Israel won popular song contest Eurovision 2018 without a hitch, and now I am excited to see how Eurovision will unfold in Israel in 2019.
Netta was dressed in a flamboyant kimono-style dress and her hair was up in two buns. She stood behind a lighted electronic sound board, while standing in front of two large shelves holding waving Japanese cats. She started the song with a series of sounds she made while speaking into a microphone, and then gradually started clucking like a chicken before she started singing words. The song was about women having freedom and not being controlled by men.
One of my favorite parts of the song was when she said, “Wonder Woman don’t you ever forget..,” referencing to the film Wonder Woman that starred Israeli actress Gal Gadot.
What was interesting when watching this performance that emphasized female power was thinking about the lack of freedom many women have in countries neighboring Israel. Israel was actually the only Middle Eastern country to perform in Eurovision this year.
What is even more interesting is that since Israel won, Eurovision will be held in Israel next year. Israel has been receiving a ton of press as of recent due to the US Embassy being moved to Jerusalem, as well as the United States recognizing Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. Many voices of support have spoken up for these bold moves, while many voices of criticism have also been heard.
It will certainly be exciting to see Eurovision 2019 unfold next year in Israel. Israel has won Eurovision four times since joining the song competition in 1973. The last time Israel won Eurovision was in 1998.
Lauren Ell is an American blogger born and raised in Southern California and is currently based in Sweden. She discusses Epilepsy, Politics and Fun. Professionally Ell is an Online Marketing Consultant and Virtual Assistant. She is also founder and president of Republican Atheists. Connect with Lauren on Facebook and Twitter.