Switzerland’s Nemo has made history as the first non-binary artist to win the Eurovision Song Contest after clinching the 2024 title.
The 68th edition of Eurovision saw 37 countries vying for the prestigious music accolade, with Nemo’s song “The Code” not only scoring an impressive 591 points but also struck a chord with its poignant narrative about self-identity and acceptance, resonating deeply across borders.
The lyrics, “This story is my truth, I went to hell and back to find myself on track, I broke the code,” and “Somewhere between the zeroes and the ones / That’s where I found my kingdom come,” highlight the personal yet universal journey of self-discovery.
Speaking to AP before the semi-final, Nemo shared the profound experience of representing non-binary individuals on one of the most significant musical stages in the world. Their victory is not just a win for Switzerland but a monumental achievement for LGBTQ+ visibility and advocacy, showcasing the evolving inclusivity of Eurovision.
Ireland’s Bambie Thug, another non-binary artist, also featured prominently in this year’s competition, advancing to the finals and celebrating trans-Pride with their performance and attire. Bambie Thug’s energetic “ouija-pop” track, “Doomsday Blue,” earned a commendable 278 points.
The competition’s results included other standout performances, with Croatia’s festive anthem “Rim Tim Tagi Dim” taking second place. Meanwhile, the UK’s Olly Alexander, despite a spirited show with “Dizzy”, ended in 18th position.
In their victory speech, Nemo expressed hope that Eurovision continues to promote peace and dignity for all, a sentiment that echoed throughout the event as it spotlighted diverse musical expressions and stories.
Eurovision 2024 will be remembered for its musical spectacle and as a significant milestone in championing gender diversity, with Nemo leading as Eurovision’s first non-binary victor.
