Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final: 1974, 7 April 2024, BBC Four

BBC Four offer up a real treat with a chance to revisit the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final in its entirety. The episode, airing on Sunday 7 April, commemorates the 50th anniversary of ABBA’s groundbreaking victory with their song “Waterloo.”

A Historic Night in Brighton

On April 6, 1974, the 19th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest took place at The Dome in Brighton, United Kingdom. The contest, hosted by Katie Boyle, marked a significant turning point in the history of pop music, as it served as the launching pad for one of the most successful acts of all time: ABBA.

The United Kingdom stepped in to host the contest for the fifth time, as Luxembourg, the previous year’s winner, declined due to financial constraints. Seventeen countries participated, including Greece, which made its debut. France, unfortunately, had to withdraw due to the death of President Georges Pompidou, with the state funeral taking place on the same day as the contest.

ABBA, representing Sweden, took home the top prize with their song “Waterloo.” This victory marked Sweden’s first-ever win at the contest. “Waterloo” went on to become a massive international hit, topping charts across Europe and even reaching No. 6 in the US. This success set the stage for ABBA’s legendary career, as they went on to become one of the best-selling acts in pop music history.

The Competition

The 1974 contest saw a change in the voting system. Each country had a jury of ten members, and each member awarded one point to their favorite song, excluding their own country’s entry. This system was a last-minute change, as the original plan for a more complex voting process was deemed too time-consuming during rehearsals.

The interval act for the evening was a pre-recorded video montage featuring the Wombles, a novelty pop band based on the children’s characters of the same name.

The Entries

Some notable entries included Italy’s Gigliola Cinquetti, who had won the contest in 1964, returning to finish second with the controversial song “Si.” The United Kingdom was represented by Australian pop singer Olivia Newton-John, who performed “Long Live Love,” a song chosen by a public postal vote, despite her preference for a different ballad.

Norway sent Anne-Karine Strøm, who had represented the country the previous year, along with the Bendik Singers, performing “The First Day of Love.” Another notable entry was Portugal’s “E Depois do Adeus,” which was reportedly used as a signal by rebel soldiers to begin a coup against the Estado Novo regime.

The Impact of ABBA’s Victory

ABBA’s victory at the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest was a pivotal moment in the group’s career. Their performance of “Waterloo” in their signature glamorous outfits and glittery makeup captivated the audience inside The Dome. The song’s catchy lyrics and bouncy hooks made it an instant classic, and it soon climbed the charts across Europe.

This win was a turning point for ABBA, as they embarked on their journey to conquer the world. “Waterloo” was voted the best Eurovision Song Contest song ever at the 50-year anniversary show in 2005, and ABBA has rightfully earned their place as one of the competition’s most iconic acts.

The 1974 Eurovision Song Contest in Brighton was a historic event, not only for the introduction of a new voting system but also for being the platform from which ABBA launched their global career. The contest showcased a diverse range of talent, with returning artists and newcomers alike, and it remains a memorable edition in the competition’s history.

Eurovision Song Contest Grand Final: 1974 airs on BBC Four at 8:10 pm on Sunday, 7 April 2024.