The ones to watch in Eurovision 2010

On first glance it seeemed this year's Eurovision Song Contest might be one of the worst for years but hiding between some absolutely dreadful entries are a couple of songs destined to be Eurovision classics. Here are my tips for 2010.

Romania

I dismissed this as absolute rubbish when I first heard it but the more I listen to it the more I love it. Paula Seling is gorgeous and exudes confidence and stage presence and the song while being catchy isn't tacky. It rises above the sea of ballads and I'm increasingly believing this could be Romania's first ever Eurovision win!




Denmark

Another male/female duo where the woman far out-performs the man. He looks a little awkward at times but she is an image of confidence and their vocals are practically flawless. I've always thought of Eurovision more as an anthem contest than a song contest and this song is anthemic. I'm sure it will make a big impact on the night.




Norway

The bookies' favourite, I'm increasingly thinking Norway won't make it twice in a row. I expect this song to place highly though, probably top 4.



Armenia

Armenia have finished in the top 10 every year since they debuted at the contest in 2006. Expect Apricot Stone to have equal success. Possible top 5, definitely top 10.



Ireland

After a string of bad results Ireland have gone back to their tried and tested format, a ballad! In any other year it would have been a great tactic but unfortunately as we know it's ballad central this year. Niamh still has the voice and the song is very strong but I worry it will face stiff competition and may have to make do with a top 10 placing.



Bulgaria

If it was an enthusiam contest Miro would win hands down! Now I don't think this has any chance of winning but it should be great fun to watch on the night. It's amazing and dreadful all at once.




Belgium

Hmm, what to think, what to think. On the surface this song seemed boring but it's strangely affecting with just Tom and his guitar on stage. The simple production and Tom's heart-felt voice make this to me one of the stronger songs this year. On Belgium's recent record I fear Tom's greatest challenge may be just qualifying for the final. A valiant effort all the same.




Netherlands

Ok so maybe I'm being slightly deluded in thinking this stands any chance whatsoever or winning but I really hope it qualifies. I absolutely detested it when I first heard it but it's really grown on me and it's one of the songs I'm most looking forward to seeing on the night.