Eurovision 1997 Iceland

Páll Óskar (dubbed Paul Oscar) performing the Icelandic entry at the 1997 Eurovision Song Contest in Dublin, Ireland.
"Minn Hinsti Dans" ("My Final Dance")
A stunning, provocative and genuinely moving pop ballad, "Minn Hinsti Dans" was arguably the most original, artistic number of the night. But in 1997, the conservative juries were probably put off by Páll Óskar's overt homosexuality, and we had to settle for a measly 20th place. However, all but one of our smattering of points came from the televote that was given a trial run in 1997, and one can argue that Páll Óskar set the tone for changes in the Eurovision Song Contest - changes that would be built on (for better or for worse) over the coming years. I fiercely maintain that "Minn Hinsti Dans" is one of the best Icelandic entries of all time, and certainly one of my fondest favorites.

[@JeSuisRene]

I love how the techno backing track is mixed superbly with the live orchestra!

[@Euroviking86]

I completely agree. Conductor Szymon Kuran deserves appreciation for the arrangement. It turned into a perfect marriage of orchestra and backing track.

[@euro--towelie1890]

Easily one of the most iconic Eurovision performances. Paul Oscar has to return to the Eurovision stage one day!

[@Euroviking86]

He's been asked many times, but he's always said that he won't until he finds the right song.

[@EldaMengisto]

Compelling, nihilistic, and alluring. While I admit to not getting this at first, it grew on me over time, with the thoughtful lyrics and dark backing track. In Dublin, the orchestra really added some neat touches to it, creating an atmosphere that I thought was completely playback! A game-changer in terms of staging and LGBTQ representation, it's my favorite Icelandic entry ever from their lot of very provocative entries.

[@JeSuisRene]

A lovely song and performance which was daring and different. Way ahead of its time. My 10th place of 1997, though it was a strong year!

[@prowelsh56]

IT IS ONE OF THE BEST EVER....XXXX

[@sienekebd]

Amazing... R.I.P Szymon Kuran.

[@PedroSantos-yc9id]

It was so ahead of its time! Perfect mix of the orchestra and the track

[@luvhart]

It’s as if RTÈ designed the stage for that ONE song🥰

[@Euroviking86]

Yeah, the cinematography was exquisite for this act.

[@PedroSantos-yc9id]

It's my favourite stage off all times!

[@joshphilo8568]

It wouldn’t be for another 16 years that Icelandic would be heard at Eurovision, which would evolve into hatari:)

[@Ok-fh1xz]

Awful music but it‘s still iconic