Last-Minute Changes and Surprising Reactions: The Protocols of Israel’s Eurovision Song Selection Revealed

Context of the Selection Process

Recent disclosures from the selection committee for this year’s Israeli Eurovision entry have shed light on the deliberations surrounding the song “New Day Will Rise,” written by Karen Paz, which will represent Israel in the upcoming contest in Basel, Switzerland, this May. The insight comes from newly obtained protocols that reveal the committee’s reactions and decisions throughout the process, reflecting a mix of enthusiasm and skepticism.

According to these protocols, which were made public following a request under the Freedom of Information Act, members of the selection committee offered a range of feedback, with some labeling the song as “a bit monotonous,” while others suggested that incorporating French could be beneficial. Responses varied, with start member describing it as “very Eurovision” but ultimately “lacking something” to be competitive.

The Selection Controversy

The song selection has been mired in controversy, particularly due to a letter from creators that criticized the transparency and integrity of the process. The protocols not only document the current year’s selection but also delve into the previous year’s decision involving Eden Golan’s song “Hurricane.”

During the selection for “Hurricane,” the committee faced challenges; there was a tie between two leading songs that necessitated an additional decision-making phase. It was decided that instead of a simple vote, further collaboration with the creators of both songs would be required, leading to a formal amendment of the selection process.

Detailed Discussion on Reactions

The protocols also indicate the selection committee’s robust discussions regarding the viability of competing songs. During their evaluations, various entries received lukewarm responses, with comments like “suitable for a musical” and “too simplistic” echoed by panel members. Some songs were criticized as “outdated” or “generic,” while others received more targeted critiques, such as “not making it to the semifinals.”

The committee, comprised of seven members including music directors and representatives from the program “The Next Star for Eurovision,” conducted scores from 0 to 5 for each song. After the aggregation of points in an initial meeting, five songs were shortlisted for further consideration.

The Role of Yoval Rafael

Yoval Rafael, the singer selected to represent Israel, participated in the later stages of the selection, providing her insights after recording studio versions of the top candidates. Her emotional connection to “New Day Will Rise” was highlighted in the protocols, stating, “I cried when I heard it. It feels like a song I can break hearts with,” showcasing her belief in the song’s potential impact.

As noted in the protocols, Rafael’s perspective was regarded seriously by the committee. Her assertion that “this song gives me the ‘kick’ in the stomach” resonated with the members, ultimately favorably impacting the decision towards choosing her preferred song.

Final Decision-Making

In the concluding phase of the discussions, all committee members unanimously voted in favor of “New Day Will Rise,” celebrating its promise despite the ongoing debates surrounding its official title and lyrical content, which were in flux due to requirements from the European Broadcasting Union.

As the protocols indicate, while internal disputes regarding the selection process raised concerns about transparency, the final outcome appears to reflect a collective vision for Israel’s representation in this prestigious competition. The final decisions are evidenced by the distinct directions intended to enhance Israel’s chances at Eurovision.

Through this unfolding narrative, the intersection of artistic choice and committee dynamics presents a compelling picture of the complexities involved in selecting a representative song for international competition