Road to Basel: Estonia
Road to Basel: Estonia: As the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel approaches, we continue our daily spotlight on this year’s contestants. Today, we focus on Estonia.
Tommy Cash
Tommy Cash, born Tomas Tammemets on November 18, 1991, in Tallinn, Estonia, is a multifaceted artist known for his work as a rapper, singer, dancer, and visual artist. Emerging on the music scene in 2012, he has gained recognition for his provocative style and avant-garde music videos. Cash’s unique blend of hip hop and experimental sounds, coupled with his distinctive aesthetic, has garnered him a significant following both in Estonia and internationally. ​
“Espresso Macchiato” (What does AI say)
His Eurovision entry, “Espresso Macchiato,” is a track performed in both Italian and English. The song showcases Cash’s signature style, blending catchy rhythms with playful lyrics. Upon its release, “Espresso Macchiato” quickly gained attention, amassing millions of views on YouTube and streams on various music platforms. ​
National Selection Process
Estonia selected its Eurovision 2025 representative through the national competition Eesti Laul 2025. The final took place on February 15, 2025, at the Unibet Arena in Tallinn. Hosted by Eda-Ines Etti and Karl “Korea” Kivastik, the event featured 16 finalists. Tommy Cash’s performance of “Espresso Macchiato” captivated both the jury and the public, leading him to win the competition and earn the opportunity to represent Estonia in Basel.
- Tommy Cash, “Espresso Macchiato”
- An-Marlen, “KĂĽlm“
- Janek, “Frozen“
- Andrei Zevakin featuring Karita, “Ma ei tea sind“
- Felin, “Solo Anthem”
- Ant, “Tomorrow Never Comes“
- gem98, “Psycho“
- Elysa, “The Last To Know“
- Minimal Wind, “Armageddon“
- Frants Tikerpuu, “Trouble“
- Stereo Terror, “Prty Till the End of the World“
- Johanna Elise, “Eyes Don’t Lie“
- Anna Sahlene, “Love Me Low“
- Marta Lotta, “Tantsin Veel“
- Räpina Jack feat. Kaisa Ling, “Tule“
- Tuuli Rand, “REM“
Controversy Surrounding “Espresso Macchiato”
Following its selection, “Espresso Macchiato” sparked controversy, particularly in Italy. The Italian consumer association Codacons appealed to the European Broadcasting Union (EBU) to bar the song from the competition, arguing that it insults Italians. Despite the backlash, many Italians expressed amusement and support for the song on social media. ​
Estonia in the Eurovision Song Contest
Estonia has participated in the Eurovision Song Contest since 1994 and secured its only victory in 2001 with “Everybody” performed by Tanel Padar, Dave Benton, and 2XL. Another top-3 songs was “Runaway” by Sahlene. She became 3rd. She also participated in the national final this year. Over the years, Estonia has showcased a diverse range of musical styles, often earning praise for its innovative and bold entries. The country’s commitment to promoting its artists on the international stage remains steadfast, with Eesti Laul serving as a platform for both established and emerging talents.
Anna Sahlene​
A Random Estonian Entry
Reflecting on Estonia’s Eurovision history, random.org chose JĂĽri Pootsman’s “Play”. The song was the 2016 entry, and did not reach the final. When the press asked JĂĽri to smile, he replied “I don’t know how to smile”.
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Betting Odds
As of now, Tommy Cash’s “Espresso Macchiato” is doing pretty well in the betting odds. The song is 7th in order to win the contest. In the odds for semifinal one it is 2nd. That makes Estonia a very likely qualifier. It might have a good score in that final as well. Let’s wait and see.
We eagerly await the Eurovision Song Contest in Basel and look forward to witnessing Tommy Cash’s performance on the grand stage.
