Eurovision 2025: KAJ and Claude shine as 10 acts secure final spots in Basel

The 69th Eurovision Song Contest launched its first semifinal in Basel, Switzerland, captivating thousands of music fans with a diverse lineup of 15 acts. From sauna-inspired anthems to soulful ballads, the competition showcased Europe’s eclectic musical talent. Ten countries secured their place in Saturday’s grand final, while five others bid farewell. Determined by viewer votes, the results set the stage for a thrilling showdown.

• Key highlights: KAJ’s sauna-themed performance energized the crowd.
• Standout moment: Claude’s Parisian-style ballad resonated deeply.
• Surprise entries: Non-Italian acts brought Italian flair to the stage.
  This vibrant kickoff underscored Eurovision’s enduring appeal as a celebration of music and unity.

KAJ’s sauna anthem steals the spotlight

KAJ, a trio of Swedish-speaking Finns, electrified Basel’s St. Jakobshalle arena with their catchy tune “Bara Bada Bastu.” Translating to “just take a sauna,” the song paired infectious rhythms with playful choreography. Dancers dressed as lumberjacks and wrapped in towels amplified the performance’s quirky charm. The act resonated with audiences, earning KAJ a coveted spot in the final. Their success reflects Finland’s knack for blending humor and cultural pride in Eurovision entries.
Viewer votes propelled KAJ forward, affirming their status as betting market favorites. The trio’s performance tapped into the contest’s tradition of embracing bold, unconventional acts. Fans on social media praised the song’s earworm quality, predicting it could dominate Saturday’s final. KAJ’s rise highlights the power of authenticity in connecting with Eurovision’s global audience.

Claude’s soulful ballad captivates voters

At just 21, Dutch singer Claude delivered a standout performance with “C’est La Vie,” a soulful ballad evoking Parisian romance. His emotive vocals and minimalist staging struck a chord with viewers, securing the Netherlands’ place in the final. Claude’s entry marks a redemption arc for the country after last year’s controversy involving Joost Kein’s expulsion. The young artist’s poised delivery showcased his potential to follow in the footsteps of past Dutch winners.
Claude’s performance stood out for its emotional depth, contrasting with the high-energy acts around him. Social media buzz highlighted his vocal control and stage presence, with fans calling him a dark horse for the title. His advancement underscores Eurovision’s ability to elevate emerging talent on a global stage. The Dutch delegation expressed pride in Claude’s ability to represent their nation with grace.

Unexpected Italian flair from San Marino and Estonia

Two acts brought Italian-inspired energy to the semifinal, despite hailing from outside Italy. San Marino’s DJ Gabry Ponte performed “Tutta L’Italia,” a pulsating dance track that had the arena pulsing. Estonia’s Tommy Cash followed with “Espresso Macchiato,” a caffeinated pop anthem brimming with charisma. Both secured final spots, surprising some analysts who expected more traditional entries to dominate.

• Gabry Ponte’s edge: His DJ roots brought club vibes to Eurovision.
• Tommy Cash’s quirk: The Estonian’s theatrical style won over voters.
• Cultural crossover: Both acts leaned into Italy’s musical heritage.
  These performances highlighted Eurovision’s knack for blending cultural influences, creating moments that resonate across borders. Fans celebrated the diversity, with social media abuzz about the “Italian invasion” from unexpected corners of Europe.

Iceland and Norway add grit and heart

Iceland’s brother duo VAEB earned their final spot with “Róa,” a rap-infused track about rowing that blended gritty beats with storytelling. The performance’s raw energy connected with viewers, marking Iceland as a contender. Norway’s Kyle Alessandro followed with “Lighter,” a heartfelt pop song that showcased his vocal range. Both acts brought distinct flavors to the semifinal, proving the contest’s strength lies in its variety.
VAEB’s performance leaned into Iceland’s rugged cultural identity, with visuals of stormy seas and oars cutting through water. Alessandro, meanwhile, opted for a stripped-back approach, letting his voice carry the emotional weight. Their advancement reflects the audience’s appetite for authenticity and narrative-driven performances. Social media posts lauded both acts for their unique contributions to the lineup.

Ukraine and Portugal secure emotional entries

Ukraine’s act delivered a poignant performance that resonated deeply, earning a spot in the final. The song’s themes of resilience and hope struck a universal chord, reflecting the nation’s ongoing struggles. Portugal, meanwhile, brought a melodic entry that blended traditional and modern elements, captivating voters with its sincerity. Both performances underscored Eurovision’s role as a platform for emotional storytelling.

• Ukraine’s message: The act channeled national pride and perseverance.
• Portugal’s charm: A fusion of folk and pop won hearts.
• Voter connection: Emotional depth drove their success.
  Fans on social media hailed Ukraine’s performance as a highlight, with many calling it a potential winner. Portugal’s entry, though quieter, gained traction for its authenticity and polish.

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Poland and Albania round out the finalists

Poland’s entry brought high-energy pop to the stage, with dynamic choreography and bold visuals securing their place. Albania followed with a dramatic ballad that showcased vocal prowess, earning praise for its intensity. Both acts added to the final’s diverse lineup, ensuring a mix of genres and styles. Their performances highlighted the semifinal’s competitive nature, where every detail mattered.
Poland’s act leaned into modern production techniques, creating a slick, radio-ready sound. Albania, by contrast, embraced traditional influences, delivering a performance that felt timeless. Social media reactions emphasized the contrast between the two, with fans debating which would shine brightest in the final. The results cemented both nations’ ability to compete on Eurovision’s global stage.

Five countries exit the competition

Azerbaijan, Belgium, Croatia, Cyprus, and Slovenia failed to advance, ending their Eurovision journey in Basel. Each brought unique elements, from Azerbaijan’s fusion of pop and traditional sounds to Belgium’s experimental electronic beats. Croatia’s rock-infused performance, Cyprus’s dance anthem, and Slovenia’s introspective ballad also fell short of the votes needed. The eliminations sparked discussions among fans about the unpredictability of viewer preferences.

• Azerbaijan’s effort: A bold mix of genres didn’t resonate enough.
• Belgium’s risk: Experimental sounds divided the audience.
• Croatia’s grit: Rock energy wasn’t enough to secure votes.
  The departures highlighted the fierce competition, where even strong performances faced tough odds. Social media posts expressed disappointment but also admiration for the eliminated acts’ creativity.

Basel’s vibrant Eurovision atmosphere

Basel transformed into a musical hub as fans from across Europe and beyond flocked to the city. St. Jakobshalle arena buzzed with excitement, its 12,000 seats filled with flag-waving supporters. The city’s hosting role came after Swiss singer Nemo’s 2024 victory, marking Switzerland’s return as a Eurovision epicenter. Local businesses capitalized on the influx, with cafes and bars packed with visitors.
The arena’s atmosphere was electric, with fans chanting for their favorites and waving glow sticks. Basel’s compact size and scenic Rhine River backdrop added charm, making it a fitting stage for the contest. Organizers reported smooth operations, with volunteers ensuring a festive experience. The city’s embrace of Eurovision underscored its global cultural significance.

Celine Dion’s nostalgic cameo

Canadian superstar Celine Dion, who won Eurovision for Switzerland in 1988, sent a video message that aired during the semifinal. The clip featured her 1988 hit “Ne partez pas sans moi,” performed by last year’s competitors as a tribute. Dion’s appearance sparked cheers from the crowd, reminding fans of her Eurovision roots before her global fame. The moment added a layer of nostalgia to the evening.
Social media lit up with clips of Dion’s message, with fans praising her enduring connection to the contest. The tribute performance, blending past and present, highlighted Eurovision’s ability to bridge generations. Organizers noted the segment was a deliberate nod to Switzerland’s storied history with the competition.

Swiss humor shines in hosting

Hosts Hazel Brugger and Sandra Studer brought levity with a comic song celebrating Swiss inventions like the Swiss Army knife, muesli, and processed cheese. They cheekily claimed Eurovision itself as a Swiss creation, referencing its 1956 debut in Lausanne. The performance drew laughs and applause, setting a lighthearted tone for the evening. Their chemistry kept the audience engaged between acts.

• Swiss pride: The song leaned into national quirks with charm.
• Crowd reaction: Fans embraced the playful tribute.
• Historical nod: The Lausanne reference tied past to present.
  The hosts’ humor resonated on social media, with clips of their song circulating widely. Their ability to balance wit and warmth reinforced Switzerland’s role as a gracious Eurovision host.

Political tensions and protests loom

Despite Eurovision’s “United by Music” motto, political undercurrents surfaced in Basel. Organizers deployed over 1,000 police officers amid expected protests against Israel’s participation, tied to its ongoing conflict in Gaza. A demonstration against antisemitism was also planned for Thursday, coinciding with Israeli singer Yuval Raphael’s semifinal performance. Raphael, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, carries added symbolic weight.
The European Broadcasting Union tightened its code of conduct after last year’s controversies, emphasizing neutrality and inclusivity. Audience members can wave Palestinian flags in the arena, reversing a 2024 ban, but participants are restricted to national flags onstage. These rules sparked debate among delegations, particularly those wanting to display LGBTQ+ pride flags. Social media reflected the tension, with fans divided over the contest’s handling of political expression.