Estonia went bigger than usual with their long-running national selection show, Eesti Laul, with this year being the 14th edition. 40 songs were entered, with four quarter final and two semi final shows, and culminating with a final of ten artists.
No fewer than four previous Eurovision entries are present in this final: Elina Nechayava (2018) Anna Sahlene (2002), Ott Leppland (2012), and Stig Rästa (2015). You might think that might lead to quite a stellar final, though I have to say, it’s a trifle bland offering and the Eurovision alumni have not stretched themselves from their comfort zones, or indeed matched their previous entries.
One song and artist does stand out – and both myself and I think general fan consensus is that this would be Estonia’s best bet for Turin.
Stefan “Hope”
Stefan is a two times Eesti Laul finalist, reaching the final in both 2019 and 2020, and was runner up in 2019, finishing as top with the jury, but losing out in the televote only “super final”. This very Western-inspired song is the most distinctive in the line up, and Stefan’s vocal really seems to suit this genre.
The final takes place from 5.30pm UK time on Saturday 12 February. You can watch the show via the broadcaster’s website.