Stefan Raab’s Grand Return to the Eurovision Song Contest
On Friday, February 14th, 2023, the Eurovision Song Contest (ESC) will once again unite two beloved figures in a television studio in Hürth, near Cologne: Stefan Raab and the prestigious music competition.
Their relationship has been marked by moments of brilliance, with Raab’s involvement often resulting in memorable and successful German entries. From Guildo Horn’s "Guildo hat euch lieb" to Alf Igel’s "Wadde hadde dudde da?" and Max Mutzke’s "Can’t Wait Until Tonight," Raab has left an undeniable imprint on the ESC.
After a lengthy hiatus, Raab is now back at the helm, determined to lead Germany to victory once more. Tonight, the first of several shows will air on RTL and RTL+, kicking off the search for the German representative at the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel this May. The show’s title, "Chefsache ESC 2025," reflects Raab’s ambitious goal of bringing the coveted trophy back to Germany.
In a recent interview with RTL, Raab made his intentions clear: "I have no desire to come second. Second is always the first loser, unfortunately." Germany’s recent ESC performances have left much to be desired, with a string of disappointing results since 2015. The only exception was Michael Schulte’s fourth-place finish in 2018. Last year, Isaak managed a respectable twelfth place, but overall, Germany has been stuck in a rut of embarrassing defeats.
Raab’s return brings renewed hope of breaking this cycle of disappointment. Since Lena Meyer-Landrut’s victory in 2010, orchestrated under Raab’s guidance, he has been hailed as an ESC guru. ARD has joined forces with RTL, Raab’s new home network, to bring this grand comeback to life.
The show will feature a diverse field of 24 contestants, selected from over 3,200 applications. Some are virtual unknowns, while others have released albums or amassed significant followings online. They include solo artists, duos, and bands, united by their aspirations to make a name for themselves on the big stage.
Among the more recognizable names is Noah Levi, who won "The Voice Kids" at the age of 13. Singer Cloudy June is also gaining traction as a rising star in alternative pop. Feuerschwanz, on the other hand, stands out with their unique blend of medieval and rock music.
The first and second shows, airing on Friday and Saturday respectively, will showcase 12 acts each. The top performers will advance to the semifinals on February 22nd. The finale, scheduled for March 1st, will be broadcast on ARD, with Barbara Schöneberger hosting all three shows.
While the format may seem familiar, Raab remains confident in his ability to make a difference. In the preliminary rounds, he and his jury, consisting of Elton, singer Yvonne Catterfeld, and a guest juror (Max Mutzke for the first show), will have the sole authority to determine who advances. The audience will only have a say in the final.
Raab’s reputation is on the line in this venture. His legacy in the ESC began long before Lena’s victory in 2010. In 1998, he wrote the song "Guildo hat euch lieb" under the pseudonym Alf Igel, helping Guildo Horn make a mockery of the competition and show Europe that Germans have a sense of humor.
Two years later, Raab took to the stage himself with "Wadde hadde dudde da?," further solidifying Germany’s relaxed attitude towards the ESC. His performance at the 2000 preliminary round in Bremen, amidst the wailing of traditionalists, remains a legendary moment in German pop culture. Back then, he was dubbed a "Blödelbarde" (joking bard) or "Ulknudel" (clown). Today, he assumes the role of a wise elder statesman, tasked with restoring order to the ESC.
Raab has repeatedly stated that he has no intention of performing again. "I did that back then, and it was a lot of fun for me, but life is a process, and you have to see how things develop," he told RTL.
Barbara Schöneberger, the show’s host, leaves the door open for her own potential participation in the ESC. "Until now, I simply haven’t had the time to sing at the ESC," she said. "Now, we’ll wait and see how this year’s results pan out. Then, I’ll get in touch with Stefan Raab and beg him to write me a song that will pave the way to victory."
Even if Germany fails to triumph again this year, Raab’s involvement guarantees a captivating spectacle. The return of the "ESC Guru" has ignited excitement among fans, who eagerly anticipate the rebirth of German glory on the Eurovision stage.
