Here is the first of our “Languages” articles, where we examine the use of different languages used at the Eurovision Song Contest. Up until the late 1990’s, it was normal for the home language to be used by participating nations.

The first language sung at the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest, in 1956, was Dutch. The song was “De vogels van Holland” and was performed by Jetty Paerl. The 1956 results were kept secret, with only the winner announced.

The last time the Dutch language was seen at the Eurovision Song Contest was 2010. Sieneke performed “Ik ben verliefd (Sha-la-lie)”, however failed to qualify for the Final. She finished in 14th place, with a total of 29 points.

The Dutch language has also seen three winners at the Eurovision Song Contest – all from the Netherlands. In 1957, Corry Brokken performed “Net als toen”. In 1959, Teddy Scholten performed “Een beetje”. Finally, in 1969, Lenny Kuhr drew with three other countries with the song, “De troubadour”.

Author: Richard Taylor

Source: Eurovision Ireland