Happy Independence Day, Finland! What a better way to celebrate the land of saunas, hard rock, and Santa Claus than with a piña colada in hand and a thrilling journey through Finland’s rocking Eurovision history? Let’s dive in!
From debut to victory
Finland made its Eurovision debut in 1961 with Laila Kinnuen and the song ‘Valoa Ikkunassa’ (‘Light In The Window’). While their early entries didn’t always shine at the top, Finland’s perseverance paid off 45 years later, when they shocked the Eurovision world with an unforgettable victory.
In 2006, the legendary Lordi roared to glory with ‘Hard Rock Hallelujah’. Their monster metal anthem crushed the competition, scoring a then-record 292 points. Lordi not only claimed Finland’s first (and so far, only) win but also redefined what Eurovision performances could be. (Yes, you can wear monster masks and still steal Europe’s hearts!)
Fast forward to 2023, and Finland came so close to another victory with Käärijä and his electrifying ‘Cha Cha Cha’. Though the juries held him back, he claimed the televote crown and cemented his place as a Eurovision icon. Cha Cha Cha became more than a song—it became a movement!
Hard Rock, Finland’s Eurovision DNA
When it comes to hard rock, Finland is the real deal. This is the country that’s given us some of Eurovision’s most head-banging moments:
• Hanna Pakarinen (Leave Me Alone, 2007): A dark and moody rock ballad from Finland’s Idols winner, finishing 17th in the Grand Final.
• Teräsbetoni (Missä Miehet Ratsastaa, 2008): Finland doubled down on metal with this warrior-inspired anthem. Though it placed 22nd, it remains a rock favorite among Eurovision fans.
• Blind Channel brought nu-metal energy with ‘Dark Side’ in 2021, finishing an impressive 6th—their best result since Lordi’s victory.
• The Rasmus followed in 2022 with their gritty anthem Jezebel, keeping the rock spirit alive.
Finland’s love for heavy riffs and bold performances has made them a fan favorite and an unmistakable force in Eurovision.
Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu: The Road to Eurovision
Since 2012, Finland has chosen its Eurovision entry through the national selection show, Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu (UMK). It’s become a highlight of the Eurovision calendar, showcasing a mix of emerging talent and established stars.
This season, UMK 2025 will take place on 8th February at the Nokia Arena in Tampere. A total of seven songs will compete for the honor of representing Finland, with the entries dropping throughout January. Mark your calendars for 8th January, when the artists will officially be revealed. Stay tuned—it’s bound to be epic!
Why We Love Finland in Eurovision
Finland’s Eurovision story is one of resilience, reinvention, and rocking out. From ballads to monsters, from nu-metal to Cha Cha Cha, they never fail to surprise and delight. Here’s to more unforgettable moments from the land of endless saunas and eternal headbanging! Who’s your favorite Finnish Eurovision act? Let us know in the comments below!
