Canada is gearing up for its debut at the Eurovision Song Contest with high hopes of making a lasting impression. The big question is, will they opt for a classic ballad reminiscent of Céline Dion’s 1988 success, or will they embrace Eurovision’s quirky side like Greece did this year with Akylas’ larger-than-life orange cat performance?
The search is on for the perfect artist to represent Canada on this grand stage, and the application process is now open for aspiring performers. While anyone can throw their hat in the ring, CBC/Radio-Canada is on the lookout for seasoned artists with a proven track record.
Already, three contenders have thrown their hats into the ring. Rêve, a Montreal native and winner of the 2023 Juno Award for Dance Recording of the Year; Talk, who captivated audiences at last year’s Canada Day concert and snagged the Juno for breakthrough artist of the year in 2024; and bbno$, the back-to-back Fan Choice Juno winner in 2025 and 2026.
To be eligible for the Eurovision stage, contestants must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents, at least 18 years old by May 1, 2027, capable of international travel, and able to pass standard background checks. Additionally, applicants must provide two videos showcasing their live performance skills and their passion for Eurovision.
A key requirement for singers is fluency in both English and French, as the Canadian entry must feature lyrics in both languages. The selection process will involve a combination of online public voting and a jury vote to decide the artist who will represent Canada at Eurovision.
The chosen artist will play a pivotal role in shaping the final song for the competition. While they are not required to bring their own music, the selected artist will work closely with established songwriters to craft the perfect entry. The journey from shortlist to the Eurovision Grand Final in May will be a whirlwind of songwriting, music video production, and rehearsals.
Despite the hard work involved, the exposure gained from Eurovision is considered a priceless opportunity for artists. The selected performer will be compensated for their efforts, but the true reward lies in the global spotlight awaiting them on the Eurovision stage.