Welcome to our new series of posts!
The moment of truth has arrived, and all 37 competing songs for Eurovision 2025 have been revealed.
So we are ready for an extended review of them and a ranking of the songs.
Each post in the series will focus on 5-6 songs.
This 6th post will focus on 5 of the countries competing in semi-final 2: Armenia, Georgia, Greece, Israel, and Malta.
You can find the previous chapters here:
- Part 1: Azerbaijan, Croatia, Poland, Slovenia, Ukraine
- Part 2: Albania, Cyprus, Estonia, Portugal, San Marino
- Part 3: Belgium, Iceland, Norway, Sweden, and The Netherlands
- Part 4: Ireland, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Montenegro, Serbia
- Part 5: Australia, Austria, Czechia, Denmark, Finland
PSRG (real name: Pargev Vardanyan) is a 30-year-old Armenian singer-songwriter. He was born to Armenian parents and grew up in Russia.
He graduated with a Theater Arts & Acting degree from Volgograd State Institute of Theater and Cinema. PARG was the lead singer of Edge Chronicles, a band that toured in Ukraine, Armenia, Russia, and Georgia between 2017 and 2019.
In 2022, he moved back to Armenia and collaborated with various artists, including Brunette (Eurovision 2023).
In 2023, he released his debut EP “Theatre Session”.
In 2025, he won “Depi Evratesil 2025” (the Armenian selection for Eurovision 2025) with the song “Survivor”:
Allocation in Semi-Final
Armenia was allocated to perform in the 5th position in semi-final 2.
The country will perform after Latvia, and before Austria.
Initial Personal Ranking
30th overall, 14th in semi-final 2
Musical Review
- It is a pop-rock song.
- The song starts with synth sounds and pre-recorded vocals. The first verse is based on drums and bass, PARG sings it with a smoky voice and full of attitude. The first pre-chorus is faster, and it is also based on guitars. The first chorus is more powerful. It continues the rocky drums and bass line, as well as electronic elements. He lengthens some of the words and uniquely pronounces them. This part of the song is more rocky. The post-chorus relies on rich backing singing, as well rough vocals. At this point, the song becomes more of stadium-rock hymn.
- The second verse is faster. The production is more electronic. The singing becomes a bit more “aggressive”. He is supported by backing singing. The second pre-chorus brings a change, as the melody features more oriental elements, as well as violin playing. The atmosphere is more tensed.
- The second chorus is quite similar to the first one. The backing vocals play a major role. However, the second post-chorus is different. It starts slowly, mainly instrumentally. The melody is based on the Duduk (Armenian wind instrument) as well as string elements. PARG sings more softly and tenderly. The melody is more sparse. Towards the end, he sings a long note with some raspiness.
- The song ends with one last chorus, which is served in a different arrangement. This chorus is more epic and orchestral. It is structured in the shape of Q&A. The song ends with a more rocky chorus which is also based on synth and electronic elements.
- Overall, the overall package of the song isn’t bad, but it takes time until it becomes interesting. I found the oriental part, as well as the last chorus, as the most exciting parts here. Sometimes, it was a bit hard to understand the lyrics he sang. The genre of pop-rock is likable, but at the same time, it is hard to deliver with no much originality.
Poetry Analysis
The song conveys a message of determination and strength. The song emphasizes the importance of staying faithful to yourself and your identity. The narrator describes his point of view, designing his truth – “I am sick of the news/ ‘m sick of the lies they’ve told”.
The narrator addresses the negativity that often surrounds individuals facing challenges, highlighting the importance of maintaining a positive mindset- “I’m alive/ Try to look up, atop of a rock (Yeah)/
Climbig these heights”.
He declares himself as a survivor, who won’t give up. The song mentions the ongoing fight it took him to be a fighter. The pain he has has designed his personality and made his stronger – “I bled a lot, more than you thought/ But I didn’t fade away”.
The song encapsulates the urgency and determination to thrive – “stay aliver, do or die in my prime”.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 2
Among the countries that usually vote for Armenia, 5 of them will vote in semi-final 2: Georgia, France, Greece, Czechia, Israel
Betting Odds
The song was selected as the Armenian entry for Eurovision 2025 on February 16th.
In the first 6 days, Armenia was ranked 19th- 24th by the bookies.
Since February 22nd, Armenia has been ranked 28th – 34th by the bookies, 32 on average.
Early Prediction
Armenia might struggle this year. They are allocated to the more competitive semi-final. Their voting allies are mainly Georgia, Israel, and France (and maybe Greece as well),
Their running order isn’t that great, having Austria right after.
Some people find the performance too shouty. I also think that as rock song, it might be blown by Lithuania.
Prediction: Qualification is possoble, but not likely. If Armenia qualifies, the country will end in the bottom 5 in the final. At the moment, I see this as most likely to stay in the semi-final
Mariam Shengelia – Freedom
Mariam Shengelia is a 22-year-old Georgian singer.
During her childhood, she developed an interest in singing and performing.
Mariam studies vocal performance and music theory at the Tbilisi State Conservatoire.
She rose to prominence in 2018, when she was a semi-finalist in “X-Factor Georgia”
In 2020, she competed in “Georgian Idol” (which was used as the artist selection for Eurovision 2020) and finished in the 6th place. She was meant to be a backing vocalists for Tornike (Georgia Eurovision 2020).
In 2021, she reached the semi-final of “The Voice of Georgia”.
In 2025, she finished in the 2nd place in the Georgian “Dancing With The Stars”.
In March 2025, she was announced as Georgia‘s choice for Eurovision 2025 (as part of internal selection).
She will perform the song “Freedom”:
Allocation in Semi-Final 2
Georgia was allocated to perform in the 10th position in semi-final 2
They will perform after Malta, and before France (automatic qualifier)
Initial Personal Ranking
34th overall, 16th in semi-final 2
Musical Review
- It is a power ballad with oriental and jazz elements.
- The song starts with fragmented orchestral and choir singing. Thereafter, Mariam sings with an angelic voice. The melody is based on piano playing. Shortly after, we get a rich choir singing with multiple layers and a wide range of vocals (from very low to high). It continues to affect to sample resonating voice and breathes, while Mariam sings in a mid-high tone of voice. As the song progresses, more instruments are added (for example, cello and violin). The first pre-chorus relies on melody that builds gradually, more elements and layers are added, like percussions. The singing is more dynamic, as the atmosphere gets more intense. The first chorus opens with powerful singing. The melody relies of fuller orchestration, as well some soft electronic elements. Mariam sings with longer notes, and more velvet voice singing. The backing vocals are back as well. This part is more anthemic.
- Thereafter, the song takes a completely different direction. The production is more laid-back, and Mariam sings more softly. The genre is more jazz-oriented with piano and wind instruments. Furthermore, she sings in English. The rate is slower. It continues to the rich and more powerful part, the second chorus. The orchestra is back, but sadly, the lyrics are more basic and clichéd. The song ends with a dramatic note, massive orchestra, and surprisingly stops.
- Overall, the song was hard to digest. The introduction lets us into dramatic ethnic vibes. However, the flow of the song is too heavy. My main problem is still that the song sounds like an attempt to glue two different songs together. Nevertheless, the song isn’t competitive enough.
Poetry Analysis
The song discusses topics like liberty and one’s connection to his/her homeland.
It celebrates the beauty of nature and the emotional complexity of fighting for one’s identity and homeland.
The song starts with an eternal description (“Years pass, time passed”), which indicates that the message of the song is timeless. It also suggests that the fight for freedom is an ongoing journey. The song features some nature elements like sky and mountains, it symbolized the strength, stability and simplicity. The song tries to connect the listener to the message by defining mutual language. It sets the ground for putting freedom as an element that should be given.
“The thirst for freedom, the homeland carried with its heart”
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 2
Among the countries that usually vote for Georgia, 5 of them will vote in semi-final 2: Armenia, Lithuania, Greece, Latvia, and Israel.
Betting Odds
Georgia selected its song for Eurovision 2025 on March 14th, 2025.
Georgia has been ranked 21st – 25th in the first 6 days.
Then, it was in the 25th – 26th place for a few days.
Since March 24th, it has been in the 29th – 34th places.
Early Prediction
Georgia didn’t qualify for the final between 2017 and 2023. Last year, they finally made it but ended in 21st place in the final. Sadly, this song is much weaker. While Mariam is a great vocalist, the song doesn’t stand out. Its fusion of genres doesn’t feel natural.
Prediction: Georgia won’t qualify for the final (and is a contender to be last in semi-final 2)
Klavdia – Asteromáta
Klavdia Papadopoulou is a 22-year-old Greek singer.
She rose to prominence in 2017 when she auditioned for the fifth season of “Greece’s Got Talent“.
In 2018, she competed in “The Voice Greece” and was mentored by the Eurovision 2005 winner, Helena Paparizou. Klavdia ended as a finalist.
In 2023, she applied for the Greek selection for Eurovision 2023 with the song “Holy Water“, and was among the top 7 songs.
In 2024, she released her debut EP “Klavdia”.
In January 2025, she won “Ethnikós Telikós 2025” (The Greek selection for Eurovision 2025). She will perform “Asteromáta“.
In 2025, she won the national selection “Ethnikos Telikos 2025” with the song “Asteromáta“
Allocation in Semi-Final
Greece was allocated to perform in the 7th position, after the UK (automatic qualifier) and before Lithuania.
Initial Personal Ranking
5th overall, 3rd in semi-final 2.
Musical Review
- It is a Balkan ballad performed in the Greek language.
- The song opens with Acapella singing, relying on Klavdia‘s pure voice. She sings with a warm voice. As the first verse progresses, the melody is gradually added. In the beginning, it is based on keyboard playing. The first pre-chorus is based on drums, synths, and keyboards playing. The flow is different, a bit faster, and more tense. The first chorus opens with an exciting flute playing, cutting the whole production, She continues with a beautiful long note while the melody is based on a constant simple beat.
- The second verse continues with the same beat (but with a lower volume). The melody is also based on synth elements. This verse is much shorter, we get the second pre-chorus right after with some backing vocals. The second chorus is impressive, it goes even “wilder” with even longer and higher notes. The melody is based on wind instruments and keyboard playing. The song ends with a cappella singing.
- This is an excellent ballad. Klavdia is a great vocalist with a proven record in live performance. I can feel the story in my bones, even though I don’t speak Greek. It has a cinematic quality, that can be delivered wisely with the staging. For some reason, I imagine a dark staging with motives of sky, water, and stars. This can be one of the best Greek entries even if it will be sent to Eurovision.
Poetry Analysis
The song explores themes of longing, love, and the deep connection between a mother and child. The stars are used as the main imagery in the song, and they repeat in different places and roles.
The song opens with “My star”, meaning that the narrator sees the addressee as a guide. In the first verse, the narrator approaches her mother and asks her not to be sad and in sorrow – “My sweet mother, do not weep/ Though they dress you in mourning black/ This faded, weary body of mine/
No flame can ever crack”. The mother shows mourning signs that are hinted in the way she dresses. The flames are an imagery to any danger or harm. The song emphasized the resilience and strength it takes to cope the reality.
In the second verse, the mourning reason becomes clearer, as it seems like the mother figure lost her house – “The swallows born of fire’s embrace/ No matter how far they roam/
Shall never forget the sacred earth/ That once they called their home”. The imagery of sacred earth emphasized the signifiant of the earth, not only materially, but also emotionally. The imagery of swallows and the earth, suggesting a connection to roots and the enduring nature of love and memory.
The repeated phrase “my little starry-eyed girl” encapsulates the narrator’s longing for a return to innocence and a reconnection with their beloved figure.
The imagery of forgotten wings evokes a sense of lost potential and the hope for rediscovery, suggesting that the narrator seeks to reclaim a part of themselves that has been lost over time.
The narrator describes life as a vessel searching for its home illustrates the journey of life as one filled with longing and the quest for belonging. The wind as a sail symbolizes the forces that guide us, while the repeated calls for the beloved to return reinforce the theme of searching for connection amidst life’s challenges.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 2
Among the countries that usually vote for Greece, 4 of them will vote in semi-final 2: Armenia, Serbia, Montenegro, Malta
Betting Odds
Greece chose its Eurovision 2025 song on January 30th, 2025.
During the first 9 days, Greece was ranked 9th – 13th by the bookies.
Then, it was in the 16th – 18th places.
Between February 12th and March 5th, Greece was ranked 19th – 22nd by the bookies.
Since March 6th, Belgium was ranked 15th – 21st, 18th on average.
Early Prediction
Greece is very likely to qualify. Sonically, it is one of the strongest ballads and Ethnic songs we have this year. Klavdia is a professional vocalist. The staging in the national final wasn’t the perfect one, but I am sure they will elevate in Basel. The song might have an appeal by the jury, but also among the audience of some Balkan countries. However, it might be challenged by some other ballads competing this year (France, Israel, Switzerland and etc).
Prediction: Greece will qualify for the final. The final placement really depends on the staging here. If the staging is goof enough, then 8-14, otherwise 12-17.
Yuval Raphael – New Day Will Rise
Yuval Raphael is a 24-year-old Israeli singer.
On October 7th, 2023, Yuval attended the “Nova” music festival. Hamas militants attacked the festival. She hid in a shelter with around 50 people, while sustaining shrapnel injuries from grenades thrown into the shelter. Yuval was one of the 11 people who survived this massacre.
She gave evidence and a speech to the UN Human Rights Committee.
In November 2024, she auditioned “The Rising Star for Eurovision 2025”.
In February 2025, she won the 11th season of “Hakochav Haba”, and, therefore, was selected to represent Israel in Eurovision 2025.
Her song for Eurovision 2025 – “New Day Will Rise” was internally selected
Allocation in Semi-Final
Israel was allocated to perform in the 14th position after Luxembourg and before Germany (automatic qualifier).
Initial Personal Ranking
4th overall, 2nd in semi-final 2
Musical Review
- It is power ballad, with influences of Chanson.
- The song starts with the sound of drums and dramatic string elements. The first verse is based on slow piano playing. Yuval sings it in a low-mid tone of voice effortlessly. The rate is very specific, and the production is quite simple. The second half of the first verse builds gradually, and it is slightly faster. The first verse continues in the same line. However, we can hear more elements in the production. Yuval sings this part in a more angelic and softer voice. Towards the end, we get a beautiful vocal decorations.
- Right after the first chorus, we get the dramatic strings again. The second verse is performed in French. The production relies on keyboards and classic string elements, as well as slow and gentle beats. The French language adds some mystery and magic to the composition. The second chorus is in English, and it is performed more powerfully. Yuval brings more colors to her voice, while the melody is based on orchestral elements (cello, violin, and viola). We get to hear some raspiness from her. The chorus ends with a more crisp voice and vocal twirling.
- The bridge follows. It is based on simple keyboard playing and a Biblical quote. She sings this part in Hebrew. The production is simpler, and the emphasis is on her voice. The song continues to an additional chorus. Which starts with a big, long note. The last chorus is performed like a soft rock ballad with a raspier voice, and it ends in a more fragile way, gentle piano playing and soft singing.
- Overall, the song is written beautifully. I started to appreciate it more on the second and third times I’ve heard it. The lyrics are simple, yet effective. The transition between 3 languages (English, French, Hebrew) feels surprisingly smooth and natural. I can’t ignore the fact that the arrangement reminds me of Chansons. The composition isn’t the one you expect, but somehow it serves all the parts. The biggest advantage here is Yuval as a versatile vocalist.
Poetry Analysis
The song conveys a message of resilience and hope, even in the hardest times in life. It supports the idea that love endures even in the face of loss and separation, ultimately leading to the promise of a new day. The song starts with mentioning the pain of loss or farewell.
However, the narrator tries to be positive. She sees this loss as a temporal pain, but at the same time she wants to focus on the positive mark this person left on her. “And even if you say goodbye, you’ll never go away/ You are the rainbow in my sky, my colors in the grey/ My only wish upon a star, sunshine in the day”. The imagery shifts towards positive and uplifting like rainbow, colors and sunshine, which symbolize hope and renewal.
The song presents the journey from despair to optimism, suggesting that there is always the potential for healing and brighter days ahead.
The Hebrew part – “Many waters/ cannot extinguish love/ nor rivers cannot/ wash it away” declares the power of love as superior, and even stronger than nature. It symbolize the fact the hope and optimistic thinking can defeat the pain and sadness.
The song emphasizes the global pain, and at the same time the importance of staying united and support each other – “Everyone cries/ Don’t cry alone”.
“New day will rise” is a metaphor that encapsulates the essence of the song: no matter how dark the night may seem, dawn will inevitably break, bringing with it the promise of hope and renewal.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 2
Among the countries that usually vote for Israel, 5 of them will vote in semi-final 2: France, Australia, Finland, Czechia, and Armenia.
Betting Odds
Israel revealed its Eurovision 2025 entry on March 9th, 2025.
Between March 9th and March 18th, Israel was ranked 3rd-4th by the bookies.
Israel was stable in 4th place between March 19th and April 21st.
Since April 22nd, Israel has been 5th in the odds.
Early Prediction
Israel will qualify for the final. and might even do it from the top 3 in the semi-final.
The minority of ballads might help, as well as the great running order.
Yuval has proven she is a great vocalist, with the right text interpretation.
Prediction: 4-0 in the final.
Miriana Conte – Serving
Miriana Conte is a 24-year-old Maltese singer.
In 2017, she competed in the national selection for Eurovision (“MESC 2027”) and placed 16th with “Don’t Look Down.”
In 2018, she competed in the national selection with “Rocket” and ended up in 12th place.
The same year, she was part of the band 4th line, which competed in the first season of “X-Factor Malta” and qualified for the final. In 2019, she left the band and competed in the 2nd season of “X-Factor Malta”, and this time didn’t qualify for the final.
In 2019, she took part in recording the song “Roll the Dice” with other Maltese artists as a theme song for the pride parade.
Miriana competed in “MESC 2022″ with “Look What You Have Done” (6th place in the final) and in “MESC 2024” with “Venom” (9th place in the final).
In 2025, she won the Maltese selection for Eurovision 2025 – MESC 2025″.
She will perform “Serving” in Eurovision 2025 (originally the song was titled “Kant” which means singing in Maltese):
Allocation in Semi-Final
Malta was allocated to perform in the 9th position in semi-final 2, after Lithuania, and before Georgia.
Initial Personal Ranking
?? overall, ?? in semi-final 2.
Musical Review
- It is a modern pop song with some electronic and traditional elements.
- The song opens with clap effects, which are converted to beat. Miriana opens the song cheerfully and playfully. The first verse continues with singing in a thinner voice. The melody is based on keyboards and percussion. The use of whispered vocals and ambient sounds creates an atmosphere of intrigue. In the first pre-chorus, she sings more energetically. The melody features a rhythmic shift with added percussion and layered harmonies.
- The first chorus relies on keyboards and drums. From time to time, we hear synth elements. The singing is more theatrical and airy. It features some traditional elements.
- The second verse is even more rhythmic. She sings faster, and the synth and drums are more dominant. The second bridge is shorter, and she sings with more decoration and high notes. The second pre-chorus is more upbeat and easy to chant and sing along. It ends with repetition and special word phrasing. The second chorus is more sparse, and the emphasis is on the melody, which gives it a more urban vibe.
- The post-chorus (which takes the place of the bridge usually) is more laid-back. The melody is based on keyboard playing. She sings it softly, almost with falsetto. Later on, it transitions to the original direction of the song with long notes and growing beat. The last chorus is more of trap pop with clear hook and great vocals. The song ends with a whisper.
- Overall, Malta brings a song with a great empowering message. Miriana is a great vocalist and charismatic performer. The melody is dynamic and diverse, so you don’t get bored. The semi-oriental elements take it to another level. Overall, a good effort, which is mainly elevated by Miriana’s character and personality.
Poetry Analysis
The song explores themes like self-empowerment, individuality, and the joy of living.
The song opens with an invitation to enter the narrator’s inner world (“I’ve got a secret you should know/ Come a little close, I’ll whisper slow”). It can also be considered a call to embrace one’s true self. The first verse includes a kind of “instructions” that recommend to people how to behave – “People say, ‘Don’t be so loud’/ Watch the words comin’ out of your mouth/ … follow me now”. This part represents the society and its norms in an ironic way, where persons are requested to fit to specific patterns, instead of standing on their own.
Instead, the narrator prefers to focus on love and good energy. It is also a call to be united and accept other – “Only lovers, no enemies”. The word “serving” repeats along the chorus, and can be understood in several meanings: from showcasing one’s talents to embodying a strong, unapologetic femininity, or even showcasing a queer identity.
“Why should we let other people decide/ When we could be havin’ the time of our lives?/ Let down your walls, come and dance to my vibe” – The narrator invites other people to follow her steps, and not letting other decide on their lives. It is a wake up call to put our desires and character in the center, and ignore conforming society standards.
The impact of the allocation in semi-final 2
Among the countries that usually vote for Malta, 4 of them will vote in semi-final 2: Armenia, Australia, Ireland, and the UK.
Betting Odds
Malta selected its Eurovision 2025 entry on February 8th.
Malta spent 2 days in 15th place. Thereafter, Malta was in the 11th – 12th place for 4 days.
Between February 15th and February 24th, Malta went up to the 7th-8th place.
Between February 25th and March 13th, Malta has been in the 11th – 14th place.
Since March 14th, Malta has moved in the 11th – 12th place.
Early Prediction
Malta is most likely a qualifier. In contrast to recent years, I think Malta isn’t in danger. The known problem is that Malta usually struggles with public votes. However, I think the song itself is bold enough and for sure will be discussed by people.
As for the final, Malta sent a song which isn’t really jury-friendly, but on the other hand, when they quality they rely on jury votes.
Therefore, I am afraid the song might do a bit lower than expected.
Prediction: 10-16 in the final
In the next chapter, we will review the remaining 6 countries: The big 5 and the host country.
Eurovision 2025 will be held in Basel, Switzerland, on the 13th, 15th, and 17th of May 2025
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