How has Eurovision changed over the years?

The Eurovision Song Contest is an annual international song competition that has been broadcast since 1956. The contest is known for its elaborate performances, unique songs, and over-the-top costumes, and has become an important cultural event for Europe and beyond.

Over the years, Eurovision has undergone many changes. One of the most significant changes is the number of participating countries, which has increased from seven in the first contest to over 40 in recent years. In addition, the rules and format of the competition have been modified several times to adapt to the changing musical landscape and audience preferences.

One of the most notable changes is the introduction of televoting, which began in 1997. This allowed viewers at home to vote for their favorite songs, adding an interactive element to the competition. The introduction of televoting also led to more strategic voting, as countries often vote for their neighbors or allies.

The scoring system has also changed over the years. In the early years of the competition, each country would award a single point to their favorite song. This was later changed to a system in which each country would award points based on a sliding scale, with 12 points going to the favorite song, 10 points to the second favorite, and so on.

Another major change in recent years has been the emphasis on spectacle and showmanship. Many of the performances are now elaborate productions with elaborate sets, costumes, and choreography. In addition, the competition has also become more inclusive, with the inclusion of more diverse musical styles and performers.