Stay up to date with notifications from The Independent

Notifications can be managed in browser preferences.

‘So much better’: Eurovision fans praise Sam Ryder’s announcement as 2022 UK entry

‘It’s an earworm you don’t expect,’ reasoned one fan

Nicole Vassell
Thursday 10 March 2022 11:29 GMT
Comments
Eurovision: Netta performs Toy

Your support helps us to tell the story

From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.

At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.

The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.

Your support makes all the difference.

Eurovision fans have expressed their excitement after TikTok star Sam Ryder was announced as the UK’s entry for the 2022 competition.

The singer-songwriter will perform his track “Space, Man!” at the finals in Turin, Italy in May.

The news was revealed by Greg James live on BBC Radio 1 on Thursday (10 March).

“Let’s just see it as a fresh start,” said the presenter, who encouraged listeners to support Ryder. “I truly believe in him.”

As well as James, fans of the song contest have shared their positive views about the decision on social media.

“YEEEEESSSSS!!!!!!!!!” began one person’s tweet. “@SamRyderMusic repping the UK for #Eurovision2022 is the news I needed today. This is the high risk, high reward entry we have needed for many years.”

“It's soooooo much better than previous songs,” another fan shared on the social media platform. “Gotta get perfect staging for this. Wish it all the best, wish I could vote for it.”

Another person’s praised the song itself: “It’s an earworm you don’t expect but I’m now getting behind Sam Ryder!”

Others shared their hopes for the song, as well as for Ryder winning over Eurovision voters with his personality.

One wrote: “British folks are underestimating just how likeable and charismatic @SamRyderMusic is! And yes, it’s not super-uptempo, but it is considerably more energetic than the previous entries from the UK. This is a complete package.”

However, not all fans are as convinced that Ryder’s talent, and the song, will be enough to secure a win for the UK.

Amazon Music logo

Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music

Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)

Sign up
Amazon Music logo

Enjoy unlimited access to 100 million ad-free songs and podcasts with Amazon Music

Sign up now for a 4 month free trial (3 months for non-Prime members)

Sign up

Referring to the low placement of UK entries in recent years, one Twitter user said: “Just been looking at him. 12 million followers on TikTok and I bet we still come last.”

James Newman, the UK’s entry for the 2021 Eurovision Song Contest, scored nul points. It marked the fifth time the country finished in last place.

Join our commenting forum

Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies

Comments

Thank you for registering

Please refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in