Dreaming of Representing Canada at Eurovision? Former Contestants Share Advice

Canada has never been on the world's biggest song stage before.

Eurovision is like the Olympics for songs, and Canada will join in 2027.

It's too soon to know how Canada will choose its act, but preparing is key.

CBC News asked four Canadians who were in Eurovision for advice.

Over 130 million people watched the last Eurovision, and it has 4 million TikTok followers.

Eurovision fans watch past contests and know the songs and performers. They also host parties and dress up.

Years after Annie Cotton finished third for Switzerland, fans still ask for her photos.

But Cotton didn't know how devoted fans were because Eurovision wasn't on TV in Canada then.

When the internet came, Cotton saw that many countries had Eurovision websites.

Vancouver-born Rykka loves the Eurovision community and finds it warm and fun.

Rykka said the workload for Eurovision was overwhelming and like a half-year project.

There was a selection process, planning, and showcases before the contest.

Rykka had unique experiences but also needed time to recover from the energy spent.

Gary Lux was in six Eurovision contests, starting in 1983 with the Austrian group Westend.

Lux says promotion is hard but being disciplined is important for success.

Showcases and media performances help win over voters.

The 2027 performer will represent Canada to the world, which is a big responsibility.

Lux thinks Canadians are liked by Europeans.

Performers can win over the crew and audience by learning about the host country.

Sherisse Laurence suggests reading about the country and learning a few words.

Laurence played Norwegian music to warm up the crew.

Former contestants think Canada should be authentic and not over-the-top.

Lux says being authentic and emotional is what people want.

This worked for Cotton in 1993.

Cotton sang a simple song and people liked it.

Laurence advises against behaving like a diva.

The performer should show appreciation for being at Eurovision.

Despite the exposure, a great performance doesn't guarantee a dream job.

Lux says Eurovision started his musical career and got him in the newspapers.

But Cotton doesn't think the exposure helped her much.

Cotton felt alone after Eurovision and decided to come back home.

Rykka doesn't regret Eurovision but doesn't like being associated with it now.

Some venues wouldn't book Rykka after she took part in Eurovision.

Rykka chose between going mainstream and staying cool, but didn't get mainstream benefits.

Rykka now focuses on her folk duo project and plays smaller venues.

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