Eurovision Top 100, #56: Merci, Chérie (Austria, 1966)

At number 56 on the Eurovision Top 100 countdown is one of the best to ever do it, the great Udo Jürgens with his 1966 song “Merci, Chérie.”

Jürgens represented his native Austria three times, with 1966 being the last time, and also the most successful.  He was a pioneer in that he was the first to play his own piano accompaniment while singing the song.  The first time I heard his 1964 song, which was his first entry, I acknowledged that something about his act just worked.  By the time I heard 1966, I said yes, give this man the trophy.  Udo is a Eurovision legend and deserves his spot in the Top 100.

Vital Information: “Merci, Chérie”

What I Liked

Udo was one smooth singer.  His song was very soft but emotional, especially at first.  He eventually turned up the volume and showed off that range, all while playing the piano quite well.  He may not have been the first multi-talented person to win Eurovision, but he was the first one to show it off in his Eurovision act.

There were some interesting lyrics as well, though in some respects it was a standard-issue love song.  Per Eurovision World, which has the lyrics for every ESC song, the line which stuck with me was “no sea is as wild as love.” Ain’t that the truth.

Other Facts

• As mentioned, this was the final of three Eurovision appearances for Jürgens.  He represented the country three years in a row.
• Jürgens passed away in late 2014, and ironically, Austria had just won the contest for the first time since his 1966 victory.  When Vienna hosted Eurovision in 2015, they offered a tribute to their first winning performer.
• Udo performed in the middle of the running order, at ninth out of 18 songs.
• Austria got about twice as many points as the next-highest country.  Jürgens won with 31 points, while Sweden came in second with 16.

“Merci, Chérie” – It’s on YouTube

I didn’t put it there, but nevertheless, it’s there.  That means you should watch it.