The best British Eurovision entry of all time has been named as Bucks Fizz’s ‘Making Your Mind Up’. It is the second year running the popular group have taken the top spot. The group took home the Eurovision title in 1981 after an iconic performance in the contest held in Dublin.
The research of 2,000 adults, commissioned by WhichBingo which is hosting its annual industry awards tonight placed Sam Ryder’s ‘Space Man’ in second place, and Brotherhood of Man’s ‘Save Your Kisses for Me’ in third. Cliff Richard’s first Eurovision entry in 1968, ‘Congratulations’, and Katrina and the Waves’ ‘Love Shine a Light’, the last Eurovision win for the UK in 1997, made up the top five.
Cheryl Baker, who won Eurovision as part of Bucks Fizz’s hit in 1981 said: “It’s fabulous. To still come out on top again after all these years is unbelievable really, and I’m thrilled.”
There’s confidence among fans that the UK could end its 29-year wait for a Eurovision win, with 19% believing LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER could triumph over the competition this year.
Cheryl Baker, who is speaking at this year’s WhichBingo Awards commented on this year’s entry: “I actually think our boy’s going to do really well this year – at the very least I think we’ll finally be on the left-hand side of the scoreboard rather than the right-hand side.
“It’s fun, it’s different, and Eurovision audiences love that. I’ve seen the rehearsals and he’s got dancers with these television screens – it looks great and could do really well.”
According to the study, the perfect formula for a Eurovision-winning entry is a catchy, memorable chorus, an unforgettable hook , and a powerful vocal performance. Other essential factors included having a charismatic performer you want to root for, and a sense of fun, camp or chaos.
The research shows the UK still loves Eurovision, with 34% fo adults watching the final every year, or most years, with half still proud of Sam Ryder’s performance four years later in which he came second.
However, three in 10 reckon the UK’s entries have got worse in recent years, with 24% believing we should take it more seriously.
What’s more, 27% want Ed Sheeran to compete for the UK, with Adele and Harry Styles other key acts.
Shaun Frackleton of WhichBingo said: “We’re backing LOOK MUM NO COMPUTER to go all the way, but how cool would it be if Ed Sheeran stepped out for Britain one year?
“As our research shows, there’s a few different factors which go into a knockout Eurovision performance.
“If they can stick close to them, there’s no reason Britain can’t go all the way.”