Spain’s national broadcaster, RTVE, has announced the opening of the submission window for Benidorm Fest 2025, set to be the country’s selection process for the Eurovision Song Contest 2025. This eagerly anticipated event invites musicians and songwriters to submit their entries, with the window open until October 10, 2024.
Eligibility and Requirements
To ensure a diverse and high-quality selection, RTVE has outlined specific eligibility criteria for participants. Solo performers must be Spanish citizens or residents and at least 16 years old. Groups are required to have at least 50% of their members meeting this nationality or residency criterion. For songwriting teams, at least one member must hold Spanish citizenship or residency.
The songs submitted must be original works, running between 2:30 and 3:00 minutes in length. Language plays a crucial role in the competition, with a requirement that songs be performed primarily in one of Spain’s official languages—Spanish, Catalan, Galician, or Basque. However, up to 40% of the lyrics may be in another language, allowing for some creative flexibility.
Selection Process
A professional panel of music industry experts will evaluate all submissions to select the top 16 entries. These chosen acts will compete in a series of live shows, including two semi-finals and a grand final. The format is designed to showcase a wide array of musical talent and styles, reflecting the rich cultural diversity of Spain.
The semi-finals will narrow the field, leading to a grand final where the winner will be decided. The decision-making process involves both expert juries and public voting, ensuring a balanced and fair outcome. The combination of professional and public input aims to select the most promising entry to represent Spain on the international stage.
The Road to Eurovision 2025
The ultimate goal of Benidorm Fest 2025 is to find a standout act to represent Spain at the Eurovision Song Contest, which will be held in Sweden next year. Spain has a long history with Eurovision, and the national selection process is a key element in preparing a competitive entry that can capture the hearts and votes of the international audience.
RTVE’s commitment to a transparent and inclusive selection process is evident in the detailed guidelines and the emphasis on originality and linguistic representation. By opening the submission window well in advance, the broadcaster provides ample time for artists to craft and refine their entries, ensuring the highest possible standard of competition.
Looking Forward
As the submission window opens, excitement builds among fans and participants alike. Benidorm Fest 2025 promises to be a celebration of Spanish music and culture, offering a platform for both established and emerging artists to shine. With the combination of expert juries, public involvement, and a stringent selection process, Spain is poised to find a stellar representative for Eurovision 2025.
