Eurovision stands out as a rare setting where unusual performances—such as pop stars, heavy metal monsters, and large crowds—come together. Mr Lordi, frontman of Finnish metal band Lordi, entered the Finnish national contest expecting little chance and mainly seeking exposure for a new album. The band won the popular vote decisively, and international media attention followed as they arrived in full costumes. Some people reacted with anger and even official complaints, feeling the act stole attention. At the contest in Athens, Lordi performed while sick with a fever, wearing a hot latex costume that limited breathing and vocal performance. Despite a difficult delivery, the band won, shocking Finland and leading to honors at home.
"When we were invited to enter the Finnish national contest to be the Eurovision entry, we thought we had absolutely no chance. We just wanted some free TV for our new album. Then we won the popular vote by a landslide. By the time we got to Athens, the international media was already really interested in us. We'd arrive in the press room in our full costumes, you know, just minding our own business. Then the press would go: Oh, fucking hell, that's Lordi! and run to us."
"We thought that was normal. Turns out that no, we were stealing the spotlight from others. And there were some who were really angry about that. There were even official complaints. We knew we had a good chance of winning. But on the night, that performance was one of the worst versions I personally have ever delivered of Hard Rock Hallelujah."
"I was sick with a fever. And it's so hot in that costume you have your own mobile sauna with you. It's all latex, which doesn't breathe, so you are wearing a full body-sized condom. I just couldn't do my screams, couldn't hit the high notes. Still to this day, 20 years later, I'm really displeased with it."
"When we won, it was crazy. The Fins could not believe it they never thought their country would win Eurovision. They even named the square in my home town after me. And then, within a year, t"
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