Latvia’s Supernova: Finalists Revealed & Eurovision 2024 Hopefuls

The Latvian national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest, Supernova 2024, is nearing its conclusion. Following the sixth episode, broadcast on February 3rd, the remaining five finalists have been determined, setting the stage for the grand final on February 10th.

Latvian Television (LTV) organized Supernova 2024, a two-stage competition consisting of a semi-final and a final. Fifteen songs initially competed for the chance to represent Latvia at the Eurovision Song Contest 2024, which will be held in Malmö, Sweden. The semi-final, which took place on February 3rd, narrowed the field down to ten contenders. The final will see these ten acts vying for the coveted spot.

While the full results of the semi-final weren’t immediately released, LTV has since revealed the complete rankings. Dons emerged as the clear frontrunner, receiving 64,845 votes from the public. Vēstulēs secured the second position with 31,477 votes, followed by Katrīna Gupalo with 17,739 votes. Alekss Silvers, Edvards Strazdiņš, Ecto, Saint Levića, Avéi, Paper Planes and Funkinbiz rounded out the remaining contestants, receiving progressively fewer votes.

The jury also played a significant role in determining the finalists. Their rankings mirrored the public vote, with Dons consistently at the top. The jury’s preferences were Dons, Vēstulēs, Katrīna Gupalo, Alekss Silvers, Saint Levića, Funkinbiz, Avéi, Edvards Strazdiņš, Ecto, and Paper Planes. The final results were calculated based on a combination of the jury and public votes, with the lowest score indicating the winner.

The final scoring breakdown revealed Dons with 2 points, Vēstulēs with 4 points, Katrīna Gupalo with 6 points, Alekss Silvers with 8 points, Saint Levića with 12 points, Edvards Strazdiņš with 13 points, Ecto with 15 points, Avéi with 15 points, Funkinbiz with 16 points, and Paper Planes with 19 points. This scoring system ultimately led to Dons being declared the winner, and will represent Latvia with his song “Hollow.”

The competition wasn’t without its surprises. Notably, Antra Stafecka, Oskis, and Ivo Grīsniņš-Grīslis were among those who did not advance to the final, despite having participated in the semi-final round. Their elimination underscores the competitive nature of Supernova and the high standard of entries this year.

The selection process has already generated considerable buzz among Latvian Eurovision fans, with social media platforms abuzz with discussions about the finalists and predictions for the final outcome. The anticipation is building as Latvia seeks to make a strong impression at the Eurovision Song Contest. Latvia was drawn to compete in the second semi-final on May 9th and successfully qualified for the final, marking their first appearance in the final since 2016.

“Hollow,” written by Artūrs Šingirejs, Kate Northrop, and Liam Geddes, is expected to be a strong contender in Malmö. The song’s success in the Latvian national selection suggests it resonates with both the public and the jury, a crucial factor for success at Eurovision. Latvia ultimately placed 16th in the final, scoring a total of 64 points.

Supernova 2024 was hosted by Ketija Šēnberga and Lauris Reiniks at the LTV Studio 6 in Riga, and broadcast on LTV1. The event has been a focal point for Latvian music enthusiasts, showcasing a diverse range of talent and solidifying Latvia’s commitment to the Eurovision Song Contest. The competition commenced on February 3rd and culminated in the final on February 10th.

The outcome of Supernova 2024 highlights the evolving landscape of Latvian music and the growing popularity of the Eurovision Song Contest within the country. With Dons now set to represent Latvia, the nation looks forward to the opportunity to showcase its musical talent on an international stage.