Eurovision Song Contest 2012 Entry: Serbia - Zeljko Joksimovic - Nije Ljubav Stvar
Apr 24 2012 01:11 pm ET
Serbia will see if lightning can strike twice when it sends Zeljok Joksimovic and his song "Nije Ljubav Stvar" to the Eurovision Song Contest in Baku, Azerbaijan. Will he be able to top his previous second place finish, or will the country face an abrupt end in the semi-final?
Country: Serbia
Title: "Nije Ljubav Stvar" ("Love is Not an Object")
Artist: Zeljko Joksimovic
Semi-Final: Second, Position 1
Last year's entry/position: "Caroban" - Nina (14th Place)
Zeljko Joksimovic is no stranger to the Eurovision Song Contest, having represented Serbia and Montenegro in the country's debut appearance in 2004. Joksimovic made a strong impression, earning second place in that Contest. "Nije Ljubav Stvar" is similar to another successful Serbian entry - 2007's Contest winner "Molitva" – in that this ballad also uses a slow build to develop to a powerful climax. Take a listen:
I like that this song is opening the second semi-final because it sets the tone nicely for what will take place in the 17 performances that follow. This song has a seriousness demonstrating Serbia's desire to compete and to win. The quality of the song is also topnotch, another feature that will make the second semi-final extremely competitive this year. The only issue I have with the song is that the ending seems rather abrupt, as if the writer noticed to late that three minutes is not enough time. Although it feels like the song should have one more verse, the sudden stop does allow for the song to get stuck in your head, which does not hurt in a song contest.
This song should have no trouble advancing to the Final. Although it is the first song of the night, it should be memorable for viewers and the juries should reward the song's quality. Placement in the Final will be an important factor for Serbia. No one wants the 2-spot, but this song will be particularly harmed if it has to immediately follow United Kingdom. Frankly, if this song can avoid placement next to any of the Big Five or Azerbaijan, it should help set Serbia apart from the field.
I think Serbia has a chance at a Top 5 finish with this song, but it may require some luck along the way.
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Mike McComb – TVLatest.com
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