competition, has gifted the world with some of the most memorable and catchy pop anthems. From ABBA to Bucks Fizz, the competition has been a launchpad for musical legends and a showcase of Europe’s diverse musical landscape.
Whether you’re a seasoned Eurovision fanatic or a curious newcomer, join us as we take a trip down memory lane and rank the 20 best Eurovision songs of all time.
1. Lena – ‘Satellite’ (Germany, 2010)
In 2010, German singer-songwriter Lena Meyer-Landrut captivated Europe with her infectious pop track “Satellite,” securing a resounding victory for Germany. The song’s simple yet effective melody, coupled with Lena’s charming stage presence, resonated with audiences across the continent. “Satellite” soared to the top of the charts in numerous countries, solidifying its status as a modern Eurovision classic.
2. Lulu – ‘Boom Bang a Bang’ (UK, 1969)
Scottish songstress Lulu, already an international star, graced the Eurovision stage in 1969 with the powerful ballad “Boom Bang a Bang.” The song’s dramatic arrangement and Lulu’s powerhouse vocals created an unforgettable Eurovision moment. A testament to the song’s enduring appeal, it became the theme tune for the popular British sitcom “Him & Her.”
3. Brotherhood of Man – ‘Save Your Kisses for Me’ (UK, 1976)
British pop group Brotherhood of Man charmed their way into Eurovision history with their 1976 winning entry, “Save Your Kisses for Me.” The song’s infectious melody, combined with the group’s iconic white and red jumpsuits and synchronized choreography, made it an instant classic. “Save Your Kisses for Me” became one of the best-selling Eurovision songs of all time, topping the charts across Europe.
4. Dana International – ‘Diva’ (Israel, 1998)
Dana International made history as the first transgender artist to win Eurovision with her powerful anthem “Diva.” The song’s message of empowerment and acceptance resonated deeply with audiences, making it a cultural touchstone. Dana International’s victory marked a pivotal moment for LGBTQ+ representation in mainstream media.
5. Cliff Richard – ‘Congratulations’ (UK, 1968)
British pop icon Cliff Richard narrowly missed out on Eurovision glory in 1968 with his upbeat and optimistic song “Congratulations.” Despite finishing in second place, the song became a massive hit across Europe, solidifying its place as a beloved Eurovision classic.
6. Conchita Wurst – ‘Rise Like a Phoenix’ (Austria, 2014)
Austrian drag queen Conchita Wurst captivated the world with her powerful ballad “Rise Like a Phoenix,” securing Austria’s first Eurovision win in over four decades. Conchita’s soaring vocals and the song’s message of resilience and triumph resonated deeply, transcending language and cultural barriers.
7. Bucks Fizz – ‘Making Your Mind Up’ (UK, 1981)
British pop group Bucks Fizz brought their infectious energy and memorable choreography to the Eurovision stage in 1981 with their winning entry “Making Your Mind Up.” The song’s catchy melody and the group’s iconic skirt-ripping routine made it an instant hit, cementing its status as a Eurovision classic.
8. Sam Ryder – ‘Space Man’ (UK, 2022)
British singer-songwriter Sam Ryder took the Eurovision world by storm in 2022 with his uplifting and anthemic song “Space Man,” ending the UK’s long streak of poor performances and finishing in second place.
9. Teach-In – ‘Ding-a-Dong’ (Netherlands, 1975)
Dutch pop group Teach-In took home the Eurovision crown in 1975 with their incredibly catchy and upbeat song “Ding-a-Dong.” This song’s simple yet effective melody and memorable chorus made it an instant earworm that continues to bring joy to Eurovision fans today.
10. Alexander Rybak – ‘Fairytale’ (Norway, 2009)
Norwegian violinist and singer Alexander Rybak charmed Europe with his folk-inspired pop song “Fairytale.” Rybak’s passionate performance and the song’s blend of traditional and contemporary elements struck a chord with audiences, earning Norway its third Eurovision victory.
11. Loreen – ‘Euphoria’ (Sweden, 2012)
Swedish singer Loreen delivered a mesmerizing performance of her haunting and atmospheric song “Euphoria.” The song’s powerful message of love and liberation, combined with Loreen’s captivating stage presence, made it an instant Eurovision classic. “Euphoria” topped the charts across Europe and beyond, becoming one of the competition’s most commercially successful entries.
12. Katrina and the Waves – ‘Love Shine a Light’ (UK, 1997)
British-American rock band Katrina and the Waves brought their positive energy to the Eurovision stage with their anthemic song “Love Shine a Light.” The song’s message of hope and unity resonated with audiences, securing the UK’s fifth and most recent Eurovision victory.
13. Gina G – ‘Ooh Aah… Just a Little Bit’ (UK, 1996)
Australian singer Gina G represented the UK at Eurovision 1996 with her catchy dance-pop anthem “Ooh Aah… Just a Little Bit.” Although it only placed eighth in the competition, the song became a massive hit in the UK, reaching number one on the charts.
14. Daði Freyr – ‘Think About Things’ (Iceland, 2020)
Icelandic band Daði Freyr and Gagnamagnið were favorites to win Eurovision 2020 with their quirky and infectious song “Think About Things.” Unfortunately, the competition was canceled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but the song gained massive popularity online and became a viral sensation.
15. Måneskin – ‘Zitti e buoni’ (Italy, 2021)
Italian rock band Måneskin injected some rock and roll energy into Eurovision 2021 with their powerful and rebellious anthem “Zitti e buoni.” Their victory marked a turning point for rock music in the competition.
16. Duncan Laurence – ‘Arcade’ (Netherlands, 2019)
Dutch singer-songwriter Duncan Laurence won Eurovision 2019 with his heartfelt and melancholic ballad “Arcade.” “Arcade” became one of the most streamed Eurovision songs of all time and achieved chart success worldwide.
17. The Olsen Brothers – ‘Fly On the Wings of Love’ (Denmark, 2000)
Danish pop duo The Olsen Brothers surprised many when they won Eurovision 2000 with their uplifting and catchy song “Fly On the Wings of Love.”
18. Måns Zelmerlöw – ‘Heroes’ (Sweden, 2015)
Swedish singer Måns Zelmerlöw won Eurovision 2015 with his anthemic and visually stunning performance of “Heroes.” The song’s message of hope and its innovative use of technology made it an instant fan favorite.
19. Domenico Modugno – ‘Nel blu, dipinto di blu’ (Italy, 1958)
Italian singer Domenico Modugno’s “Nel blu, dipinto di blu,” often referred to as “Volare,” is one of the most enduring and internationally recognized Eurovision songs of all time.
20. ABBA – ‘Waterloo’ (Sweden, 1974)
No Eurovision list would be complete without mentioning Swedish pop icons ABBA and their breakthrough hit “Waterloo.” Their victory in 1974 launched them into international stardom and solidified their place in music history. “Waterloo” remains one of the most beloved and iconic Eurovision songs of all time.
The Eurovision Song Contest has provided a platform for countless talented artists and produced some of the world’s most memorable pop songs. These top 20 entries showcase the diversity, creativity, and enduring appeal of this beloved international competition. Whether you prefer upbeat pop anthems, heartfelt ballads, or quirky novelty songs, there’s something for everyone in the rich and varied history of Eurovision.
