Only 2 or 3 songs feel like they actually have an identity of their own and try and take some risks, and although I'm not a huge fan of those either, at least, I can respect them and I could even see them grow on me with a few re-listens.

But this show really isn't for me. #BenidormFest (2/2)

I wonder for long did Salvador Sobral laugh on their faces during that phone call.

Thank you so much, this is a godsend. So much better being able to follow live posts. <3

This is actually Rezarta Smaja, with "Balukeprera". For some reason, there was a change in the running order.

That doesn't leave room for rebelling.

The issue is RTP has their hands tied over the government being almost far-right. RTP already suffered some restructuring of their administrative bodies to get rid of some key people and the government is just looking for an excuse to get the conversation about privatizing the channel going.

There's backlash either way. RTP in, you have a loud minority, comprised of the fandom mostly, who hate the decision. RTP out, you have all theloud pseudo-fascists coming out of their caves to screech over a show they never watched in the first place.

Oh absolutely, and for sure the backlash will be immense. But I could see a couple of artists prioritizing the exposure that comes with Eurovision rather than the morality of taking part this year. Or just be pro-Israel and have no issue at all. It's not a consensual subject anyway.

RTP's budget is tight, they wouldn't risk losing their participation fee unless they had a backup plan. My guess is that, in case nothing in FdC pans out, they'll select some other artist internally. They have a good relationship with the Portuguese music industry.

Also, you can't advogate for years that Eurovision needs to become cheaper to allow poorer countries to participate, and then complain when they actually downgrade the show a bit to precisely cut costs. Pick a lane, #Eurovision fandom.