Established and well-respected traditional Irish musicians Dervish are RTÉ's internally selected representative for the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest in Helsinki. Following Ireland's 2006 return to form with a top 10 finish, a similar process will be followed for choosing a song. Can Dervish make it 8 wins for the all-time Eurovision champions?
Dervish have released ten CDs over a nearly 20 year career. They are among the most well-respected traditional music groups in Ireland and among the Irish diaspora. Currently on tour in the US, Dervish will also be performing in continental Europe before returning home for Christmas.
Similar to last year, songwriters will have until 8 January 2007 to submit a 3 minute original song for consideration. The "final four" songs will be performed on 16th February 2007 on The late late show, with the public selecting its favourite via a televote.
Kevin Linehan, Commissioning Editor, Entertainment Programmes, RTÉ Television, said "With the Eurovision now an increasingly complex and competitive competition, RTÉ feels that Dervish's proven experience of delivering exciting performances to mass live audiences around the world makes them an exciting proposition for the Eurovision stage. We look forward to finding the best song for Dervish to take to Finland in 2007."
Shane Mitchell of Dervish said on RTE's website: "We are honoured to accept RTÉ's invitation to represent Ireland at Eurovision 2007 and look forward to raising the roof of the Areena in Helsinki."
Thanks to Brian Kennedy's 10th place finish with Every song is a cry for love Ireland is directly qualified for the final of the 2007 Eurovision Song Contest. Ireland has previously won the contest in 1970, 1980, 1987, 1992, 1993, 1994 and 1996 – the most wins by any participating country.
To see a performance by Dervish from the Festival Sons do Atlantico in 2005, click the 'play icon' below.
