The inaugural Eurovision Song Contest was held in Switzerland in 1956, with 52 nations subsequently participating in the annual event that draws millions of global viewers. Canada’s official entry into the 2027 Eurovision Song Contest prompts a retrospective of past victors, including notable Canadian competitors for other nations, who have left lasting impressions on the Eurovision platform.

This compilation serves as a quick overview of some of the most remarkable triumphs in Eurovision’s 70-year history, ranging from winners who went on to achieve significant post-victory success to those whose historic wins symbolized political and social transformations.

**ABBA for Sweden (1974)**
Before their 1974 Eurovision triumph, ABBA, primarily known in their native Sweden, gained international fame with their vibrant performance of “Waterloo.” The group’s spectacular show featured a conductor portraying Napoleon Bonaparte, complemented by eye-catching costumes adorned with multicolored velvet, satin, sequins, and silver platform boots. “Waterloo” became a global sensation, selling five million copies and securing the band’s first No. 1 hit.

**Johnny Logan for Ireland (1987)**
Johnny Logan, a three-time Eurovision winner for Ireland, captivated audiences with his emotionally charged 1987 hit “Hold Me Now.” This ’80s power ballad showcased Logan in all-white attire, belting out passionate lyrics about everlasting love against a backdrop of sweeping choruses and dramatic strings.

**Céline Dion for Switzerland (1988)**
In 1988, a young Céline Dion, yet to achieve international stardom, wowed European audiences with her rendition of “Ne partez pas sans moi.” This winning performance, penned by Swiss songwriters, showcased Dion’s commanding vocals and stage presence, propelling her to newfound fame and making her the last French-language Eurovision victor.

**Ruslana for Ukraine (2004)**
Ruslana’s 2004 Eurovision victory with “Wild Dances” was a visual spectacle, blending modern elements with traditional Hutsul culture influences. Her high-energy performance, featuring themed costumes and traditional instruments, captivated audiences and showcased her as a dynamic pop star.

**Lordi for Finland (2006)**
Finnish rock band Lordi made history in 2006 with their memorable Eurovision win. Dressed as monsters, they delivered a show-stopping performance of “Hard Rock Hallelujah,” marking Finland’s inaugural victory and becoming the first rock/metal act to claim the coveted Eurovision crown.

**Loreen for Sweden (2012)**
Loreen’s 2012 victory with “Euphoria” showcased her powerhouse vocals and contemporary dance flair. The Eurodance track not only won the competition but also became a chart-topping hit, propelling Loreen to further success in her music career.

**Conchita Wurst for Austria (2014)**
Conchita Wurst’s triumph with “Rise Like a Phoenix” in 2014 sparked controversy but also celebrated unity and tolerance. Despite facing backlash, Conchita’s powerful performance and message of acceptance resonated with viewers, leading to a resounding victory and a call for inclusivity.

**Duncan Laurence for Netherlands (2019)**
Duncan Laurence’s “Arcade” marked a milestone as the first Eurovision hit in the streaming era, earning the Netherlands a victory in 2019. The emotional ballad garnered massive online success and charted globally, showcasing Laurence’s raw talent and evocative performance.

**Måneskin for Italy (2021)**
Italian rock band Måneskin’s 2021 win with “Zitti e buoni” transcended Eurovision boundaries, resonating with audiences worldwide. Their rebellious anthem defying societal norms, coupled with a charismatic stage presence, solidified their victory and reignited interest in their music catalog.

**Nemo for Switzerland (2024)**
In 2024, Nemo made history as Switzerland’s first non-binary Eurovision winner with “The Code.” Their performance, blending opera, pop, drum and bass, and rap, was a testament to embracing their non-binary identity, underscored by acrobatics and a powerful vocal delivery that mesmerized audiences.

These iconic Eurovision victories have not only shaped the contest’s history but have also left a lasting impact on music and culture worldwide.