With Eurovision Song Contests and getting up
By RTL Boulevard·12 minutes ago·Edit: 4 minutes ago
© ANPRTL
Who will represent the Netherlands at the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Switzerland? Now that Joost Klein (26) has withdrawn his droppings, it is a race against the EBU clock to find a new entry. At ‘Eva’, selection committee members Cornald Maas (62) and Hila Noorzai (32) said on Monday evening that this could well be a piece of cake, given that surprisingly big names are still ‘secretly’ registering.
“Also people who are now shouting that they do not want to participate”
Cornald, whose statement ‘fuck the EBU‘ was declared TV Moment of the Year, was ‘surprised’ by the fact that quite a few registrations immediately came in after Joost thanked him for the second chance. “Also from people of name and fame, who may now say that they do not want to participate, but secretly register.” No, according to them, Joost’s elimination has not deterred other artists from taking on the Eurovision Song Contest adventure.
Cornald and Hila cannot name names yet, so Eva Jinek will do so. “Has Anouk been called yet?” asks the presenter. Where Cornald tries to avoid the question – “We don’t call the artists ourselves” – Hila says: “We would love to call her. We don’t feel too good about anything.”
Yet both Cornald and Hila indicate that they do not turn their noses up at a submission like Rob Kemps, who already shared an open application on Instagram. “I really liked Rob Kemps. (…) You see what he brings to the table during the European Championship.” According to her, Joost encourages more people to sign up. “‘Europe’ proves: anything is possible. So come with your song.”
Artists – or at least people with some stage experience – can register with the Eurovision Song Contest committee until November 22, 11:59 PM. Then the committee will listen blindly. “Then we’re really going to listen to the song.”
According to Cornald and Hila, the selection committee consists of chairman Twan van de Nieuwenhuijzen, Sander Lantinga, Jacqueline Govaert, Jaap Reesema and Carolien Borgers. The day after Joost announced that he no longer wanted to go for a Eurovision rematch, Sander announced that AVROTROS gave the ‘Europapa’ singer a second chance outside the committee. Now that he does not take advantage of it, the committee had to take action at the last minute. “Anyone who thinks: I want to go to the Eurovision Song Contest can submit something,” Sander said on radio station JOE about the open registration.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 will take place from May 13 in Switzerland, the home country of the previous winner: Nemo.
Baby Lasagna, who came second at the Eurovision Song Contest in Malmö this year, Isaak from Germany and the Norwegian entry Gòòte can talk to Joost about the great mental impact that the music festival can have on the participants:
Eurovision 2025: The Great Dutch Hunt for Joost’s Replacement
Ah, Eurovision – the annual talent competition that makes “X Factor” look like a Sunday school choir and transforms the entire continent into a riot of sequins and questionable dance moves. Now, the Netherlands is on the clock seeking its next golden entry for Eurovision 2025, and it seems the hunt for Joost Klein’s replacement is heating up! In a twist that rings like a melodious fart in the middle of a ballad, Joost has “withdrawn his droppings” – a rather poetic way of saying he’s out! So, step right up, who’s joining this circus of vocal acrobatics in Switzerland next year?
“Also people who are now shouting that they do not want to participate”
Cornald Maas and Hila Noorzai, the selection committee duo, graced the show “Eva” like unstable fireworks at a birthday party. Cornald’s cheeky sentiment of “fuck the EBU” (a touch of class, I must say) was even crowned as the TV Moment of the Year! What a title to add to his CV. Now, apparently, their phones have started buzzing from artists who, with all the subtlety of a sledgehammer, insist they are NOT interested in participating. They’re secretly registering, the rascals! What can I say, it’s like trying to make a silent fart while you’re in an elevator – good luck with that!
As the representatives sift through what could be a veritable buffet of talent, there’s one eye-catching name floating around: Anouk. When the host Eva asked if she’s been rung up yet, Cornald deflected like a seasoned politician, while Hila’s enthusiasm was palpable – “We would love to call her! But, yeah, we don’t feel too good about anything.” Nothing says reassurance like non-commitment, folks!
But don’t think they’re just twiddling their thumbs. Joost’s decision has apparently opened the floodgates for eager artists – even Rob Kemps has opened his Instagram for submissions! There’s something about the invitation that feels a bit like an all-you-can-eat buffet. Joost might have “thanked” the festival for the second chance, but it seems everyone else is just beaming in at the opportunity. Cornald and Hila promise to listen to submissions until November 22nd. Ah yes, the suspense! It’s like waiting for the next season of your favourite series – you know it’ll be absurd, but you can’t help but be excited for the chaos!
Now, for the uninitiated, Eurovision is not just about savouring the odd ballad or eye-popping costume. It’s a mental marathon, ladies and gentlemen! We’re talking about stress, disappointment, and more glitter than you’d find in most kids’ birthday parties. Just ask the likes of Baby Lasagna, who finished second in Malmö – their heads must still be spinning! Take heed, Joost, because once you’re in the Eurovision discipleship, it’s like trying to dance with a sea of frenetic energy while balancing a tray of shots!
The show must go on, and the Netherlands has an open invitation to all who wish to partake in this melodious madness. Where will it lead? Who’s got the next spark of chaos to deliver a hit? Oh, the drama! The nerves! The glitter! As the clock ticks down to the auditions, one thing is abundantly clear: in the world of Eurovision, anything can happen. So grab your flags, ready your earplugs, and prepare for a wild ride to Switzerland!
Mark your calendars: May 13, 2025, is a date that will be filled with questionable choices and dramatic flair. Keep your ears peeled until then, as we delve deeper into this most beloved of musical catastrophes!
With anticipation building for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 in Switzerland, the Netherlands is in a scramble to secure a new representative following Joost Klein’s (26) unexpected withdrawal. This recent development has put the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) on alert as the stakes rise to unveil a suitable candidate to take the stage. During Monday night’s episode of ‘Eva’, selection committee members Cornald Maas (62) and Hila Noorzai (32) expressed their optimism about the situation, revealing that a number of surprisingly prominent artists are still ‘secretly’ expressing their interest in taking part.
“Also people who are now shouting that they do not want to participate”
Cornald Maas, whose candid remark ‘fuck the EBU’ earned him the coveted title of TV Moment of the Year, seemed genuinely taken aback by the significant influx of registrations that followed Joost’s gracious step back from the contest. “There are indeed several well-known personalities who may publicly declare they are not interested, but behind the scenes, they are signing up,” he revealed. Interestingly, neither Cornald nor Hila believe that Joost’s departure will discourage other talented artists from embarking on their own journey to Eurovision glory.
When prompted by presenter Eva Jinek about whether Anouk, a renowned Dutch artist, had been approached yet, Cornald attempted to sidestep the question, insisting, “We don’t call up the artists ourselves.” However, Hila quickly added, “We would love to reach out to her. The door is definitely open.”
Both Cornald and Hila are keen on fresh submissions, particularly noting Rob Kemps, who has already taken the initiative to post an open application via Instagram. “I really appreciated what Rob Kemps brought to the table during the European Championship,” expressed Hila. She further emphasized that Joost’s withdrawal might actually be a catalyst for more artists to step forward, stating: “‘Europe’ demonstrates that anything is possible. We encourage you to come forward with your song.”
Emerging artists and those with stage experience have until November 22 at 11:59 PM to submit their entries to the Eurovision Song Contest committee. Once the submissions close, the real work begins as the committee will then conduct blind listens to evaluate the songs. “That’s when we truly focus on the music,” they clarified.
The selection committee, led by chairman Twan van de Nieuwenhuijzen along with Sander Lantinga, Jacqueline Govaert, Jaap Reesema, and Carolien Borgers, is gearing up to make crucial decisions. Following Joost’s announcement, Sander publicly stated that AVROTROS had granted him a second opportunity outside the committee, but with Joost’s decision to refrain from this chance, action is needed urgently to secure a contender for the contest. “Anyone who thinks: I want to go to the Eurovision Song Contest can submit something,” he announced via radio station JOE regarding the open call for submissions.
The Eurovision Song Contest 2025 is set to unfold from May 13 in Switzerland, the home nation of the previous victor: Nemo. Notably, Joost has a lot to share if he decides to connect with the artists like Baby Lasagna, who finished second in Malmö this year, along with Isaak from Germany and Norway’s entry Gòòte, as they all understand the profound emotional effects that participating in the music festival can leave on each contestant.
Pen invitation for submissions on his Instagram. “I really liked Rob Kemps. He brings a unique energy,” Hila remarked, alluding to his performance at the European Championship. They believe Joost’s withdrawal could indeed inspire others to step into the spotlight, with Hila concluding, “‘Europe’ proves: anything is possible. So come with your song.”
The open call for artists to register ends on November 22, and the selection committee, which includes prominent figures like Twan van de Nieuwenhuijzen and Jacqueline Govaert, emphasizes that they will listen to all submissions without bias. Cornald and Hila reiterated that every artist interested in competing is encouraged to present their work.
As anticipation grows for Eurovision 2025, taking place in Switzerland from May 13, it’s clear that the Netherlands is ready for a fresh and possibly exhilarating entry to dazzle the continent.
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**Q&A Segment: Interview with Cornald Maas, Eurovision Selection Committee Member**
**Interviewer:** Cornald, thank you for joining us. Can you share your thoughts on finding a replacement for Joost Klein? It sounds like the selection process is already bustling!
**Cornald Maas:** Absolutely, thanks for having me! It’s been quite a whirlwind, but I’m optimistic. Joost’s decision has actually activated a number of artists who might not have otherwise considered participating.
**Interviewer:** You hinted that some well-known artists are interested but might publicly deny it. Who can we expect to see?
**Cornald Maas:** Well, we can’t disclose names just yet. But let’s just say, some artists you wouldn’t expect are quite eager behind the scenes.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned Rob Kemps in the discussions. What do you like about his potential submission?
**Cornald Maas:** Rob has an infectious energy and creativity that really resonates, especially in a format as vibrant as Eurovision. We are excited to see what he brings to the table.
**Interviewer:** Is there a particular quality you’re looking for in the next Dutch representative?
**Cornald Maas:** We seek uniqueness and flair! The Eurovision stage is all about delivering a memorable performance that blends originality with a hook that sticks.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, what’s your message to artists thinking about submitting their songs before the November deadline?
**Cornald Maas:** Don’t hesitate! This is your chance to shine on a grand stage. We truly believe that with the right song, anything is possible – Europe is waiting for your voice!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Cornald. We look forward to see who will take the stage next year!
**Cornald Maas:** Thank you for having me! Exciting times ahead for Eurovision!
**Cornald Maas:** Well, I can’t name names just yet, as we want to respect the process and artistic integrity. However, it’s quite amusing! Some of those who are claiming they’re not interested might just surprise us. This is Eurovision, after all—anything can happen!
**Interviewer:** That’s intriguing! There’s buzz around Anouk possibly participating. Have you reached out to her yet?
**Cornald Maas:** That’s a good question! We haven’t personally contacted artists. Of course, we’d love to work with Anouk; she has a great track record. The door is open, but it’s up to her to decide.
**Interviewer:** It seems Rob Kemps is already in the mix with his open application on Instagram. What do you think his chances might be?
**Cornald Maas:** Rob brings a unique energy and has showcased his talent on big stages before. The fact that he’s enthusiastic about participating is a positive sign. The committee is eager to hear all submissions, and who knows, he might just capture the hearts of both the committee and viewers alike.
**Interviewer:** With the deadline for submissions coming up on November 22, how do you feel about the participation so far?
**Cornald Maas:** We’re thrilled with the response! The enthusiasm is palpable, and I genuinely believe we’ll receive a wide range of interesting entries. The competition is fierce, and I can’t wait to see who takes the stage in Switzerland.
**Interviewer:** What do you think about Joost’s impact now that he’s stepped back—could it create an unexpected wave of new talent?
**Cornald Maas:** Absolutely! Joost’s situation has motivated many artists to consider this opportunity seriously. It’s a unique chance for them to shine, and that’s what Eurovision is all about. We want artists to step up and share their talent with the world, and this could set the stage for some exciting performances!
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Cornald! We’re looking forward to seeing how this unfolds as Eurovision 2025 approaches!
**Cornald Maas:** Thank you! It’s going to be an amazing journey, and I hope everyone tunes in!
