2000 and Whatever – Israel

We may not get to see our 2020 favourites take to the stage, but that doesn’t mean we can’t reminisce on our Eurovision favourites. This series is aimed to discover the team’s favourite entries from the 21st century, from 2001 to 2019.

In collaboration with ESCDaily, we will be reviewing some of their 21st Century favourites, while over on their site, you will find their reviews of our favourites!

Below our reviews, you will find a poll where you can vote for your favourite Eurovision entry from the 21st Century.

Israel

Anita Reviews Dennis’ 21st Century Favourite

Shiri Maimon – HaSheket SheNish’ar | 4th place, 154 points (Final)

Despite being one of Israel’s best results in recent years, I’ve never really felt a super strong connection with this song. The nation does ballads well at Eurovision, and even though I prefer some of the other choices, I can recognise why this did well at the contest, and why other people may choose this as their favourite entry from Israel in the 21st Century. Shiri has a beautiful voice which matches well with this powerful ballad. The song has a nice melody, and I especially like the delicate intro and first verse. In terms of the stage performance, it’s so amazingly slick. The camera work is perfect, and considering some of the costume disasters of 2005, Israel managed to keep things classy. Overall, a good choice.

Joshua Reviews Brandon’s 21st Century Favourite

Shiri Maimon – HaSheket SheNish’ar | 4th place, 154 points (Final)

I’m noticing a trend with Brandon’s favourites – female soloists! This song seamlessly infuses Israeli ethnic instrumental into a pop ballad. Personally I think the chorus is really strong, and carries the song. It also definitely has a real sing-along quality, which likely helped it achieve such a good placing at Eurovision. Vocals were strong, too, and Shiri Maimon really held her own on stage. Bravo, Israel.

What does the ESCDaily team think of our 21st Century favourites? Make sure to head over to escdaily.com to find out!

Vote for your favourite entry from Israel below: