As Eurovision 2025 approaches, Belgium is embarking on a crucial journey to select its representative for the prestigious competition. With the first preliminary round of ‘Eurosong’ kicking off this weekend, Belgium’s search for the next Eurovision star is well underway.
Flanders, represented by VRT, will take the lead in organizing the selection process this year, following the alternating structure between Flemish and Walloon broadcasters since 2021.
The Selection Process: ‘Eurosong’ Preselection
The road to the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel runs through ‘Eurosong,’ where Belgium’s next contender will be chosen.
This year, four candidates will present themselves in the first preliminary round on 18 January, with another four showcasing their songs the following Saturday on 25 January.
The culmination of the selection process will occur on 1 February during a live broadcast where both the public and a professional jury will decide which artist will represent Belgium.
Short snippets of the first four songs were shared on social media by VRT, and next week, the songs from the second round will be revealed.
The full versions of all eight entries will be made available after the second round. Both preliminary rounds and the final selection will be broadcast live on VRT 1 and streamed on VRT MAX.
Belgium’s Linguistic Divide
Belgium, with its distinct linguistic regions of Flanders and Wallonia, has a unique approach to Eurovision. Each region’s broadcaster, VRT for Flanders and RTBF for Wallonia, is a full member of the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
However, only one entry per year can represent Belgium. Since 2021, Flanders has managed the process in odd years, with Wallonia responsible in even years. This year, VRT will be in charge.
Despite the regionally governed selection process, Belgium’s entry this year will be in either French or English. No Dutch-speaking songs made it through the selection stages.
First Preliminary Round: 18 January
The first group of candidates for Eurosong 2025 will debut their songs this weekend, revealing a diverse range of musical styles and themes.
Grace – Pull up
Grace (22), the winner of ‘The Voice of Flanders’ in 2021, will present “Pull up.” The upbeat song carries a positive message about standing up for oneself. It also features phrases in Lingala, a tribute to Grace’s Congolese heritage. “Pull up” symbolizes empowerment and resilience.
Lenn – Air Balloon
Lenn (25), making his debut single with “Air Balloon,” uses the song to explore themes of mental health. Lenn describes it as a reflection on the challenges and beauty of life, encouraging listeners to embrace optimism.
Le Manou – Fille à Papa
Le Manou (29), a professional DJ, will perform “Fille à papa,” an energetic pop track inspired by 1990s house music. The song humorously addresses “nepo babies” but maintains respect for their achievements.
LEEZ – Perfectly Imperfect
LEEZ (31) presents “Perfectly Imperfect,” a modern anthem about relationship dynamics. Her song celebrates how individuals complement one another despite imperfections.
Second Preliminary Round: 25 January
The second group of candidates will showcase their entries the following week.
Jelle van Dael – Monster
Jelle van Dael (34) explores themes of personal growth and confronting internal struggles in “Monster.” The song draws from Jelle’s personal experiences but is meant to resonate universally.
Mentissa – Désolée
Mentissa (24) offers “Désolée,” a song about self-confidence and embracing individuality. She views it as the start of a more pop-focused direction in her career.
Red Sebastian – Strobe Lights
Red Sebastian (25), known for his involvement in 1990s rave culture, presents “Strobe Lights.” The song captures the energy and unpredictability of club nights.
Stefanie Callebaut – Gloria
Stefanie Callebaut (37) brings “Gloria,” described as an adventurous and theatrical song akin to a modern “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Callebaut hopes to create a unique and memorable performance.
The Professional Jury and Public Decision
The selection of Belgium’s representative will be a joint effort between the Flemish public and an international expert jury during the final show on 1 February. The jury consists of prominent figures from both Belgium and abroad.
Gustaph, who represented Belgium in 2023 with “Because of You,” will be a jury member. He achieved a commendable seventh place. Emmelie de Forest, the 2013 Eurovision winner for Denmark with “Only Teardrops,” will also be part of the jury.
Other jury members include Bart Cannaerts, Flemish comedian and Song Contest enthusiast; Merol, a popular Dutch singer; and a range of music coordinators, delegation leaders, and journalists.
Predictions and Expectations
Belgium’s approach to Eurovision has consistently placed an emphasis on both artistic quality and public engagement.
Historically, Belgium has been successful in sending diverse and distinctive acts to the competition. With both familiar and emerging talent in this year’s selection, expectations are high that Belgium will again make a strong impression in Basel.
The choice of song and artist is crucial, as Eurovision often favors innovative and memorable performances. With the public and jury united in their decision-making process, Belgium is likely to present a compelling act in 2025.
As the first steps of Belgium’s ‘Eurosong’ unfold, audiences eagerly await the full release of the candidates’ songs and the live broadcast on 1 February. Whether it is a powerful anthem, an uplifting message, or a captivating performance, Belgium is poised to make its mark on the Eurovision stage in 2025.
