As the Eurovision Song Contest gears up for its 69th edition in Basel, Switzerland, anticipation builds not only for the upcoming performances but also for a reflection on the contest’s rich history. Since its inception in 1956, Eurovision has showcased a plethora of musical talents, with some performances leaving an indelible mark on audiences across Europe and beyond. With 1,826 songs from 51 countries having graced the Eurovision stage, only a select few have etched their names into the annals of history through record-breaking scores and unforgettable performances.
Salvador Sobral’s “Amar Pelos Dois”: A Record-Breaking Performance
In 2017, Portugal achieved its first-ever Eurovision victory with Salvador Sobral’s heartfelt rendition of “Amar Pelos Dois.” Composed by his sister, Luísa Sobral, the song captivated audiences with its minimalist staging and emotional depth. Sobral’s performance garnered a total of 758 points, securing 382 from the juries and 376 from the televote, making it the highest-scoring entry in Eurovision history at that time. The song’s success was attributed to its poignant lyrics and Sobral’s sincere delivery, which resonated deeply with viewers across the continent.
Other Notable High-Scoring Entries
Several other performances have come close to matching Sobral’s record. In 2022, Ukraine’s Kalush Orchestra won with “Stefania,” amassing 631 points, including a record-breaking 439 from the televote. Bulgaria’s Kristian Kostov secured 615 points in 2017 with “Beautiful Mess” while Sweden’s Loreen achieved 583 points in 2023 with “Tattoo.” These entries, among others, have demonstrated the evolving musical tastes of Eurovision audiences and the increasing competitiveness of the contest.
Reevaluating the Most Voted Performances
While raw point totals provide one perspective, analyzing performances based on the percentage of available points offers a more nuanced understanding. In this context, Luxembourg’s 1973 entry, “Tu Te Reconnaîtras” by Anne-Marie David, stands out. The song received 129 out of a possible 160 points, translating to 80.6% of the maximum, showcasing its widespread appeal during that era. Similarly, the UK’s 1976 entry, “Save Your Kisses for Me” by Brotherhood of Man, achieved 80.4% of the available points, highlighting the enduring popularity of these classic performances.
Understanding the Evolution of Eurovision’s Voting System
The Eurovision voting system has undergone numerous changes over the decades to enhance fairness and audience engagement. From its early days of jury-only voting to the introduction of televoting in 1997, and the current 50/50 split between jury and public votes, the system has continually evolved. Notably, in 2023, the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) introduced the “Rest of the World” vote, allowing viewers from non-participating countries to cast their votes online, reflecting Eurovision’s growing global reach. As of 2025, the EBU has confirmed that there will be no changes to the voting system, maintaining the current structure to ensure consistency and transparency in the contest’s outcomes.
Looking Ahead to Eurovision 2025 in Basel
As Basel prepares to host Eurovision 2025, fans eagerly anticipate which performances will capture the hearts of audiences and potentially set new records. With the contest’s rich history as a backdrop, the upcoming edition promises to deliver memorable moments and showcase the diverse musical talents of Europe and beyond.