We’re into the top 20 now and first up in that exclusive group is the penultimate ex-Yugoslav country – Serbia. Serbia first entered Eurovision as an independent nation in 2007 (having previously entered as part of Yugoslavia and then as Serbia and Montenegro) and were the first country to win Eurovision on their debut (excluding when Switzerland won in the first ever Eurovision). Serbia have followed a slightly similar pattern to Israel in that last year they entered a very uptempo, fun song, sung for the first time fully in English. Israel have stuck with all English but switched to a much more serious and reflective song. Serbia have done the same – all in English and a more serious tone – their song this year is about domestic abuse. Will it seem them reaching the top 10 again?

Sanja looks curiously like Amy Winehouse and and impressively good voice. Try not to let the theatrical performance (notably the clawing hands) distract you from a very competent and worthy song. She’s very serious in interviews and clearly believes strongly in the message of her song. Will that work for Eurovision? Well, it’s not the only song this year with a serious/sad message/background and you may remember Hungary doing well a couple of years ago with a song around child abuse! So it’s not to be counted out.

Of their eight appearances so far in Eurovision, Serbia have qualified for the final six of those times, and when they’ve done so, they’ve generally done well. Drawn in the weaker/easier semi-final, this should make the final once again.

Live at Eurovision in Concert in Amsterdam

Serbia at the Eurovision Song Contest:

First entered: 2007

Appearances (excluding this year): 8

Best result: Winner 2007

Last year’s result: 10th