Canada is gearing up for its first appearance at the Eurovision Song Contest with high hopes of making a big impact. The country is faced with the decision of whether to follow in the footsteps of Céline Dion’s 1988 success with a heartfelt ballad or to embrace the unconventional spirit of Eurovision, as seen in Greece’s recent performance where Akylas dressed as a giant orange cat in a video game-themed act.
The search is on for the Canadian artist who will take the Eurovision stage by storm, and the application process is now open for aspiring performers. While the competition is open to all, CBC/Radio-Canada is seeking seasoned performers with a strong track record in the industry.
Among the early contenders are Rêve, a Montreal native who clinched the 2023 Juno Award for Dance Recording of the Year, Talk, who impressed at the previous Canada Day concert and won the 2024 Juno for breakthrough artist, and bbno$, a two-time Fan Choice Juno winner in 2025 and 2026.
Prospective Eurovision contestants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents aged 18 or above by May 1, 2027, with the ability to travel internationally and pass background checks. The application process includes submitting two videos showcasing a live performance and expressing passion for Eurovision.
The selection process is underway, and the online portal will close on September 9 to allow CBC/Radio-Canada to shortlist finalists. The head of delegation, Jennifer Dettman, emphasized the importance of selecting artists with a strong digital presence, stage experience, vocal prowess, and a substantial European fanbase.
The chosen artist will play a crucial role in shaping the final song for Eurovision, with the assistance of established songwriters. From song creation to music video production, the journey to the Eurovision Grand Final in May is packed with intensive preparations. While artists will be compensated for their efforts, the true prize lies in the unparalleled exposure offered by Eurovision, likened to having a larger audience than the Super Bowl halftime show.
