Oznia, a blog of Israel things

After a 24 hour voting period, Israel’s Kdam Eurovision winner, the winning song of the contest determining who will represent Israel in Eurovision ‘08, is Keilu Kan (video posted above), sung by Boaz Mauda. Mauda is the most recent winner of Israel’s Kochav Nolad (A Star is Born): the equivalent of American Idol in the United States. The song was chosen by the public from a pool of (arguably) the five best songs in Israel.

You are probably asking yourself: what is Eurovision? Eurovision is an annual song contest in the spring that includes many European countries, including Israel. Countries compete for the title of best song of the year, as well as the pride and glory of victory to bring back home. Eurovision is held in a different country each year, this year in Serbia.

Israel’s past entries in Eurovision (Kdam winners) have included Dana International (’98 winner) with Diva, and Ofra Haza (’83) with Chai. Last year’s Israel entry was Teapacks with Push the Button Despite it’s catchy tune, Push the Button sparked controversy due to its messages about terrorism. Despite coming in 24th in last year’s Eurovision, Push the Button is worth a listen:

For a sense of the craziness that is Eurovision, check out the 2006 Eurovision Winner from Finland: Lordi singing Hard Rock Hallelujah