Von Ryan L. Relos

Basel | May 18, 2025 -Austria has taken home the Eurovision Song Contest 2025 crown, thanks to a mesmerizing performance by JJ (Johannes Pietsch), a 24-year-old countertenor with a powerful voice and a unique identity. With the emotional song “Wasted Love”, JJ captivated both juries and audiences, securing 436 points in total — topping the jury vote and placing high in the public vote.

But what has sparked even more conversation than Austria’s first win since 2014 is the background of its new Eurovision star. JJ, who describes himself as “half-Filipino, half-Austrian, 100% artist,” proudly represents a new generation of multicultural Europeans making waves on the global stage. On the other hand, Israel’s Yuval Raphael finished second with the song “New Day Will Rise,” garnering 357 points. Despite winning the public vote, Israel’s entry was placed 15th by the jury, which prevented it from overtaking Austria.

“This is not just a victory for Austria, it’s a celebration of diversity and the beauty of blending cultures,” JJ said in his post-victory interview. “I carry my Filipino roots with pride — they are part of my voice, my soul, and my story.”

JJ’s mother hails from Cebu in the Philippines, and his upbringing was enriched by Filipino traditions and music. During the press conference following his win, he even thanked his “Lola and Lolo” (Grandparents) for instilling in him the discipline and passion that brought him to the Eurovision stage. Filipino communities across Europe and the Philippines have flooded social media with support, hailing him as “the first half-Filipino to win Eurovision” and a “symbol of Filipino talent on the global stage.” 

“Wasted Love,” JJ’s winning song, is a modern classical ballad with orchestral undertones and deeply emotional lyrics. The performance was stripped down but deeply moving, showcasing his rare countertenor voice — a vocal style seldom seen at Eurovision. Judges praised its elegance, while viewers were struck by its sincerity.

“It was raw, authentic, and unforgettable,” said Swedish jury member Lina Olofsson. “A performance like that reminds us why Eurovision matters.”

With this win, Austria will host the Eurovision Song Contest 2026, likely in Vienna, and JJ has already announced plans for a European tour, with stops in Manila, Rome, and Berlin.

“This is just the beginning,” he said. “I want to bring this music to every heart that has ever felt unheard.”

JJ’s win is more than a musical triumph — it’s a statement about identity, representation, and the unifying power of music. In a divided world, his voice — shaped by both Austrian training and Filipino soul — reminds us what harmony truly means.