"Bulgaria has won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest the country's first-ever win. The achievement surprised many because Bulgaria wasn't among the favorites to win in 2026. But with its catchy "Welcome to the riot!" refrain and bouncy vibe, performer Dara's banging anthem "Bangaranga" bested 24 other nations for the glittery global musical crown at the finals on Saturday in Vienna, Austria."
"Israel came in second, as it did last year. Ten competitors were eliminated from the original group of 35 in the semi-finals earlier this week. In his appraisal of his 10 favorite Eurovision 2026 songs, NPR critic Glen Weldon called "Bangaranga" an "insanely catchy bop" and praised its "deep, profound, abiding grooviness.""
""Oh my god!" Dara yelled, as she accepted the Crystal Microphone, the event's glass trophy, from last year's winner, JJ of Austria. As with other global cultural events, such as the Venice Biennale currently underway in Italy, the glittery annual songfest is intended as a display of goodwill and togetherness between nations. "In a world often divided, we stand united by music," said host Michael Ostrowski at the conclusion of this year's event."
"Five countries Iceland, Ireland, the Netherlands, Slovenia and Spain pulled out between September and December 2025 in protest over event organizer European Broadcasting Union's decision to allow Israel to participate amid the ongoing war in Gaza. In this year's finals, Israeli singer Noam Bettan performed the romantic breakup song "Michelle" in French, Hebrew a"
Bulgaria won the 70th Eurovision Song Contest for its first-ever win, surprising expectations ahead of the finals in Vienna, Austria. Dara’s “Bangaranga,” featuring the “Welcome to the riot!” refrain and a bouncy, catchy sound, won the top prize over 24 other countries. Israel finished second, repeating its last year’s result. Ten competitors were eliminated in the semi-finals earlier in the week. The event’s Crystal Microphone trophy was presented by last year’s winner, JJ of Austria, as Dara celebrated her victory. Eurovision aims to promote goodwill and togetherness through music, while also facing protests tied to the war in Gaza, including withdrawals by five countries and controversy over Israel’s participation.
Read at www.npr.org
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