The First Melodifestivalen: January 29, 1959

On January 29, 1959, Sweden held its first Melodifestivalen, a music competition designed to select the country’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest. This event marked the beginning of a long-standing tradition in Swedish music culture, which has since become one of the most popular television events in Sweden.

Background

The Eurovision Song Contest, established in 1956, quickly gained popularity across Europe as a platform for showcasing musical talent from various countries. Sweden, eager to participate and make its mark on the international stage, organized Melodifestivalen to select its representative for the contest.

The Event

• Date: January 29, 1959
• Location: Cirkus, Stockholm
• Broadcast: The event was broadcast on Sveriges Radio, the Swedish national radio service, as television broadcasts of the competition would not begin until 1960.

Format

The inaugural Melodifestivalen featured a straightforward format, with a small number of entries competing for the honor of representing Sweden at Eurovision. The competition was judged by a panel of experts who evaluated the performances and selected the winner.

Outcome

• Winner: The song “Augustin,” performed by Siw Malmkvist, won the competition.
• Eurovision Entry: Despite winning Melodifestivalen, Siw Malmkvist did not perform the song at the Eurovision Song Contest. Instead, Brita Borg was chosen to represent Sweden with the same song at the Eurovision Song Contest held in Cannes, France, later that year.

Significance

The first Melodifestivalen set the stage for what would become an annual tradition in Sweden. Over the years, the competition has evolved significantly, growing in scale and popularity. It has become a crucial platform for launching the careers of many Swedish artists and has contributed to Sweden’s reputation as a powerhouse in the Eurovision Song Contest.

Legacy

Melodifestivalen has played a significant role in shaping Swedish pop culture and music. It has introduced numerous successful artists and songs to both national and international audiences. The competition continues to be a beloved event, drawing millions of viewers each year and maintaining its status as a key component of Sweden’s cultural identity.

In summary, the first Melodifestivalen on January 29, 1959, was a pivotal moment in Swedish music history, laying the foundation for a tradition that continues to thrive and influence the global music scene.