EBU: San Marino song lyrics in breach of Rules

EBU: San Marino song lyrics in breach of Rules
Valentina Monetta is the performer of the song. Photo: Claude Langlois
Baku, Azerbaijan -

On Saturday 17th of March, the Reference Group of the Eurovision Song Contest evaluated the San Marino entry Facebook, Uh, Oh, Oh. It was concluded that the entry is in breach of rule 1.2.2.g of the contest.

"The lyrics and/or performance of the songs shall not bring the Shows, the ESC as such or the EBU into disrepute. No lyrics, speeches, gestures of a political or similar nature shall be permitted during the ESC. No swearing or other unacceptable language shall be allowed in the lyrics or in the performances of the songs. No commercial messages of any kind shall be allowed. A breach of this rule may result in disqualification." says the point 1.2.2.g of the Rules of the 2012 Eurovision Song Contest.

The Reference Group concluded that due to the title and repetitive presence of the trademark 'Facebook', the song contains a commercial message and is therefore not eligible to participate in the Eurovision Song Contest.

In support of SMRTV's participation, it was decided to give the broadcaster the opportunity to either deliver a new version of the lyrics that does not include a reference to Facebook, or to deliver a new song. The deadline set for the delivery of new lyrics and/or song was set to Friday, 23rd of March at 12:00 CET.


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