JJ’s Historic Eurovision Victory: A Fusion of Opera and Techno
On May 17, 2025, the Eurovision Song Contest witnessed a groundbreaking moment as JJ, also known as Johannes Pietsch, clinched victory with his operatic-techno fusion track "Wasted Love." This win marked Austria’s first Eurovision triumph since Conchita Wurst’s iconic victory in 2014 and Udo Jürgens’ win in 1966, bringing the country’s total to three wins. JJ’s unique blend of classical and contemporary music captivated audiences and juries alike, solidifying his place in Eurovision history.
The Grand Final: A Night of Spectacle
The grand final, held in Basel, Switzerland, featured 26 competitors, each vying for the coveted trophy. JJ’s performance stood out among a diverse lineup, which included Israel’s Yuval Raphael, who secured second place with "New Day Will Rise," and Estonia’s Tommy Cash, who took third with "Espresso Macchiato." Sweden’s KAJ rounded out the top four with "Bara Bada Bastu," a playful homage to sauna culture. The competition was fierce, but JJ’s powerful vocals and innovative sound ultimately led him to victory.
A Rising Star from Vienna
Born in Vienna in 2001, JJ’s journey began in Dubai, where he spent his early years before returning to Austria in 2016. His multicultural background has significantly influenced his artistic identity. A classically trained countertenor, JJ has performed at the prestigious Vienna State Opera in productions like "Die Zauberflöte" and "Von der Liebe Tod." His talent was first recognized nationally when he reached the finals of the 2021 TV talent show "Starmania," which propelled him into the spotlight.
JJ’s winning entry, "Wasted Love," showcased his ability to merge soaring countertenor vocals with pulsating techno beats, creating a sound that resonated with both the jury and the public. After accepting the microphone-shaped trophy, he expressed his disbelief, stating, “This is beyond my wildest dreams. It’s crazy.”
The Message Behind "Wasted Love"
"Wasted Love" earned an impressive 436 points, with 258 from juries and 178 from televoters. At a post-victory press conference, JJ emphasized the song’s message: “In my song, I was talking about how love is wasted, but love wins. Spread love, forget hate; love is the strongest force.” This powerful sentiment resonated deeply with audiences, further enhancing the song’s appeal.
Eurovision 2025 featured a rich tapestry of performances from 26 countries, showcasing linguistic diversity with songs performed in 20 languages, including Maltese, Icelandic, and Albanian. The event highlighted the eclectic nature of contemporary music, with acts ranging from Lithuania’s grunge-rock band Katarsis to Ukraine’s prog-rock group Ziferblat.
JJ’s Artistic Evolution
JJ’s path to Eurovision was paved with dedication and hard work. After returning to Vienna, he pursued formal training in classical music, eventually joining the Vienna State Opera. His performances in productions like "Tschick" demonstrated his ability to blend classical precision with modern flair, a skill that defined "Wasted Love."
Following his victory, JJ expressed gratitude to his team and fans, stating, “It’s out of this world.” He also revealed plans for an EP and songwriting collaborations, humorously mentioning that he might cancel a planned week off to celebrate. Additionally, he expressed hopes to co-host the 2026 contest in Vienna alongside Conchita Wurst, further intertwining their legacies.
A New Era for Austria
JJ’s win not only makes him Austria’s first half-Filipino champion but also sets the stage for the country to host Eurovision’s 70th anniversary in 2026. His victory, supported by broadcaster ORF, signifies a strategic shift toward genre innovation, as noted by Eurovision historian Dean Vuletic. This win opens new avenues for artistic expression within the competition, encouraging future entrants to explore diverse musical styles.
As Austria celebrates this historic achievement, JJ’s journey serves as an inspiring testament to the power of blending cultures and genres. His success at Eurovision 2025 is not just a personal triumph but a celebration of love, creativity, and the unifying power of music.
