Montenegro Returns to Eurovision After Hiatus: An Enthralling Comeback Through «Montesong 2024»
After a two-year absence, Montenegro is set to make a striking return to the Eurovision Song Contest in 2025. This exciting news comes after the national broadcaster RTCG announced a public call for entries, marking the country’s comeback to the world’s most watched music competition. Montenegro last participated in Eurovision in 2022, but economic challenges forced the small Balkan nation to sit out the following years. Now, however, the stage is set for their triumphant return, with the country preparing to select its representative through a new national selection event, Montesong 2024.
A Journey of Resilience and Passion
Montenegro’s Eurovision history has been one of determination and artistry. Despite being a relatively new entrant, debuting as an independent country in 2007, Montenegro has made its mark on the Eurovision stage. The nation has participated in 12 editions of the contest, with standout performances from artists like Sergej Ćetković, who qualified for the final in 2014 with his touching ballad «Moj svijet,» and Nenad Knežević (Knez), who did the same in 2015 with «Adio,» an ethnic-influenced song that captivated audiences across Europe.
Though the country has experienced its share of struggles in reaching the grand final in recent years, Montenegro’s commitment to the Eurovision tradition remains strong. The last Montenegrin representative was Vladana Vučinić, who performed «Breathe» in 2022. Unfortunately, financial pressures kept the country out of the contest in 2023 and 2024, but with the economy stabilising, Montenegro is ready to compete once again.
Montesong 2024: The Road to Eurovision 2025
Montenegro’s selection process for Eurovision 2025 will be hosted through a newly announced competition, Montesong 2024, set to take place in Podgorica. This festival will follow the Eurovision format with a mix of jury and public voting, ensuring a fair and exciting contest. It represents more than just a national selection; it is a celebration of Montenegrin music and culture, with the goal of advancing the country’s pop music scene on an international level.
The rules for the contest are clear: submissions must be new compositions of popular music that have not been published or performed before 1st September 2024. At least 51% of the lyrics must be in one of Montenegro’s official languages. Moreover, while the composers can come from any country, the performers must hold Montenegrin citizenship and be over the age of 16 by 1st May 2025.
The winning composition will be determined by a 50/50 split between jury votes—comprising music and media professionals—and the public vote, ensuring that Montenegro’s next Eurovision hopeful is chosen both by expert opinion and the voice of the people.
Building Toward Switzerland, 2025
Eurovision 2025 will be hosted in Switzerland, following the success of Swiss artist Nemo, who won the 2024 contest in Malmö with the song «The Code.» It was Switzerland’s third victory in Eurovision history, and with the contest returning to the nation that launched Eurovision back in 1956, excitement is already building for the upcoming edition.
Montenegro’s decision to return to Eurovision could be the beginning of a new chapter for the country in this prestigious contest. The public and the artists alike are eager to make their mark in Switzerland, after having been absent for two consecutive years. This comeback is not just about winning—it is about reconnecting with Europe through the universal language of music.
As the Montenegrin music community rallies behind Montesong 2024, all eyes will be on which song and performer will carry the Montenegrin flag to the Eurovision stage in May 2025. One thing is certain: the passion and creativity of Montenegro’s artists, combined with the support of an enthusiastic public, will make this comeback one to remember.
Source: RTCG
Great news! Best of luck, Montenegro!