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Norway's 3-time Eurovision participant Jahn Teigen passes away

25 February 2020 at 14:31 CET
Jahn Teigen performing 'Do Re Mi' in 1983 NRK
Norwegian singer and legend Jahn Teigen has died at Ystad Hospital, Sweden, at age 70. Jahn famously participated in Melodi Grand Prix - the Norwegian national selection for the Eurovision Song Contest - no less than 16 times, according to public broadcaster NRK. He went on to win the competition 4 times and represented Norway 3 times at the Eurovision Song Contest; in 1978, 1982 and 1983.

Mil Etter Mil endeared Jahn throughout Europe when his entry came last at the Eurovision Song Contest 1978 in Paris. He became the first contestant to get “nul points” (zero points) under the voting system that is still in place today. The infamous result proved fruitful as he became famous in Norway and Mil Etter Mil became a big hit in the Scandinavian country.

Executive Supervisor of the Eurovision Song Contest Jon Ola Sand: “Jahn was a truly beloved and respected composer and artist. Over his 5-decade long career he entertained millions not just in Norway but across Europe, in part due to his multiple appearances in the Eurovision Song Contest. I was fortunate to work with him on many occasions and it was always an absolute pleasure. He was a kind and generous man and will be much missed.”

Participating just once at the Eurovision Song Contest wasn't enough for Jahn. He tried his luck again in 1982 in Harrogate where he performed Adieu, together with Anita Skorgan. The duo received 40 points and ended up in 12th place.

Jahn Teigen performing 'Do Re Mi' in 1983 NRK

A year later, he participated again as a solo artist during the Eurovision Song Contest 1983 in Munich, where he reached his best placement of all 3 participations: Jahn made the top 10 with the song Do Re Mi, receiving 53 points.