Swedish Eurovision National Final To Remain The Same

It's that time of year again, when a plethora of countries start informing the EBU whether they are in or out. Sweden who have confirmed that they are definitely 'in' have also released details of their very popular Melodifestivalen. The Swedish broadcaster SVT has confirmed that it will stick to its current format, and that there will not be any changes for Melodifestivalen 2018.

This means there will be 28 entries competing for their place in Portugal. In previous years there has been up to 32. Although cities have yet to be confirmed as hosts, there will be 4 semi finals in various cities, a second chance round, all culminating in their Grand Final which is likely to be in March. This format is successful producing all of Sweden's winners, and 15 top 5 placings. Amongst fans it is very popular, with many seeing it as a mini Eurovision, it is broadcast in several nations, and it has become accepted that it's re-modernisation in the early 2000's has propelled Sweden to being one of the most successful nations in Eurovision. With 3 wins since 99, it has become the most successful Eurovision country of the noughties.

Of this years competition Christer Björkman, producer of the Meoldifestivalen has said, "With another top five position for Sweden in the Eurovision Song Contest, we can now look forward to a new season of Melodifestivalen... We want breadth, diversity and variety and that is why we call for songs in different languages, genres and styles".

This year any song writers wishing to submit a song have between 1st September until 18th September 2017 to upload their music to the official Melodifestivalen website. Just like last year, there will be two contests, one for more established writers, and one for the general public.

The 2017 edition of Melodifestivalen saw Robert Bengtsson win, and represent Sweden at the Eurovision Song Contest. He produced yet another top 5 for Sweden getting 218 points from the juries (3rd place) and with the public 126 points (8th place). Scoring a grand total of 344 points. How will Sweden faire this year? Stay tuned to Eurovoxx for more information regarding 2018. Check out all melodifestivalen winner from 2000 below:

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