Music has the power to move people, to make them sit up and listen. It can make you cry, laugh, smile or make you want to change the world. When we listen to the lyrics of songs we can usually find a message the artist is trying to convey.
That was when I
realised that music is the most profound, magical form of communication there
is. - Lesley Garrett
This is our weekly instalment of inspiring Sunday Songs, and what a weekend it has been for music bringing people together. After World War 2 the Eurovision Song contest was started to bring unity to the continent of Europe. Since 1956 the competition has been held each year and celebrates the diversity and culture of the countries within Europe, with people being brought together with music.
Last night Austria's entry won the competition but it was more than just a win for the country, it was a win for the LGBT community also. Conchita Wurst who sang the Austrian song Rise Like A Phoenix has been at the centre of a media storm around the world. There has been some controversy in a handful of countries over the bearded drag queen performing, but the majority of Europe showed their support and made her this years winner.
"This night is dedicated to everyone who believes in a future of peace and
freedom. You know who you are - we are unity and we are unstoppable ... I dream of a world where we don't have to talk about unnecessary things like
sexuality, who you love. I felt like tonight Europe showed that we are a
community of respect and tolerance," Conchita Wurst
Conchita Wurst - Rise Like a Phoenix
Damon Albarn & Bobby Womack - The Bravest Man in the Universe
Baz Lurhman - Sunscreen Song
Pink - Perfect
Katy Perry - Roar
Last night Britain's got Talent also had a very special act. Bars and Melody are two young boys who wrote and sang an anti-bullying song, it really is quite heart-warming.
