2004: The Winner

RUSLANA WITH "WILD DANCES" FOR UKRAINE

PHOTO: fanclub.ruslana.ua

Inspired by the music of the Ukrainian Carpathians and her own Hutsul* heritage, Ruslana's "Wild Dances" was always a hot favorite to win. One of two stand out songs in a mixed bag of crazy that the 2004 entries ultimately were, Ruslana's song seemed the most primed to win. A radio friendly, remixable, dance song with tons of energy, the song has since become one of the most recognizable Eurovision winners. She was dubbed "Xena Warrior Princess" by Sir Terry Wogan, who complained the contest had become a "dance competition." He implied the song had no merit and I think contrary. The song's mixing of Ukrainian and English, it's contemporary feel all the while using traditional instruments and it's captivating hook make it an excellent example of Ukrainian musical culture. Ruslana has since become an important political activist and European superstar, her appearances on Eurovision national finals have become infamous for her incoherent rambling while on stage. She means well and speaks with emotion, it's clear the woman cares deeply about her home land and the win for Ukraine was an important one. It was only second time the country had taken part in the contest and the win had unprecedented consequences on the country in the following year.*The Hutsul people live in the mountains of Eastern Ukraine.

Semi-Final Score: 256 pts (2nd Place out of 22)

Final Score: 280 pts (1st Place out of 24)

Written by Ruslana Lyzchicko and Oleksandr Ksenofontov.

Final Performance:

Music Video: