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 1990 - 1999 |
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1990
UK entrant Emma wants to 'Give A Little Love Back To The World'; unfortunately the world doesn't want it. She comes sixth as Italy wins in Zagreb.
1991
Sweden tied with France, claiming victory for more second places. Seventeen year old Samantha Janus delivers 'A Message To Your Heart'. The Eurovision judges remain unmoved, and she finishes joint tenth. Samantha now refers to Eurovision as one of the worst experiences of her career.
1992
Ireland's Linda Martin - with a Johnny Logan (him again) song - beats UK's Michael Ball for top spot in Malmo. Michael is later quoted as saying he'd rather have drawing pins stuck in his eyes than take part in Eurovision again.
1993
Eurovision welcomes eastern Europe, but it's business as usual on the voting front, as Ireland's Niamh Kavanagh wins ahead of UK entrant, Sonia. Our Scouse diva wins the chart battle, though. Rumours of organised political voting abound backstage at the converted showjumping arena in Ireland.
1994
The third Irish Eurovision success in a row, and sixth in total. For the UK, Frances Ruffelle warbles 'We Will Be Free (Lonely Symphony)', coming a lonely tenth. The interval act is an as-yet unknown 'Riverdance'.
1995
Germany appear to capture the spirit of Eurovision with 'Verliebt In Dich' by husband and wife duo Stone & Stone. It finishes last. Norway wins a second time, and UK's Love City Groove are joint tenth.
1996
The charming Australian expat Gina G goes 'Ooh Aah Just A Little Bit'. But only enough to take her to eighth place, despite topping the British charts. Ireland decides one year without the Eurovision crown is enough, and wins comfortably. Peter Gronvall, son of Abba's Benny Andersson appears for Sweden. Morten Harket of A-Ha co-presents in Oslo.
1997
Norway set a nul points record, while Katrina & The Waves set a total points record, as the UK storm to glory. Boyzone's Ronan Keating is co-presenter in Dublin.
1998
Dana International takes Eurovision for Israel. Her glamorous looks, dress, and status as a former man dent that nation's reputation for conservatism. BBC executives were heard to utter a sigh of relief when our own Imaani came a creditable second. Staging the Eurovision Song Contest is an expensive business, you know...
1999
Heads of Delegation sigh with relief at the thought of going to a warm country. A week in Israel is a welcome reward after touring Europe for years. The UK entry is a girl group called Precious with the song 'Say It Again' written by Paul Varney. But one Contest in the sun is enough and Sweden win with 'Take Me To Your Heaven' sung by Charlotte Nilsson.
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History
