It seems that Estonia has gone for the big guns when it comes to this year’s Eesti Laul. Broadcaster ERR attracted a record number of entries for its 2017 national final.
A jury (consisting of Andres Puusepp, Erik Morna, Harri Hakanen, Ingrid Kohtla, Kaidi Klein, Kristel Aaslaid, Olavi Paide, Owe Petersell, Piret Järvis, Siim Nestor and Toomas Puna) chose the 20 songs listed below. They’ll compete in two semi-finals on 11 and 18 February. The Estonian Eurovision song will be picked at a final on 4 March 2017 in Tallinn‘s Saku Suurhall.
As you can see, there are some interesting names in the line-up. Ivo Linna (who must be at least 198) is back for another go. Koit Toome (1998) is teaming up with perennial favourite Laura to finally crack this thing. Liis Lemsalu – the winner of the fourth season of Eesti otsib superstaari – is there. And … most excitingly of all … ELINA BORN. Yes the Elina who can shed a tear on cue with no need for glycerin. She’s back and singing on her own. Her old mate Stig Rastamouse wrote her a song and is going for three national final wins in a row. Daniel Levi who was runner up to Elina is also having a go, but can anyone stop the Born march to glory?
She’ll have to get through her semi first though – which she should do!