FORMER BOYBAND SINGER Brendan Murray has been chosen as Ireland’s performer for the 2017 Eurovision Song Contest in Kyiv.
The announcement was made on tonight’s Late Late Show. Murray’s manager Louis Walsh has been given the task of finding a suitable song. RTÉ will accept songs for consideration until 16 January. Walsh asked the public to submit their songs, and said Murray is “perfect for Eurovision”.
“He has a distinctive voice and a look that I think will really appeal to audiences across Europe. I want to find the best song for Brendan to perform on that Eurovision stage. I’m going to use my own contacts in the business and I want to hear songs from Irish songwriters or songwriters abroad until I find the best song. I won’t rest until I do!”
Louis along with a panel appointed by RTÉ will select the song. The winning song will be performed by Brendan on The Late Late Show in early 2017.
Michael Kealy, RTÉ’s Executive Producer in charge of Eurovision said:
“Given Louis’ extensive experience in the music business and with Eurovision, we’re delighted that he’s on board with our Eurovision bid this year.
“In 2017, there will be 42 countries competing in Kyiv in what is the biggest music competition in the world. We want to find the strongest song that will showcase Brendan’s unique voice for a package I believe will really stand out in this ultra competitive contest”.
Brendan performed Johnny Logan’s Eurovision winning classic Hold Me Now live on The Late Late Show, saying his parents were big fans of Johnny Logan.
Brendan said:
“I’m honoured and exited to be representing Ireland in Kyiv in the biggest music competition in the world. I’m really looking forward to it.”
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