In 2005, news were scarce concerning Portugal's entry. There had been no announcement for any public national final, but it had been made clear that the winner of Operação Triunfo would not represent Portugal in Kyiv.
In the end an internal selection was made, and the song "Amar" was presented to the audience at a rather late stage.
Performed by temporary duo 2B - consisting of Luciana Abreu and Rui Drumond (both of talent show fame) - it sounded a lot more modern than anything Portugal had sent into competition for many years. Catchy, driven by drum beats and with a chorus in English that was easy to sing along with, it looked like the Portuguese entry could stand a chance of qualification.
2B - Amar (Portugal 2005 preview)
In Kyiv, however, the whole thing fell to pieces with a real let-down of a presentation where a busy dance routine got in the way of the singing. Also, the duet seemed to lack in balance between Luciana and Rui.
Despite scoring no less than three 12-pointers, "Amar" ended in 17th place and did not qualify for the final.
But now everything was pointing in the right direction. Even Portugal could shake up a pop song if needed.
And Rui Drumond is not a bad performer at all. He'd be very welcome back to Eurovision with a more polished performance and a number that allows him more personal space.
2B - Amar (Portugal 2005)
i still llove this entry! a shame that was killed on stage with several problems during the performance
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