Azerbaijan’s Dihaj among favorites to win Eurovision-2017
By Laman Ismayilova
Leading betting agencies William Hill and Betfred have named Italian singer Francesco Gabbani an early favorite to win Eurovision-2017.
His song “Occidentali’s Karma” has already topped the Italian FIMI Singles Chart and racked up 34 million views on YouTube, Wiwiblogs reported.
The bookies currently have Sweden listed as second-favorite to win – despite the fact the country hasn’t even chosen its winner. Their high ranking stems, no doubt, from Sweden’s recent strength at the contest and, to some extent, the selection of songs in this year’s Melodifestivalen.
Russia currently finds itself down as third favorite to win Eurovision 2017. Its historical strength in the contest, coupled with a rather impressive shortlist of artists, have given the bookies hope for success. But Russia isn’t alone. Its yet-to-be-revealed artist shares third position with Greece’s Demy.
The rest of the Top 10 includes Australia, which will reveal its song and artist on March 7; Romania, whose selection includes a rather fantastic yodeller; Bulgaria, where Gery-Nikol remains prominent among the rumoured contenders; Estonia, which will choose between Kerli, Elina Born, and Laura & Koit (and some others) on March 4; Azerbaijan, where DiHaj will likely go for something edgy and electronic; and Armenia, which is fielding balladeer Artsvik.
Azerbaijani entry at song contest will perform in the first part of the first semifinal of the contest.
The final of the international song contest "Eurovision-2017" will be held in Kiev (Ukraine) on May 13, the semifinals - on May 9 and 11.
The official opening of the contest will take place on May 7 at the Mariinsky Palace, Kiev.
The traditional European village (Euro Village), which opens during the contest, will operate on Khreshchatyk Street.
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Laman Ismayilova is AzerNews’ staff journalist, follow her on Twitter: @Lam_Ismayilova
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