Back in the 1970s, it was almost the same countries that turned up every year. There was none of this semi-final tomfoolery. And as for the concept of countries further east taking part. Well, that would just be madness.
Obviously things chance, but going back to the 1970s, things were cosier then. Countries could do badly and yet still be assured a place in front of a Saturday night audience. The song in 14th place in cosy 1972 came from Grethe Kausland and today’s birthday boy (Artie) Benny Borg. He was a Swede but once married to Kirsti Sparboe. You may remember her from three appearances in the 1960s. Anyway, in those days, they were guaranteed at least two points per jury, so a minimum of 34. They scored 73 in total, and curiously only got four points from Sweden. Their score was indeed a ‘little thing’.
Benny is 76 today.
Gratulerer med dagen, Benny!