In a spectacular culmination of music, emotion, and showmanship, Austria’s JJ captured the hearts of millions to win the 2025 Eurovision Song Contest on Sunday. His powerful operatic performance of “Wasted Love” led him to a historic victory at the world’s most-watched live music television event.
Austria’s JJ Delivers a Powerful Eurovision Performance
Austria’s JJ, whose real name is Johannes Pietsch, stunned viewers across Europe with his unique blend of opera and techno. The 24-year-old countertenor’s song, “Wasted Love,” explores the pain of unrequited love with sweeping vocals and dramatic staging. His performance, shot in black and white using a vintage 4:3 aspect ratio, evoked both nostalgia and innovation, setting him apart from the competition.
The song begins with delicate lyricism, swelling into a stirring ballad before exploding into a vibrant techno finale. The emotional range and technical prowess displayed by JJ won over both national juries and televoters across the continent.
This marks Austria’s first Eurovision win since Conchita Wurst’s iconic victory in 2014. As the points rolled in during the tense vote reveal, Austria’s JJ ultimately triumphed with 436 points, edging out Israel (357 points) and Estonia (356 points) in a nail-biting finish that stretched into the early hours of Sunday morning.
“Thank you, Europe, for making my dreams come true,” JJ said tearfully after receiving the coveted microphone-shaped trophy. “Love is the strongest force in the world. Let’s spread more love,” he added, in a heartfelt message that resonated with fans.
Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker praised JJ’s historic win, calling it “a fantastic success” and noting that the young singer is “making Austrian music history.”
Meanwhile, the Philippine Consulate General in Frankfurt congratulated the Austrian-Filipino artist on Facebook: “What an incredible moment—Filipino pride on the European stage!”
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The 69th Eurovision Song Contest was hosted in Basel, Switzerland, at the St. Jakobshalle arena. More than 6,500 attendees packed the venue, with another 36,000 watching a live simulcast in a nearby stadium. Around 160 million viewers tuned in globally to witness the grand spectacle.
The show featured 26 finalists from across Europe and beyond, following a series of semi-final eliminations earlier in the week. Eurovision once again delivered its signature blend of extravagant costumes, dazzling lights, and diverse musical genres—from power ballads to avant-garde pop.
Anticipation was high throughout the week amid rumors that Celine Dion, the 1988 Eurovision winner, would make a surprise appearance. The Canadian icon, who launched her international career representing Switzerland, has been battling Stiff Person Syndrome. Despite efforts from organizers, Dion was unable to attend.
“We have been in contact with her through various channels and regret that ultimately it was not possible to include her in the show,” Eurovision officials confirmed, wishing her good health.
The contest was not without controversy. Israel’s participation in Eurovision 2025 drew protests over the ongoing war in Gaza. Israeli entrant Yuval Raphael, a survivor of the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas, performed her song “New Day Will Rise” amid loud whistles and a brief stage intrusion by protestors. Two individuals attempted to climb onto the stage and threw paint but were stopped and handed over to police.
Elsewhere in Basel, clashes between pro-Palestinian demonstrators and riot police resulted in brief but tense confrontations, with tear gas being deployed.
Diverse Musical Showcases from Across Europe
Beyond the headlines and drama, Eurovision 2025 was a celebration of musical diversity. Entries ranged from Portugal’s intimate guitar ballad to Lithuania’s alternative rock anthem. Italy, Greece, and France delivered strong showings, though Sweden, long considered a favorite with its sauna-themed comedy track “Bara Bada Bastu” by trio KAJ, surprisingly placed fourth.
Other memorable performances included:
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Estonia’s Tommy Cash with the quirky “Espresso Macchiato,” securing third place.
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Finland’s Erika Vikman, who performed “Ich Komme” atop a spark-shooting golden microphone.
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Poland’s Justyna Steczkowska, returning to Eurovision 30 years after her debut.
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France’s Louane, with an emotional rendition of “Maman,” a tribute to her late parents.
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Malta’s Miriana Conte, ending her pop number “Serving” while bouncing on an exercise ball.
With Austria’s JJ now holding the crown, the Alpine nation will host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026. Excitement is already building, and expectations will be high following JJ’s groundbreaking win.
His emotional performance, genre-defying music, and powerful message of love have cemented his place in Eurovision history—and marked a new era for Austria’s JJ, now a global star.
Source- EWN