Who elected your candidate then? A jury or "normal" portuguese people?
Lena was elected by the (german) audience, not because she has an amazing voice (which she hasnt imho), mainly because she is somehow unique and has a hugh presence.
The girl who stood in the final with her of the german casting sow interpreted the song "satelitte" way different and showed her tremendous voice, but overall her attidute and acting was average (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sfm-BtdhcFU). From the singing POV it's better compared to lena's version: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qbM5l1ZPrHw
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Here in Holland was a 'show' before the big festival, to decide who goes.
It was between this 16 year old girl, and an already 'known' artist, who can actually sing.
The public (audience) voted on the artist, but there also was a 'jury' (made out of people who know shit about music, but they got a television face). This 'jury' decided that the 16 year old should go, instead the known 'artist' who can actually sing.
Not that I give a shit, like gaz said: it's a big hoax, with political votes everywhere. It seems that this year it stopped abit.