John Lydon's Eurovision bid has failed

Virgin Radio

5 Feb 2023, 09:02

Public Image Ltd. lose out to Wild Youth in their bid to represent Ireland.

Public Image Ltd., the legendary post-punk band fronted by former Sex Pistols singer John Lydon, have failed in their bid to represent Ireland at Eurovision 2023.

Lydon elected to represent Ireland as he holds a passport for the country. His mother is originally from County Cork, while his father hails from Galway. 

PiL faced off against K Muni & ND, Leila Jane, Wild Youth, Connolly and ADGY, in an event televised live last Friday (February 3rd) on Ireland's Late Late Show on the channel RTE.

Wild Youth, with their song 'We Are One', were chosen as the winners on the night by a combination of a public vote, an international jury and a national jury.

They will represent Ireland at the 67th annual Eurovision Song Contest in Liverpool in May.

Public Image Ltd. performed their song 'Hawaii', described as a love letter to Lydon's wife Nora, who is living with Alzheimer’s. 

It's a beautiful thing.

"[The song] is dedicated to everyone going through tough times on the journey of life, with the person they care for the most," said Lydon of the number, a haunting torch ballad, before the broadcast. "It’s also a message of hope that ultimately love conquers all."

The judges in the RTE studio shared their thoughts after Public Image Ltd's performance.

Celine Byrne said the song "touched" her heart. She added, "I have nothing but respect for him as a musician, but I don't know if it is a song for Eurovision."

"It is very important to speak about these things. It's real life. I really want to commend him on that performance," Gemma Bradley added.

And judging duo Jedward said, "A delicate song like this might stand out in Eurovision. I'm not sure if it is a song for Eurovision", but really, what do they know?

The final of the 67th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest will take place on May 9th.

Speaking after their victory was announced, Wild Youth's singer Conor O'Donohoe said, "I'm shaking, we hope we can do the best job".

He and his bandmates have previously supported Lewis Capaldi, Niall Horan and The Script on tour.

Good luck Wild Youth!