ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Canadian Eurovision Veterans Offer Advice for 2027 Debut

other · 2026-08-02

As Canada prepares for its first Eurovision Song Contest in 2027, four Canadian performers who previously competed in the contest share their insights. The advice comes from Annie Cotton (Switzerland 1993), Rykka (Switzerland 2016), Gary Lux (Austria, six contests), and Sherisse Laurence (Luxembourg 1986). They emphasize the importance of international promotion, authenticity, and cultural preparation. Lux advises learning about the host country and being emotionally engaging, while Laurence suggests avoiding diva behavior and showing appreciation. Cotton, who placed third in 1993, notes the contest's global reach became apparent with the internet. Rykka warns of the intense workload and potential career trade-offs, as some venues stopped booking her after her participation. The contest's massive viewership (over 130 million) and dedicated fanbase are highlighted. Canada's entry will be chosen through a process yet to be determined, and the country will compete in Bulgaria in 2027.

Key facts

  • Canada will compete in Eurovision for the first time in 2027.
  • Four Canadian former contestants were interviewed: Annie Cotton, Rykka, Gary Lux, and Sherisse Laurence.
  • Annie Cotton represented Switzerland in 1993 and finished third.
  • Rykka represented Switzerland in 2016 and described the experience as a half-year project.
  • Gary Lux, born in Peterborough, Ont., performed in six Eurovision contests, first in 1983 with Westend.
  • Sherisse Laurence represented Luxembourg in 1986 and suggested learning about the host country.
  • Eurovision 2025 had over 130 million viewers and four million TikTok followers.
  • Celine Dion, a Quebecer, won Eurovision in 1988 for Switzerland.

Entities

Artists

  • Annie Cotton
  • Rykka
  • Gary Lux
  • Sherisse Laurence
  • Celine Dion

Institutions

  • CBC News
  • Eurovision Song Contest

Locations

  • Canada
  • Switzerland
  • Austria
  • Luxembourg
  • Norway
  • Ireland
  • Bulgaria
  • Peterborough
  • Ontario
  • Huntsville
  • Vancouver
  • Toronto
  • Alberta
  • Iqaluit
  • Barbados

Sources