2000 and Whatever – Romania

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.

Romania

Anita Reviews Dennis’ 21st Century Favourite

Paula Seling & Ovi – Playing With Fire | 3rd place, 162 points (Final)

Playing With Fire is one of the quintessential Romanian Eurovision entries. It was loved by many at the time, but even after a decade, it still remains as a favourite among fans. It’s still currently the highest placed Romanian entry, alongside Let Me Try (2005), both finishing in 3rd place in the final. Despite that, I’m not completely won over by this song.

I do remember liking Playing With Fire at the time, but looking back at it now, I just don’t find myself enjoying it as much.  While I’m not the biggest fan, I can still recognise why it’s a favourite among the community. The performance was very strong, both vocally and visually. The piano was a memorable prop, while the pyro sealed the deal on the performance.

Joshua Reviews Brandon’s 21st Century Favourite

Luminița Anghel and Sistem – Let Me Try | 3rd place, 158 points (Final)

Putting that questionable outfit to the side, this song is perfectly symbolic of Romania’s approach to the contest in the 2000s. It’s fun, distinctly Romanian, but a little cringy. As much as I enjoy an upbeat and jovial song at Eurovision, this one doesn’t do it for me, unfortunately. It is fairly enjoyable for the three minutes on stage, but it isn’t cohesive and catchy enough that I would vote for it. Third place is a little high in my opinion, but the novelty nature of the song must have attracted enough votes!

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 Romania below: