The Man behind Sandstorm is the Finnish choice for Eurovision 2019.
Finnish TV broadcaster Yle has chosen dance music icon Darude to represent them in the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest.
Darude, (real name Ville Virtanen) is one of the most successful Finnish artists of the modern era. He started making music in 1995 and released his hit single Sandstorm in 1999. It is one of the most iconic dance tracks of all time and is ingrained in popular culture due to its meme-worthy status and recreations.
"A Bit Scared"
About participating in the 2019 Eurovision Song Contest Darude said "This is a huge challenge for me in many ways. When I was asked to represent Finland I felt a bit scared at first, but there was no way I could say no to my country! It is an honour to be part of this incredible experience and I only have positive expectations!"
Darude will now release three songs worldwide on the 8th, 15th, and 22nd February. The one track that will finally represent Finland in May, will be decided by a combination of public vote and international jury points via a live TV broadcast on the 2nd of March.
Eurovision 2019 takes place in Tel Aviv, Israel in May with Ireland's entry still to be decided.
