All the glitz, glamour, and bonkers energy of Eurovision is back for another year, with Perth band Voyager performing their progressive pop metal track Promise to represent Australia.
Mediaweek spoke to Emily Griggs, Head of Entertainment at SBS and Head of Delegation for Australia at the Eurovision Song Contest about bringing the contest to life down under.
Emily Griggs
What was it about Voyager that made them the right choice to represent Australia at Eurovision?
“There are so many reasons why Voyager are the right choice to represent Australia at Eurovision. Firstly, the song Promise has everything you could want in a Eurovision banger, it has an intriguing start, catchy lyrics, an amazing ‘80s vibe and the best guitar solo of the competition. The band, particularly lead singer Danny (Estrin) has a long love of the contest, watching it yearly from way back. They have had a determination and drive to get onto the stage of the world’s biggest music contest since it was announced Australia was competing and that hard work and dedication paid off.
“Last year’s entry for Eurovision – Australia Decides showcased how professional they are with consistent performances time and time again and with them winning the public vote, we thought this was a perfect opportunity to give audiences what they asked for. I am lucky to be with them in Liverpool and watching them at every media opportunity and interaction with all the other artists is pure joy. They have embraced everything to do with Eurovision and the people, from interviews in German to dance remixes, covering other artists songs to posing with fans and even conga lines, they are getting involved in it all. They are so well received by everyone whether it be the media, the artists or the fans, everyone is happier for meeting them. Voyager are Eurovision through and through!”
Voyager is the first band to represent Australia in the Eurovision Song Contest. For SBS, what is involved with sending a band as opposed to a solo artist?
“We are so excited to have a band represent us this year. Australia has so many iconic and influential bands that have found success locally and internationally, it was time to show Eurovision what Aussie bands can do. For SBS it isn’t that different to have a band, perhaps only a little harder to wrangle when leaving the venue! It can be difficult to drag them away from fans but that’s also what we love about them, so we’re not complaining.
“They all have such a close friendship it’s wonderful to see how they support each other. Creatively our job with partners Blink is to help translate their music and vision onto stage and television and the collaboration has been great fun. I mean who wouldn’t love to get a 1988 car up on stage and bring to life a modern ‘80s vibe complete with snazzy suits, a keytar and wind machine.”
Voyager has gained a significant following in Australia and internationally. How important is it for SBS to showcase Australian artists on a global stage like Eurovision?
“Our participation in Eurovision is all about showcasing Australian artists on a global stage. We are always exploring ways to reflect and give voice to modern multicultural Australia, and what better way than through song. The opportunities and possibilities are endless once you have been on that stage in front of audiences of over 160m. My favourite story is 2022 Eurovision entry Rosa Linn from Armenia. On Grand Final night her song Snap came in 20th, but she has gone to be an absolute streaming sensation around the world. So regardless of if we win or not, I wish Voyager all the success in the world.”
When Australia first joined Eurovision, we weren’t necessarily taken very seriously. A few years down the line, how does Australia fit into the Eurovision world in 2023?
“I’d argue that Australia has been taken seriously from the get-go. When we were invited to perform as an interval act in 2014, we sent Jessica Mauboy, who impressed everyone so much we were invited to participate. Our first year of competing was Guy Sebastian in 2015 who ended up in the top 5 and then, of course Dami Im came a very close second in 2016, solidifying our reputation as ones to watch. We are known for bringing great artists and a power to the competition. Honestly, I think Europe has a great respect for us and of course a healthy rivalry.”
What can viewers expect from Voyager and SBS’s Eurovision broadcast this year?
“SBS first started broadcasting Eurovision in 1983, so this year we are celebrating 40 years of bringing the greatest song contest into Australian homes. So, we are leaning into the ‘80s with our great synth-metal band Voyager who will take to the stage with amazing energy, stage presence and one huge prop. Viewers will fall in love with them, and the song Promise will be an ear worm for a long time to come. Myf Warhurst and Joel Creasey bring their music knowledge and comedic timing to commentating and hosting along with fun backstage interviews. There are so many brilliant acts this year it will be hard to pick your favourite. Hope you all enjoy the three spectacular shows that make up Eurovision!”
See Also: SBS names Oscar winner Catherine Martin as Australia’s spokesperson for the 2023 Eurovision
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Top Image: Voyager