EXCLUSIVE: Eurovision legend Sonia says Britain’s poor results in recent years have been ‘political’ but reckons Mae Muller has ‘really good odds’
Sonia Evans attributes Britain’s underperforming Eurovision Song Contest performance in recent years to politics.
The 52-year-old singer memorably finished second in the 1993 competition with “Better The Devil You Know” and will be on stage at this year’s competition, held in her hometown of Liverpool.
While the United Kingdom has won the competition five times and finished runners-up 16 times, the country’s performance in recent years has been lackluster.
Speaking to Web for her new campaign featuring Camp Viejo, Sonia shared how she believes last year’s contestant Sam Ryder changed the fortunes of Britain and that Mae Muller has a good chance of winning.
“I think a lot of it was political.” “We just weren’t lucky,” she said. “We were always on the other side of the board and all vitality was just lost.”
In all honesty, Sonia Evans has blamed politics for Britain’s less-than-stellar results in the Eurovision Song Contest in recent years
Contender: Sonia believes last year’s Sam Ryder changed Britain’s fortunes and she believes Mae Muller (pictured) has a good chance of winning
“Since Sam came along, he’s turned the whole thing on its head.” He’s changed his approach and how positive he was about it. I did an interview with him and he’s the loveliest guy.’
Representing the UK this year with the song ‘I Wrote A Song’, Mae Muller was forced by her coach to take a break from singing ahead of Saturday’s final.
“I haven’t seen her yet, but she’s doing great.” “I think she has a really good chance,” Sonia said.
“It’s fun and lively and the song is really catchy.” I have a 12 year old daughter and she thinks it’s great. I’m keeping my fingers crossed that she will make it.
“You have to stay calm and focused.” You have less than three minutes to make a difference. Relax and be there. Look through the camera lens and engage with the audience.”
Although she was only 22 when she took part, Sonia was already an established artist with several top 20 hits.
The star said it can sometimes be risky for newer artists to take to the stage as it could hurt their chances of future success if they get a low score.
She said, “The thing is, if you’re a stranger and come last, that’s not the best thing in the world.”
Hit: Sonia memorably took second place in 1993 with “Better The Devil You Know.”
She said, “I think a lot of it was political.” We just weren’t lucky. “We were always on the other side of the board and all the vitality was just lost there.”
Uh Oh: Mae was forced into a vocal rest by her coach ahead of Saturday’s final
“It’s the highest profile you can get, and then when you finish last, it plays into you.” I had already established my name and didn’t have to prove anything. When you’re unknown, it’s difficult to choose.”
She added, “We’ve had known people who haven’t been doing so well.” Look what it’s done for Sam. “If someone is brilliant and not well known, give them a chance.”
Jay Aston, 1981 winner and former Bucks Fizz member, is less hopeful about the UL’s chances this year and recently admitted she doesn’t think Mae will win.
She said, “Sam Ryder changed the whole dynamic and landscape with one phenomenal song and he’s just a great artist – he just has these star qualities.”
“I wish Mae the best of luck but I don’t think it’s a winner to be honest.” I think she’s going to do really well and hopefully finish in the top five but I don’t think she’s going to win, unless something great happens that night.”
Campaign: Sonia “delivered the cheese” to Eurvison fans, teaming up with Campo Viejo to please those who didn’t get a ticket
Sonia has “delivered the cheese” to Eurovision fans by teaming up with Campo Viejo to please those who didn’t get a ticket.
One lucky winner had the star perform a rendition of “Better the Devil You Know” on her doorstep, and also received a free bottle of wine and a cheese board.
Camp Viego is offering Eurovision fans a limited edition basket which is on sale now HERE.