This Year's Marcel Bezençon Awards Go to France, Cyprus, and Bulgaria

In addition to the overall and most well known victory price of the Eurovision Song Contest decided by the viewers at home and music industry professional from each participating country, three more awards are officially awarded to outstanding musical acts. The Marcel Bezençon Awards, named after the founder of the contest, was first handed out in 2002 in Tallinn. Initiated by Christer Björkman (Sweden's representative in Eurovision, 1992) and Richard Herrey (member of the Herreys, 1984 Eurovision winner from Sweden), awards are granted in three categories - the Press Award, Artistic Award, and Composer Award. Awards are traditionally handed out backstage, shortly before the Grand Final. Here are this year's winners.

Press Award

The press award is give to the best entry voted for by the accredited media. This year it was awarded to France with Madame Monsieur and their entry Mercy. The song explored a story about a girl named Mercy who was born to Nigerian refugees on a boat, travelling across the Mediterranean Sea in the midst of the European migrant crisis. Overall the act finished on the 13th position at the Grand Final.

Artistic Award

The artistic award is presented to the best artist voted for by the commentators. This year's award went to Cyprus's representative Eleni Foureira, and her entry Fuego. The catchy song and flawless performance earned 2nd position as part of the Grand Final.

Composer Award

Composer award is granted by a jury consisting of the participating composers who vote for the most original composition. This year the award went to Bulgaria's entry Bones, performed by Equinox.

Don't forget to check out a list of former winners at Eurovision.TV

Valev Laube

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