A survey has been launched by Eurovision which raises the prospect of politicising the song contest , an idea condemned as “unacceptable” by a music business executive, who said it was a “mockery of what Eurovision is all about.
Veteran music executive Neil Ferris told the JC: "The prospect of politicising the contest is absolutely and categorically unacceptable.
“It’s so wrong, but frankly, in the current climate, it’s going to carry on being like that.”
Ferris, who in his long career has worked with the likes of the Rolling Stones, David Bowie Madness, says that he believes Eurovision is not about “serious music”. “Eurovision is for me is not really about great music or long term artists, it’s just entertainment, fun for those that love it,” said Ferris. “Maybe the UK should make a move and walk away.”
The five-minute questionnaire was issued against the backdrop of political tension marring this year’s contets, with five nations boycotting the show in protest at Israel’s participation. Israel’s contestant Noam Bettan was runner-up with his song Michelle.
Questions in the survey include: “To what extent do you agree with the following statement: ‘Artists and performers should not be held responsible for the political decisions of their governments’?”
Another question reads: “In international events like Eurovision, which approach do you think is most appropriate?”, with possible answers including “Consider both artistic and political context equally.” and “Political context should play a larger role than the artists.” Other answers stress the separation of politics and music.
Fans of the song contest have written to the JC, expressing their thoughts on the survey.
One wrote: “The questions sound ridiculous but unfortunately, Eurovision [has already] become too political.”
And another wrote: “I think artists and musicians should stick to music and keep their political opinions to themselves.”
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