Austria’s JJ Triumphs at Eurovision 2025 with Hit Song ‘Wasted Love’ – CNN Highlights

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Austrian singer JJ just took home Austria’s third Eurovision Song Contest title with their operatic pop anthem “Wasted Love.” This grand final took place in Switzerland, and JJ’s stunning performance brought the house down.

JJ, who has roots in both Austria and the Philippines, wowed the crowd with their impressive vocals and a dramatic stage setup that evoked a shipwreck. This victory marks Austria’s first win since Conchita Wurst’s triumph in 2014.

Israel’s Yuval Raphael followed closely in second place. A survivor of the tragic Hamas attacks in October 2023, she performed “New Day Will Rise,” which deeply resonated with the audience. Estonia came in third, while San Marino finished last.

Before the big night, JJ shared their feelings: “I’m so honored that people are connecting with my music. This is the type of music I want to keep making.” The singer also opened up about a tough year and how it inspired the song about unreciprocated love. They mentioned that winning might just make them break down in tears and call their family.

The Eurovision grand final is more than just a singing competition; it’s a significant event for the LGBTQ+ community. Year after year, it showcases a vibrant mix of performers and styles, bringing together talents from across the continent.

This year featured a diverse range of acts, including a Latvian group whose ethno-pop tune blended folk chants with enchanting visuals, a Ukrainian glam rock band, and a quirky Estonian artist parodying Italian coffee culture. An Albanian duo also caught fans’ attention with their haunting hit “Zjerm.”

Some viewers were hoping for a surprise appearance by Celine Dion, the legendary winner from Switzerland in 1988, but she didn’t show up.

While Eurovision claims to be an apolitical event, it certainly isn’t free from political undertones. Following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Russia and Belarus were banned from participating. This year, there was some controversy surrounding Israel’s inclusion due to ongoing conflicts in Gaza.

Raphael performed against a backdrop that included flying Palestinian flags, a significant change in rules by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). After her performance, an attempt to storm the stage took place, though fortunately, no one was injured.

Eurovision continues to be a platform for not just music, but also for cultural expression amidst social and political issues. It brings together people and stories, reminding us that art and music can be deeply intertwined with our world today.

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