So Who Should Represent Sweden?

If you've been reading my Melodifestivalen recaps, then you know tomorrow is the fateful conclusion of Sweden's Eurovision selection process.

If you're just joining us, the ongoing Melodifestivalen ("The Melody Festival") has been taking place in Sweden for the last five weeks. Now, most other European countries have their own national selection for Eurovision, but the reason I've been covering Sweden is because it's just so good. From the level of production, to the talent of the performers, the Swedes take it all very, very seriously. And there's a chance that us Americans could be hearing from one of the finalists in the future: though we don't necessarily realize it, Swedish musicians and producers are all over our American pop charts.

It's a strong year for Sweden, and the final reflects this. It's going to be a very close race. Nearly every entry could go to Eurovision and be successful (except for Linus Svenning's "Bröder," I just will never be okay with that). Now, traditionally, a lower placement in the line-up produces a victory. Going eight, ninth, or tenth is the strongest position to be in. But there's no obvious winner this year.

1. "Natural," Anton Ewald

Pros: Anton came in fourth place in the final last year, and he has a strong fanbase. It's a young, relevant song. Love his back-up dancer.
Cons: "Natural" just isn't as good as his previous entry. And going first, while it gives him the opportunity to set the tone for the night, isn't a strong position for the win.

2. "Songbird," Ellen Benediktson

Pros: The only ballad. Ellen has an interesting back story.
Cons: It's a quiet, pretty song that will be dwarfed by the competition.

3. "Blame It On The Disco," Alcazar

Pros: Alcazar are Melodifestivalen staples, with international fame. They are seasoned pop professionals, doing some of their best work.
Cons: If they actually win, and this song does not do well at Eurovision, it might be over for Alcazar. No one wants to see that happen.

4. "Yes We Can," Oscar Zia

Pros: He's a newcomer, this song is approachable and unoffensive.
Cons: I'm just kind of underwhelmed. He may need a few more years before he's ready for Eurovision.

5. "Bröder," Linus Svenning

Pros: Linus is an outsider. There is nothing else like "Bröder" in the line-up.
Cons: I just don't see him at Eurovision.

6. "Survivor," Helena Paparizou

Pros: This lady won Eurovision.
Cons: None?

7. "To The End," YOHIO

Pros: YOHIO came in second place last year. He has a strong and young fanbase, and there is nothing else like it in the final.
Cons: He appeals to a very specific audience. Is YOHIO still relevant?

8. "Undo," Sanna Nielsen

Pros: This is THE power ballad of the show. It's a fabulous song, Sanna has never looked or sounded better. After seven tries to represent Sweden, I think this is her year.
Cons: None.

9. "Efter solsken," Panetoz

Pros: Fun, high-energy performance. Ninth is a strong position.
Cons: "Efter solsken" is good song, but not a star-making song.

10. "Busy Doin' Nothin'," Ace Wilder

Pros: Definitely the break-out hit from this year's Melodifestivalen line-up.
Cons: Will older audiences be able to take this song seriously?

In the end, it's impossible to predict who will have the honor of flying the flag for Sweden in Copenhagen. It looks like Sanna Nielsen has the strongest odds this year, but Helena Paparizou and Ace Wilder will put up a good fight. And there's always a chance that a dark horse will take the prize.

Another bit of entertainment to look forward to tomorrow: SVT just announced former Eurovision contestants, Marie Bergman, Charlotte Perrelli, Malena Ernman, and Robin Stjernberg, will appear together to perform an ABBA medley to celebrate ABBA's 40th anniversary of Eurovision victory. Very exciting!