Eurovision Song Contest 1981 — 26th edition of the Eurovision Song Contest
The 26th Eurovision Song Contest, won by Bucks Fizz for the UK, is remembered for one of the contest's most iconic stage performances.
Key Facts
- Edition
- 26th Eurovision Song Contest
- Date
- 4 April 1981
- Winning song
- "Making Your Mind Up" by Bucks Fizz (UK)
- Participating countries
- 20 countries
- Contest debut
- Cyprus made their first appearance
- Last place
- Norway, with nul points (third time)
By the Numbers
Location
Cause → Event → Consequence
Ireland's Johnny Logan won the 1980 Eurovision Song Contest with 'What's Another Year', obligating Irish broadcaster RTÉ to host the following year's contest. RTÉ organised the event at the RDS Simmonscourt in Dublin, with twenty broadcasters confirming participation, equalling the 1978 record.
On 4 April 1981, the Eurovision Song Contest was held in Dublin, presented by Doireann Ní Bhriain. Cyprus debuted, while Israel and Yugoslavia returned after absences. The United Kingdom's Bucks Fizz performed 'Making Your Mind Up', including a routine where the male members ripped skirts off the female members to reveal mini-skirts. Germany finished second and France third.
Bucks Fizz's victory launched a highly successful international career for the group. Their skirt-ripping routine became one of the most recognised moments in Eurovision history. Norway finished last with nul points for the third time, while Cyprus's debut expanded the contest's geographic reach.
Work
Eurovision Song Contest 1981
Bucks Fizz's skirt-ripping performance became one of Eurovision's defining moments and launched the group's international career.