The Eurovision Song Contest has long been a beloved event for the LGBTQ+ community, thanks to its extravagant costumes, high-energy performances, and groundbreaking representation of queer culture. As anticipation builds for this year’s competition, let’s take a look back at some of the most iconic LGBTQ+ moments from the contest’s storied 67-year history.
ABBA’s Waterloo: The Birth of a Queer Icon
ABBA’s 1974 win with their Europop classic, “Waterloo,” marked the beginning of a long line of memorable Eurovision performances. The performance was as camp and exuberant as one would expect, serving as a springboard for later camp pop culture moments and establishing ABBA as a queer icon.
Celine Dion’s Dramatic Entrance
From Celine Dion’s dramatic 1988 performance of “Ne partez pas sans moi” to Conchita Wurst’s historic 2014 victory with “Rise Like a Phoenix,” Eurovision has consistently delivered unforgettable moments that resonate deeply with the LGBTQ+ community.
Conchita Wurst: A Symbol of Tolerance and Artistic Freedom
Conchita Wurst’s 2014 victory with “Rise Like a Phoenix” marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ representation at Eurovision. The Austrian singer-songwriter’s cultural impact was unprecedented, providing more visibility for queerness and bearded queens around the world.
Dana International: A Groundbreaking Trailblazer
Dana International’s 1998 win with the Eurodance hit “Diva” marked a turning point for LGBTQ+ representation at Eurovision. As the first openly transgender performer and winner in the competition’s history, Dana International helped pave the way for future queer artists and winners, inspiring a new era of LGBTQ+ visibility in the contest.
LGBTQ+ Anthems: Loreen’s Euphoria and Ruslana’s Wild Dances
Eurovision has also produced several songs that have become LGBTQ+ anthems, such as Loreen’s 2012 hit “Euphoria” and Ruslana’s 2004 “Wild Dances.” These songs, along with the flamboyant performances and memorable stage presence of artists like Netta and Italy’s MÃ¥neskin, have solidified Eurovision’s status as a celebration of queer culture and identity.
A Bright Future for Queer Representation at Eurovision
As the Eurovision Song Contest continues to evolve, it is poised to remain a touchstone event for the LGBTQ+ community, celebrating diversity, inclusion, and the unique artistic expression that has become synonymous with the contest. Here’s to many more unforgettable queer moments in the years to come.