17 Best Eurovision Songs of All Time: Epic Eurovision Hits

Hey there, fellow beat enthusiasts! TBone here, owner of Level Tunes and an unapologetic Eurovision fanatic.

There’s something about the show’s fusion of culture, music, and flamboyance that never fails to hit the right notes with me. I’ve been spinning discs and pounding beats as a DJ for years, yet I always find myself drawn back to these unforgettable Eurovision tunes.

So, I decided it’s high time to compile my ultimate list of the 17 Best Eurovision Songs of All Time!

Ready to embark on this musical journey across borders and decades? Stick around for some infectious melodies, powerful voices, and heart-stirring performances.

Let’s get this show on the road!

Here are the best Eurovision songs of all time that you can check out:

List Of Best Eurovision Songs of All Time

Best Eurovision tunes of all time in a list format:

1. ABBA – “Waterloo” (1974, Polar Music)

Album: Waterloo

Oh, come on, how could I not kick things off with ABBA’s “Waterloo”? This chart-topping gem from the Swedish quartet was the start of their international career. Released under Polar Music in 1974 and featured on their album also titled “Waterloo”, this track quickly became synonymous with Eurovision. With its infectious beat, catchy melody, and Agnetha and Anni-Frid’s dynamite vocals, “Waterloo” is a perfect representation of what Eurovision is all about: grand performances and memorable music. Not to mention, Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’s superb songwriting skills. For these reasons and more, it nabs the top spot on my list!

2. Céline Dion – “Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi” (1988, Disques Carrere)

Album: The Best of Celine Dion

Second on the list is “Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi” from none other than Céline Dion, the Canadian powerhouse who won for Switzerland. The song is featured on her “The Best of Celine Dion” album, released under Disques Carrere in 1988. Dion’s emotive performance paired with the ballad’s poignant lyrics produced a memorable, chilling performance. It showcases Dion’s phenomenal range and gave her a platform to embark on her highly successful international career. This song is a testament to the power of a simple melody paired with a killer voice, and that’s why it’s a must-have on my list.

3. Loreen – “Euphoria” (2012, Warner Music Sweden)

Album: Heal

Euphoria indeed! Loreen’s hypnotic performance of “Euphoria” at the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest left the world spellbound. Released under Warner Music Sweden on her “Heal” album, it’s a modern Eurovision classic. With its electrifying beats, a commanding vocal performance, and a hauntingly beautiful melody, “Euphoria” transcends typical pop music. It’s a track that embodies the progression of Eurovision over the years, combining cutting-edge music with the quintessential theatrics the show is known for. This track was a game-changer and, for me, an obvious addition to the list!

4. Johnny Logan – “Hold Me Now” (1987, Epic)

Album: Hold Me Now

Johnny Logan, aka Mr. Eurovision, won the contest twice, but his 1987 victory with “Hold Me Now” was something special. Released under Epic Records and featured on his eponymous album, the ballad is a masterstroke of heartfelt songwriting and emotive singing. Logan’s powerful, resonant voice carries the song, drawing listeners into every heartfelt word. It’s a classic Eurovision ballad that showcases the depth of Logan’s talent. I chose it because it’s a touching, sincere song that never fails to leave an impression.

5. Conchita Wurst – “Rise Like a Phoenix” (2014, ORF-Enterprise)

Album: Conchita

No Eurovision list would be complete without Conchita Wurst’s triumphant “Rise Like a Phoenix.” The Austrian winner’s anthem, featured on the “Conchita” album and released under ORF-Enterprise, it’s a powerful, dramatic ballad. Wurst’s extraordinary vocals and the song’s empowering message of resilience and self-belief resonated with audiences worldwide, proving that Eurovision songs can, and often do, transcend the competition itself. This song has left a lasting impact on me and, I believe, on the music world at large.

6. Salvador Sobral – “Amar Pelos Dois” (2017, Sons em Trânsito)

Album: Excuse Me (Live)

A delightful diversion from the usual Eurovision fare, Salvador Sobral’s “Amar Pelos Dois” is an elegantly crafted love ballad that won hearts in 2017. Featured in his “Excuse Me (Live)” album and released under Sons em Trânsito, this beautiful, melancholic track stands out due to its simplicity and Sobral’s hauntingly beautiful voice. Its pure, emotional, and intimate vibe makes it a unique Eurovision winner and earns it a spot on my list.

7. Bucks Fizz – “Making Your Mind Up” (1981, RCA)

Album: Bucks Fizz

Nothing screams Eurovision like a catchy pop song combined with an unforgettable performance. “Making Your Mind Up” by Bucks Fizz, released under RCA and featured in their self-titled album, embodies this spirit. The song is remembered not only for its upbeat tempo and catchy tune but also for the memorable skirt-rip dance routine. It’s the blend of energetic melody, entertaining performance, and nostalgic 80s pop charm that makes it one of my all-time favorites.

8. Dana International – “Diva” (1998, IMP Dance)

Album: The Album

Dana International broke barriers with her victory in 1998 with “Diva,” an energetic dance anthem. The track, released under IMP Dance and part of “The Album,” symbolizes freedom, empowerment, and liberation. The combination of a catchy dance beat, Dana’s charismatic performance, and the important message of inclusivity and acceptance makes this song an important part of Eurovision history and an easy pick for my list.

9. Måns Zelmerlöw – “Heroes” (2015, Warner Music Sweden)

Album: Perfectly Damaged

“Heroes” by Måns Zelmerlöw stands as a modern Eurovision anthem, blending a folk-pop melody with electronic beats, creating an incredibly catchy track. Released under Warner Music Sweden and part of “Perfectly Damaged,” the song also boasts a visually spectacular performance. Zelmerlöw’s powerful vocals, the inspiring lyrics, and the unforgettable staging make it a standout in the Eurovision catalogue.

10. Dima Bilan – “Believe” (2008, EMI)

Album: Believe

The Russian singer Dima Bilan captured hearts in 2008 with his emotional performance of “Believe.” The song, part of the eponymous album and released under EMI, combines a powerful pop ballad with Bilan’s compelling vocal delivery. It’s the genuine emotion and the message of believing in oneself that makes this song an essential pick for this list.

11. Brotherhood of Man – “Save Your Kisses for Me” (1976, Pye Records)

Album: Love and Kisses from Brotherhood of Man

An irresistibly cute and catchy track, “Save Your Kisses for Me” by Brotherhood of Man, was the winning song in 1976. Released by Pye Records and part of “Love and Kisses from Brotherhood of Man,” this song charms with its sweet harmonies and wholesome lyrics. Its enduring popularity and the warm, fuzzy feeling it induces make it one of my top picks.

12. Marija Šerifović – “Molitva” (2007, Connective Records)

Album: Molitva – The Best Of

Serbian singer Marija Šerifović delivered a powerhouse performance with “Molitva” in 2007. Featured on “Molitva – The Best Of” and released under Connective Records, the song’s powerful chorus and Šerifović’s emotive voice created a memorable Eurovision moment. The song’s profound sense of longing, combined with its orchestral arrangement, lends it a timeless quality, earning it a place on my list.

13. Nicole – “Ein bißchen Frieden” (1982, Jupiter Records)

Album: Ein bißchen Frieden

Nicole’s gentle yet heartfelt plea for peace in “Ein bißchen Frieden” won Eurovision in 1982. Released under Jupiter Records and part of the album sharing the same title, the song resonates with its universal message and Nicole’s soothing voice. Its enduring relevance and message of hope make it an absolute favorite of mine.

14. Lena – “Satellite” (2010, Universal Music Germany)

Album: My Cassette Player

A modern Eurovision classic, Lena’s “Satellite” from 2010, is an upbeat, quirky pop tune that won audiences over with its charm. Released under Universal Music Germany and featured in “My Cassette Player,” the song boasts an incredibly catchy chorus and Lena’s unique vocal style. This song stands out for its refreshingly different vibe and makes it into my top 17.

15. Eimear Quinn – “The Voice” (1996, Cinepoly)

Album: Through the Lens of a Tear

Eimear Quinn’s ethereal “The Voice” is a uniquely enchanting entry from 1996. This atmospheric and mystical track, released under Cinepoly and part of “Through the Lens of a Tear,” showcases Quinn’s exceptional vocals and the rich Irish musical tradition. The Celtic charm and the otherworldly aura of the song make it an unforgettable Eurovision winner and one of my personal favorites.

16. Netta – “Toy” (2018, Tedy Productions & Unicell)

Album: Netta’s Wonderland

“Toy” by Netta, the winner of 2018, is a bold, quirky track that left a strong impression with its powerful message and Netta’s dynamic performance. Released under Tedy Productions & Unicell and part of “Netta’s Wonderland,” this innovative track with its mix of pop, electronic, and traditional music elements is a celebration of diversity and individuality, earning it a spot on my list.

17. Secret Garden – “Nocturne” (1995, Mercury)

Album: Songs from a Secret Garden

Rounding up my list is the hypnotic “Nocturne” by Secret Garden, the winner of 1995. This enchanting track, released under Mercury and part of “Songs from a Secret Garden,” blends instrumental music with minimalistic vocals, creating a beautiful, dreamlike atmosphere. Its unique style, emphasizing music more than words, offers a refreshing change from typical Eurovision songs, making it a captivating finale to my list.

Fun Facts: Top Eurovision Tracks of All Time

ABBA – “Waterloo”

Fun fact: ABBA’s performance of “Waterloo” in Brighton, UK, wasn’t just their Eurovision debut, it was their first-ever performance outside of Sweden! This legendary track took the band from national fame to global stardom, paving the way for their hugely successful international career.

Céline Dion – “Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi”

Interesting tidbit: Céline Dion, though known globally as a Canadian artist, won the 1988 Eurovision for Switzerland. She wasn’t a Swiss citizen, but the rules allow for countries to choose any performer they like, irrespective of their nationality. The win gave Dion international exposure, setting the stage for her future worldwide success.

Loreen – “Euphoria”

Did you know? “Euphoria” by Loreen holds the record for receiving the highest number of 12 points (maximum points a country can award to a song) in Eurovision history, garnering the top score from eighteen countries. That’s an emphatic win!

Johnny Logan – “Hold Me Now”

Here’s something cool: Johnny Logan is known as ‘Mr. Eurovision.’ Why? Because he won the Eurovision Song Contest three times! Twice as a performer (1980, 1987) and once as a songwriter (1992). “Hold Me Now” was his second winning performance.

Conchita Wurst – “Rise Like a Phoenix”

Fun fact: Conchita Wurst, the stage persona of Austrian singer Tom Neuwirth, was a controversial figure in the 2014 contest. Despite facing criticism and prejudice, Wurst emerged victorious, becoming a symbol of strength and acceptance, and making “Rise Like a Phoenix” a rallying anthem for the LGBTQ+ community.

Salvador Sobral – “Amar Pelos Dois”

Did you know? Salvador Sobral’s “Amar Pelos Dois” was written by his sister, Luísa Sobral. Also, it is the highest-scoring winner in the history of Eurovision’s current voting system.

Dima Bilan – “Believe”

Interesting tidbit: In his 2008 performance, Dima Bilan was joined on stage by Hungarian violinist Edvin Marton, playing a Stradivarius, and Russian Olympic gold medalist figure skater Evgeni Plushenko. Talk about a star-studded performance!

Netta – “Toy”

Fun fact: “Toy” became a viral hit, amassing millions of views on YouTube within days of its release. The song also became a feminist anthem, with its lyrics celebrating female empowerment and individuality.

Well, there you have it, my fellow music lovers – a melodic journey through some of the greatest Eurovision hits.

From pop anthems to touching ballads, these unforgettable tunes encapsulate the spirit of this iconic competition. Stay tuned for more music insights from your DJ, TBone!

Thanks for reading.

TBone