Melodifestivalen Heat 5 and the final qualifier of 2025 were a thrilling and diverse showcase of talent, as Sweden’s beloved national selection for Eurovision reached a fever pitch. Held on March 1, the event, hosted at Husqvarna Garden in Jönköping, brought us a blend of pop, rock, heartfelt ballads, and all the glitter that makes this show so captivating. From the electrifying performances to the surprise results, this night did not disappoint.
The show kicked off with Arvingarna, the Swedish folk band that brought us the catchy and high-energy tune "Ring Baby Ring." Their performance was a true spectacle, filled with flashing lights, pyrotechnics, and an infectious energy that instantly set the tone for the evening. It was a perfect Melodifestivalen opener, full of fun and vibrant vibes. Lead singer Casper’s stage presence was undeniable, and the crowd couldn’t help but get swept up in the upbeat track. With their lively performance, it was no surprise they secured a spot in the Grand Final.
Following them was Arwin with the tender ballad “This Dream of Mine.” The performance was emotionally charged, with Arwin delivering a heartfelt rendition of the song. While the vocals were strong, the performance didn’t have the same impact as some of the more theatrical acts, and Arwin finished fourth. Despite this, it was a solid showing, and the sincerity of the performance was appreciated by many.
Saga Ludvigsson took the stage next with "Hate You So Much," and it was clear she wasn’t here to play it safe. Her performance was dripping with attitude, power, and conviction. The song was a perfect showcase for her vocal abilities, and her commanding stage presence made her one of the standout acts of the night. The song's fierce energy propelled her straight to the Grand Final, where she’ll undoubtedly continue to captivate the audience with her unique style.
Next up was Victoria Silvstedt, who brought the glamour with her track "Love It!" She served up a visual feast with sparkling costumes, captivating choreography, and an overall shiny presentation. However, despite the glitz and glam, her vocals weren’t as strong, and the performance didn’t quite resonate with the audience as much as it should have. Victoria finished in fifth place, not quite making the cut for the Grand Final.
Then came Vilhelm Buchaus with “I’m Yours,” a song that was heartfelt and sincere. Vilhelm’s performance was sweet, and while his voice was solid, the song itself lacked the hook to propel it further in the competition. He finished in third place, just missing out on the top two spots needed to secure a place in the final.
Finally, Scarlet delivered a high-energy rock performance with their track "Sweet N' Psycho." It was a bold, intense number that brought a refreshing edge to the show. Scarlet's vibrant stage presence and edgy vibe made them a favorite, and they earned their spot in the Grand Final with ease. Their performance was a reminder that Melodifestivalen isn’t just about pop—it’s about embracing a variety of genres and sounds, and Scarlet brought a much-needed burst of rock to the evening.
After the main show, the final qualification round, or Finalkvalet, took place to determine which additional acts would join the Grand Final. The third-place finishers from the previous heats competed in this round, and it was a tense moment for everyone involved. In the end, Dolly Style with "Yihaa" secured the highest combined vote and earned a place in the Grand Final. They’ve been a fan favorite for years, and their win here wasn’t a huge surprise. Meira Omar followed closely behind with "Hush Hush" and also secured a spot in the final.
Overall, Melodifestivalen Heat 5 and the Finalkvalet gave us a night full of surprises, energetic performances, and diverse music. With a mix of ballads, rock, pop, and everything in between, the night showcased the best of Sweden's musical talent. As we head into the Grand Final, there’s no doubt that this year’s competition will be one to remember!
Bring on Eurovision 2025!