Germany’s Next Eurovision Star Revealed: Abor & Tynna Win ‘Baller’ at Chefsache ESC 2025

Tonight, the German city of Hurth played host to the final of Chefsache ESC 2025 – Wer singt für Deutschland?, the national selection that decides who will carry the German set to take place from 13th to 17th May in Basel. Presented by the iconic Barbara Schöneberger , the show featured nine artists performing both a cover and their Eurovision song in the first round. Under the discerning eyes of a jury composed of Stefan Raab, Conchita Wurst, Yvonne Catterfeld, and Nico Santos, five acts advanced to the second round where the audience chose Germany’s next representative.

Show Recap:

Following a performance by Nico Santos, Barbara Schöneberger welcomed us to the final, introducing the jury who, after a brief chat, handed over the stage to the performers:

• The Great Leslie – “These Days”
  The British-German band had the honour of opening the evening with a rock number reminiscent of Franz Ferdinand and Kaiser Chiefs, as parts of the song’s lyrics and their name flashed in green and pink on the screen. They also treated us to a ska-rock version of ABBA’s global hit “Waterloo.” A nostalgic blast that, despite its retro charm, felt all too predictable.

• Benjamin Braatz – “Like You Love Me”
  Sitting among the crowd before climbing onto a large chair in the centre of the stage, accompanied by LED images of himself and his guitar, he delivered a Beatles-esque ballad that left the audience mesmerised. He even attempted a Robbie Williams cover – though aside from an impressive guitar solo, it failed to leave a lasting impression.
• LEONORA – “The Bliss”
  Dressed in a striking red gown and playing the piano, Leonora delivered a soulful piece that moved many. Prior to this, she had given a funky rendition of Dua Lipa’s “Houdini,” showcasing her versatility and a hint of irony.

• Feuerschwanz – “Knightclub”
  The band, decked out as medieval warriors, set the stage ablaze with a heavy metal number blending German and English amidst actual flames. For their cover, they opted for a rock version of Ed Sheeran’s “See Fire,” a choice that definitely sparked conversation.
• Moss Kena – “Nothing Can Stop Love”
  The London-born artist offered an intimate ballad proving that when a song is good, elaborate staging isn’t necessary. He also delivered a funky reinterpretation of Dua Lipa’s “Levitating,” adding a refreshing twist.

• Abor & Tynna – “Baller”
  After Moss Kena’s tender performance, this duo took centre stage with a high-energy dance number accompanied by two dancers, while the word “baller” intermittently flashed on the screen. Just before the end, Tynna grabbed Abor’s cello and banged it. They also served a more symphonic version of Nancy Sinatra’s 1966 hit “Bang Bang.”

• COSBY – “I’m Still Here”
  Against a red-dominated backdrop adorned with butterflies, COSBY delivered a heart-wrenching rock ballad. Their cover, a synth-pop take on Whitney Houston’s “I Wanna Dance with Somebody,” was polished, though perhaps overly so.
• LYZA – “Lovers On Mars”
  With Earth in the background and two dancers moving as if defying gravity, Lyza captivated the audience with a pop track laced with country influences. Earlier, she had offered a very intimate version of Radiohead’s “Creep,” proving that sometimes subtlety is key.

• JULIKA – “Empress”
  Closing the evening, Julika stunned in a giant dress while four dancers literally hoisted her up. Her performance was widely regarded as one of the best of the night. In her cover segment, she delivered a version of Loreen’s “Euphoria” that left the audience clamouring for more.

Following a brief interlude reviewing Eurovision’s storied history, the jury – chaired by Stefan Raab – announced the five acts advancing to the next round: The Great Leslie, Leonora, Moss Kena, Abor & Tynna, and LYZA.

And the Winner Is…

After an interlude hosted by Yvonne Catterfeld, Stefan Raab, and Fritze Merz, the moment that had Germany and Eurovision fans worldwide on the edge of their seats finally arrived: the televote results. With 34.9% of the vote, Germany’s next representative is Abor & Tynna with their track «Baller». The duo will replace Isaak, who finished 12th last year in Malmö. Remember, as part of the Big 5, Germany will perform directly in the grand final on Saturday, 17th May.

Is this the dawn of a new era for Germany at Eurovision, or just another chapter of contrasting performances and puzzling votes? Only time – and a few cheeky tweets – will tell.