Having worked for in the music industry for 20 years with a-list artists, producers and record labels, some might ask, why Eurovision? In recent years many people have viewed the show as perhaps a joke and definitely not something a music industry professional would be keen to work on. However, this year I was approached by Eurovision to become both Judge and Chairperson for the UK panel and am happy to report I accepted the job immediately. I have been lucky enough to work on some of the biggest talent shows both in the UK and America so when this opportunity came up it seems a natural fit and an exciting opportunity to work with new and emerging artists.
It may come as a surprise to some but the Eurovision is now the largest non-sporting live TV event in the world. The competition has been held annually for 60 years and is celebrating its 61st birthday this year with an even bigger production involving more insight into the hard work from those behind the camera such as the judges and production team as well as those performing. Eurovision is about celebrating diversity and talent within Europe, as well as equality. This is demonstrated through the ongoing combined scoring system involving both judges and the public vote. New for this year, the semi-final and final rounds of Eurovision will also be broadcasted in the United States which is super exciting and raises the profile of the competition and its artists to a new level.
For me it is such a great privilege and honour to be part of the Eurovision family as a both a judge and chairperson for the United Kingdom. I have always been a fan of the competition as it uses music and song as a tool to unite people from different countries, regardless of language, culture, ethnicity, age, sex and gender - a truly inclusive event.
In my heart of hearts I believe that every human being in the world has one thing in common - they either have a dream or had a dream. I am lucky enough to have worked within the music industry where I have seen the most unlikely people, in the most unlikely places, achieve great things. I am passionate in encouraging everybody, no matter where you come from or what your goals are not to be held back by fear. One of my missions is to help all those I work with believe in themselves and reach their goals. For me life is all about the journey, our experiences and what we learn along the way, not just only the end result.
Eurovision is encouraging an art that has for years brought people together and reaches out to every human being in the world. This is a heritage for us all!