Introduction
“Love Will Set You Free” is a heartfelt ballad performed by veteran British singer Engelbert Humperdinck as the United Kingdom’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest in 2012. The song was unveiled by the BBC on March 19, 2012, and marked a significant moment in both Humperdinck’s illustrious career and the UK’s participation in the renowned competition.
Engelbert Humperdinck, born Arnold George Dorsey in 1936, had already established himself as a prominent figure in the music industry with a career spanning over four decades and over 150 million records sold worldwide. His selection as the UK’s representative was a departure from the trend of younger artists, bringing a seasoned performer to the Eurovision stage.
The song was penned by acclaimed songwriters Martin Terefe and Sacha Skarbek. Terefe, a Grammy Award-winning producer, and Skarbek, an Ivor Novello Award recipient known for co-writing James Blunt’s “You’re Beautiful” and Lana Del Rey’s “Born to Die,” crafted a composition that blends a gentle Spanish guitar with melancholic strings, creating a poignant backdrop for Humperdinck’s rich vocals. The lyrics explore themes of enduring love and emotional liberation, resonating with a broad audience.
Humperdinck expressed his enthusiasm for the track, stating, “I have my eyes on the prize with my song ‘Love Will Set You Free.’ I’m very proud of the song and with the nation behind me, I feel ready and look forward to the rollercoaster ride that is Eurovision.” The performance was further enhanced by the choreography of Arlene Phillips, a former judge on “Strictly Come Dancing,” adding a visual elegance to the heartfelt rendition.
Despite the anticipation and Humperdinck’s seasoned artistry, the song faced stiff competition at the Eurovision finals held in Baku, Azerbaijan, on May 26, 2012. Performing first on the night, “Love Will Set You Free” ultimately finished 25th out of 26 entries, garnering 12 points. The outcome, while disappointing in terms of ranking, did not diminish the song’s artistic merit and the respect garnered by Humperdinck’s heartfelt performance.
“Love Will Set You Free” remains a testament to Engelbert Humperdinck’s enduring talent and the UK’s commitment to showcasing diverse musical artistry on the Eurovision stage.
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