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Eurovision Asia Hits Thailand: What to Expect?
14 Nov
Summary
- Thailand hosts the inaugural Eurovision Asia contest.
- Contestants avoid overtly camp acts due to cultural sensitivities.
- English lyrics are still favored by nearly half of the entries.
The inaugural Eurovision Asia song contest is scheduled to take place in Thailand on Saturday, featuring 11 competing countries. While distinct from the elaborate European version, the event aims to offer a unique spectacle. Performers have largely avoided the overtly camp styles associated with Eurovision, influenced by restrictive attitudes towards homosexuality in some broadcast regions.
Despite these adjustments, a familiar Eurovision element persists, with almost half of the entries utilizing English lyrics. Among the favorites is Malaysia's Aina Abdul, whose dramatic power ballad "Bluest Sky" is anticipated to be a strong contender. The Philippines' Carmelle will present "Sobra-Sobra," a feminist anthem blending contemporary pop with rap.
Other acts include Laos' Thinla with the repetitive chorus of "Bae," and potential ballads from Thailand's Mang x Daou and Cambodia's Monetrey. Mongolia's entry, "Chamguigeer (Without You)," is a replacement due to a prior release issue. Nepal offers a rock-influenced performance with "Ananta Maya," while Vietnam's Tóc Tiên presents "Em Tiên," a song combining synthpop with a faster tempo.
The hosting duties in Bangkok will be managed by Woody Milintachinda and Cindy Bishop. The interval act will feature Dara, the 2026 Eurovision winner. Eurovision Asia will be broadcast on SBS in Australia and the Eurovision YouTube channel in Europe.