Basel, Switzerland – Austria’s classically trained countertenor, JJ, has emerged victorious at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025, held in Basel, Switzerland. Their groundbreaking song, “Wasted Love,” a unique blend of soaring operatic vocals spanning multiple octaves with a pulsating techno undercurrent, captivated both the jury and the public, securing them the coveted crystal microphone.
The grand final, held on Saturday, May 17th, saw JJ compete against 25 other acts, each showcasing the diverse musical landscape of Europe. While the celebration of music and unity was palpable throughout the evening, the event was also held under the shadow of the ongoing Gaza war, with Israel’s participation sparking some pre-contest discord.
JJ’s performance was a masterclass in vocal agility and innovative musical arrangement. Dressed in a striking avant-garde ensemble, they commanded the stage, effortlessly transitioning between powerful operatic passages and the driving beat of the techno elements. The staging, a dynamic interplay of light and shadow, further accentuated the emotional intensity of “Wasted Love,” a song that explores themes of lost love and resilience with a dramatic flair.
The voting sequence proved to be a tense affair. While JJ consistently garnered high scores from the national juries, the public vote ultimately solidified their victory. The fusion of classical and contemporary elements in “Wasted Love” appeared to have struck a chord with a broad audience, demonstrating Eurovision’s capacity to embrace musical innovation.
Israel’s representative, Yuval Raphael, with their energetic and visually captivating performance, secured a commendable second place. Despite the controversy surrounding their participation in the lead-up to the contest, Raphael’s performance was met with enthusiastic applause from the audience in the arena.
In their winner’s speech, a visibly moved JJ expressed their gratitude: “This is an incredible honor. I wanted to create something truly unique, something that blended my classical training with a modern sound. To see it resonate with so many people across Europe is a dream come true. Music can bridge divides, and I hope ‘Wasted Love’ has touched hearts in its own way.”
JJ’s journey to Eurovision success is a testament to their dedication and artistic vision. A graduate of Vienna’s prestigious music conservatory, they have spent years honing their exceptional vocal technique. “Wasted Love” was a personal project, born from a desire to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories. Their victory marks Austria’s third Eurovision win, adding to the nation’s rich history in the competition.
The victory has been met with widespread acclaim in Austria, with national broadcasters celebrating JJ’s achievement and social media flooded with congratulatory messages. The innovative nature of “Wasted Love” has sparked considerable discussion among music critics, with many praising its bold originality and JJ’s exceptional vocal talent.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025, while a vibrant celebration of musical diversity, unfolded against a backdrop of geopolitical tensions. The participation of Israel, amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza, drew protests and calls for boycott from some quarters. However, organizers maintained that Eurovision is a non-political event focused on cultural exchange. The second-place finish of Israel’s Yuval Raphael underscores the complex and often intertwined nature of music, identity, and international relations.
Looking ahead, Austria will now have the honor of hosting the Eurovision Song Contest in 2026. This presents a significant opportunity for the nation to showcase its cultural landscape and hospitality to a global audience. Discussions regarding potential host cities are expected to begin shortly.
JJ’s victory with “Wasted Love” marks a significant moment in Eurovision history, highlighting the growing appetite for genre-bending and innovative musical expressions. Their exceptional talent and unique artistic vision have not only brought Eurovision glory to Austria but have also sparked conversation about the evolving sound of European popular music. The echoes of their groundbreaking performance in Basel are sure to resonate throughout the music world for years to come.
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