Another handsome male soloist sporting a pair of cracking expressive eyebrows will hit the stage for the Dutch in Stockholm. Youngster Douwe Bob’s “Slow Down” is an unexpected bit of faux-country which will stand out for its originality. In 2014 The Common Linnet’s almost stole The Netherlands an unlikely win with their soft Country stylings and Douwe Bob’s entry is not dissimilar to that in tone.
This easily stands out from the other 17 entries in this Semi Final and Mr Bob appears to be riding the same Dark Horse that The Netherlands found themselves on in 2014. No sideshows here. This Bob is the real deal.
Watch Douwe Bob's official video for 'Slow Down':
Four Questions with Douwe Bob
What are the three most interesting aspects about your entry?
- The message in the lyrics has a deep personal meaning; it's a protest song against society's demands on people these days. It seems everybody has too little time for too many things. And so do I. Sometimes it's necessary to sit back and see what is really important.
- In the context of the Eurovision Song Contest, I feel a relatively understated song with a clear, almost spiritual message, could bring people together. I set out to write something that resonates internationally and has depth to it, even it's hidden a little.
- It was written in three countries: Portugal, Spain and Sweden. And to be honest, it's pretty clear to me which parts of the song were written where.
What are the three most impressive facts about you?
- I have a bar in my own home where I host concerts for friends and sometimes fans
- I love to ride horses and will search for the best horse riding places around Stockholm to relax
- In my spare time I cut my friends' hair
Do you have a (lucky) routine before you go on stage?
The band all hug each other
Why is the Eurovision Song Contest important for you?
I write songs and this is the biggest stage for those songs. Of course I am in!
