Finland has a long and unique history at the Eurovision Song Contest. While the country went decades without a win, its entries have often stood out for their originality, boldness, and cultural identity. From heavy metal to hyperpop, Finland has never been afraid to be different.
Here are some of the most memorable and successful Finnish performances at Eurovision over the years.
Lordi – “Hard Rock Hallelujah” (2006)
Lordi made history in 2006 when they brought monster costumes and hard rock to the Eurovision stage. Their song “Hard Rock Hallelujah” shocked audiences and delighted fans, ultimately winning the contest. This was Finland’s first and only Eurovision victory so far.
The performance was loud, theatrical, and unlike anything the competition had seen before. It broke stereotypes and opened the door for more diverse acts in future contests.
Blind Channel – “Dark Side” (2021)
Blind Channel continued Finland’s rock tradition with their 2021 entry, “Dark Side.” Describing their sound as “violent pop,” the band brought high energy, strong vocals, and a rebellious message. They finished sixth in the final, giving Finland its best result since Lordi.
The performance struck a chord with younger viewers and showed that Finland could still surprise Eurovision audiences while staying true to its musical roots.
Käärijä – “Cha Cha Cha” (2023)
Käärijä’s entry “Cha Cha Cha” was one of the most talked-about performances of 2023. Mixing techno beats with metal flair and a hint of humor, the song became an instant fan favorite. Käärijä wore a neon green bolero and delivered a wild, unforgettable stage show.
Although he placed second in the final, he won the public vote by a large margin. Many saw him as the true winner of the year. “Cha Cha Cha” also became a massive hit on streaming platforms across Europe.
Softengine – “Something Better” (2014)
In 2014, Softengine brought a more classic pop-rock sound to Eurovision. Their song “Something Better” was clean, emotional, and well-performed. The band finished 11th, which was Finland’s best result in several years at that time.
The performance showed Finland could compete with a polished, mainstream sound while still standing out.
Krista Siegfrids – “Marry Me” (2013)
Krista Siegfrids made headlines in 2013 with her pop anthem “Marry Me.” The performance was bright, bold, and ended with a same-sex kiss on stage. It was a message of support for marriage equality at a time when Finland was still debating the issue.
Though she didn’t reach the top ranks, the act earned global attention and highlighted Finland’s willingness to make a statement through Eurovision.
Why Finland Stands Out
Finland may not win often, but its entries rarely go unnoticed. Whether it’s monster rock, neon-clad dancers, or messages of social progress, Finnish acts bring something distinct to the Eurovision stage.
Finland’s artists tend to perform songs in English, but they often include cultural or visual elements that are unmistakably Finnish. This balance helps them appeal to a broad audience while staying rooted in national identity.
Looking Ahead
With acts like Käärijä and Blind Channel gaining international popularity, Finland is becoming known for bold, genre-blending entries. These songs connect with fans both inside and outside the competition.
As Eurovision continues to evolve, Finland will likely remain one of its most creative and unpredictable participants. And that makes every new entry something to watch.