As any ESC fan knows, there are mediocre songs which suddenly shine on stage, just as there are favourites that don’t get a favourable treatment. So let’s find out how things are coming across on stage in Kyiv!

See the bottom of this post to find out how the total scores are calculated, as well as other detailed explanations.

7. Finland
Norma John – Blackbird

Total score for Finland: 30.0 (out of 40)

It’s already been a very good song, getting the best possible treatment.

8. Azerbaijan
Dihaj – Skeletons

Total score for Azerbaijan: 16.5 (out of 40)

I can’t really tell with the show here. Even if it is art, I’m not sure whether it’s good in that.

9. Portugal
Salvador Sobral – Amor Pelos Dois

Total verdict for Portugal: 3.0 (out of 8)

Obviously the verdict here is not comparable to the rest. But one can already see that they are doing a nice job with the stage concept, but not getting the max out of it.

Winning these three: Finland

Making an already amazing song to an absolute masterpiece, this is Finland 2017 for you.

Explanations

What the categories mean

Concept: Meaning the idea behind what the performers are actually doing on stage, ignoring how well their performance is executed.

Look: Hairdo, clothes, but also attractiveness or likability play a role here.

Stage: Use of backdrop, lights and colours.

Camera: The camerawork, judging by the official snippets.

Performance: How well the concept is executed. Movements, facial expressions, finding cameras.

Vocals: Well, how well can the entrant actually sing?

What the stars mean

1 stars – Counterproductive, doesn’t do the song any favours
2 stars – Mediocre, doesn’t help nor ruin the song
3 stars – Decent, supports the song well enough.
4 stars – Literally outstanding, unique in the context of this year

How the total score is calculated

1 star = 0 points
2 stars = 1 point
3 stars = 2 points
4 stars = 4 points

For the total score, “Vocals” is weighted x5, “Performance” x3, the other four categories x0.5.