Netherlands' Eurovision Wins: A History

The Netherlands, a small country with a big heart, has a rich history in the Eurovision Song Contest. From heartwarming ballads to catchy pop tunes, the Dutch have made their mark on the competition, securing a handful of victories that have resonated with audiences across Europe and beyond. Let's dive into the story of the Netherlands' Eurovision wins, exploring the songs, the artists, and the cultural impact of these memorable moments.

The Netherlands joined the Eurovision family right from the start, participating in the very first contest in 1956. It didn't take long for them to taste victory, setting the stage for a series of triumphs that have cemented their place in Eurovision history. These wins aren't just about the songs themselves; they reflect the changing musical landscape, the evolving cultural identities of Europe, and the enduring power of music to connect people.

The First Victory: Corry Brokken's "Net Als Toen" (1957)

In 1957, just a year after the inaugural Eurovision Song Contest, the Netherlands celebrated its first win with Corry Brokken and her captivating song "Net Als Toen" (Like It Used To Be). This classic chanson, performed with grace and emotion by Brokken, struck a chord with the juries, who were the sole voters at the time. "Net Als Toen" is a beautiful ballad that tells the story of a woman reminiscing about a past love, longing for the way things used to be. The lyrics evoke a sense of nostalgia and melancholy, themes that resonate universally, regardless of language or cultural background. Brokken's performance was simple yet powerful, allowing the raw emotion of the song to shine through.

The victory was a significant moment for the Netherlands, solidifying their position as a key player in the early years of Eurovision. It also demonstrated the power of a well-crafted song, delivered with sincerity and passion. "Net Als Toen" remains a beloved classic in the Netherlands and is often cited as one of the highlights of the country's Eurovision history. The win not only brought pride to the nation but also helped to establish Eurovision as a platform for showcasing Dutch musical talent to a wider European audience. Corry Brokken became a national icon, her name forever associated with this historic moment. The impact of this win extended beyond the music industry, influencing popular culture and inspiring future generations of Dutch artists to pursue their dreams on the international stage.

A Second Triumph: Teddy Scholten's "Een Beetje" (1959)

Just two years later, in 1959, the Netherlands tasted victory once again, this time with Teddy Scholten and her charming tune "Een Beetje" (A Little Bit). This upbeat and optimistic song was a departure from the more melancholic style of "Net Als Toen," showcasing the versatility of Dutch musical talent. "Een Beetje" is a delightful song about a girl who is asked if she is in love. She playfully admits that she is "a little bit" in love, capturing the giddy feeling of new romance. Scholten's performance was full of energy and charisma, infectious and irresistible to the audience. The song's catchy melody and lighthearted lyrics made it an instant favorite, securing the Netherlands their second Eurovision crown in just a few years.

This win further cemented the Netherlands' reputation as a Eurovision powerhouse, demonstrating their ability to produce winning songs in various styles. Teddy Scholten became a household name, her career boosted by the Eurovision victory. "Een Beetje" enjoyed international success, reaching audiences beyond Europe and solidifying its place as a Eurovision classic. The song's positive message and cheerful melody continue to resonate with listeners today. The victory also highlighted the importance of performance in Eurovision, demonstrating how a captivating stage presence can enhance a song's appeal. Scholten's infectious enthusiasm and engaging interaction with the audience played a significant role in securing the win for the Netherlands. "Een Beetje" remains a popular choice for Eurovision retrospectives and is often performed by contemporary artists as a tribute to the contest's rich history.

The 1970s: Lenny Kuhr's "De Troubadour" (1969) - A Four-Way Tie!

The 1969 contest was quite the unusual event with Lenny Kuhr singing "De Troubadour", because there was a four-way tie! The Netherlands shared the top spot with France, Spain and the United Kingdom. "De Troubadour" is a poetic and enchanting song, sung in Dutch with elements of French, that tells the story of a medieval minstrel traveling the land, spreading messages of love and peace through his music. Kuhr's performance was ethereal and captivating, her voice soaring above the orchestra. The song's lyrics evoke a sense of longing and wanderlust, while the melody is both haunting and beautiful. The shared victory was a controversial moment in Eurovision history, leading to changes in the voting rules to prevent future ties of this magnitude.

Despite the shared win, Lenny Kuhr's "De Troubadour" remains a significant entry in the Netherlands' Eurovision history. The song's artistic merit and Kuhr's captivating performance elevated the contest beyond mere entertainment, demonstrating the potential of Eurovision as a platform for showcasing musical creativity and cultural expression. The win also reflected the changing musical landscape of the time, with more emphasis being placed on artistic integrity and originality. Kuhr's victory paved the way for other unconventional entries in subsequent years. "De Troubadour" has been covered by numerous artists and continues to be admired for its beauty and artistic depth. The shared victory, while controversial, ultimately contributed to the legend and lore of Eurovision, creating a memorable chapter in the contest's long and storied history. Lenny Kuhr's contribution to Dutch music and her enduring legacy as a Eurovision icon are undeniable. The song's message of peace and love continues to resonate with audiences today, transcending language barriers and cultural differences.

A Long Wait: Duncan Laurence's "Arcade" (2019)

After a long wait of 44 years, the Netherlands finally reclaimed the Eurovision crown in 2019 with Duncan Laurence and his poignant ballad "Arcade." This contemporary and emotionally charged song resonated with audiences worldwide, breaking records and topping charts across Europe. "Arcade" is a powerful song about heartbreak and the search for love, with Laurence's soulful vocals conveying a deep sense of vulnerability and longing. The song's simple yet effective staging, featuring Laurence at his piano, allowed the emotion of the song to take center stage. The victory was a euphoric moment for the Netherlands, ending a long period of drought and reigniting the nation's passion for Eurovision.

Duncan Laurence's win was not just a victory for the Netherlands but also a testament to the enduring power of a well-crafted song. "Arcade" went on to achieve global success, reaching audiences far beyond the Eurovision bubble and proving that the contest can be a launching pad for international stardom. The song's message of hope and resilience resonated with people from all walks of life, making it an anthem for those who have experienced heartbreak and loss. Laurence's victory also highlighted the importance of authenticity in Eurovision, demonstrating that genuine emotion and artistic integrity can connect with audiences on a profound level. "Arcade" has inspired countless artists and songwriters, solidifying its place as a modern Eurovision classic. The song's enduring popularity and its impact on the music industry serve as a reminder of the transformative power of Eurovision and its ability to bring people together through music. Duncan Laurence's legacy as a Eurovision champion is secure, his name forever etched in the history of the contest.

The Netherlands' Enduring Eurovision Legacy

The Netherlands' Eurovision journey is a testament to the country's rich musical heritage and its enduring love for the contest. From the classic charm of Corry Brokken and Teddy Scholten to the contemporary appeal of Duncan Laurence, the Dutch have consistently delivered memorable performances and winning songs. These victories have not only brought joy to the nation but have also contributed to the evolution of Eurovision itself. The Netherlands' success in Eurovision is a reflection of the country's commitment to artistic expression, its ability to adapt to changing musical trends, and its unwavering passion for the contest. The Dutch have consistently used the Eurovision stage to showcase their musical talent and to connect with audiences across Europe and beyond. Their contributions to the contest have enriched its history and have helped to shape its identity.

As Eurovision continues to evolve, the Netherlands remains a key player, always ready to surprise and delight audiences with its innovative and captivating entries. The country's enduring legacy in Eurovision is a source of pride for the Dutch people and a testament to the power of music to unite and inspire. The Netherlands' Eurovision story is far from over, and fans around the world eagerly await the next chapter in this captivating musical journey. The country's future in Eurovision is bright, with a new generation of talented artists ready to take the stage and represent the Netherlands with passion and pride. The Netherlands' Eurovision legacy is a story of resilience, creativity, and unwavering love for music, a story that will continue to unfold for many years to come.