
Saturday 6th February sees the first of three UMK16 qualifying heats to find this year’s Finnish entry for Eurovision 2016. Here’s a look at the six competitors in heat one PLUS make sure to see who you have been voting for in our International Poll for Favourite Song at UMK2016 – SEE HERE
Saaro Alto: No Fear
Eastern influences give way to European dance rhythms and a catchy chorus. Complete with obligatory interpretive dancers, it’s a strong contender for the final. Bring on the dancing girls!
Mikko Herranen: Evil Tone
Don’t be fooled by the title, there’s nothing evil about this song. Finnish musician Mikko offers a typically Scandinavian rock ballad carrying a message of positivity and hope: Find the good in life and focus on it. Make it yours. We hope Mikko will make the Eurovision 2016 final his.
Stella Christine: Ain’t Got Time For Boys
Influenced by such greats as Ella Fitzgerald and Amy Winehouse, Stella Christine’s smooth, torchy singing is like a cool drink on a summers day. Refreshing. The laid back vibe of this song makes it ideal for relaxing with friends or dancing to with a lover. Your choice!
Eini: Drama
This is an upbeat, dance song, sung in native Finnish, which could appeal to traditionalists more than a wider, multilingual audience. However, the hooky chorus and electronic beats may overcome that issue and avoid any ‘drama’. Good luck, Eini.
Clemso: Thief
Originally from Nigeria, Clemso artfully combines Afro-beats with European grooves and overlays the entire song with his polished, velvety vocals. This glossy tune could steal a Eurovision win for Finland.
Paa-Aijat: Shamppenjataivas
There’s always a wild card in the pack when it comes to Eurovision entries and this could be the one to sweep the board in Stockholm, Lordi-style. Shamppenjataivas has an unashamedly ‘party’ feel that will have you on your feet dancing around your living room.
How do they rank?
Here’s my personal ranking for these six songs:
- Saaro Alto – No Fear
- Clemso – Thief
- Paa-Aijat – Shamppenjataivas
- Stella Christine – Ain’t Got Time For Boys
- Mikko Herranen – Evil Tone
- Eini – Drama
Do you agree? Disagree? Tell us who YOU think will go through to the UMK16 final.
