Free European Song Contest
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The Free European Song Contest (commonly abbreviated FESC) is a televised song competition that aired on the German channel ProSieben. The show was created by Stefan Raab, a producer and presenter known for his work on German music competitions.
The format is based on the Eurovision Song Contest: various artists each represent a European country, after which original songs are performed. However, the competition is not organized by the European Broadcasting Union and has no official connection to Eurovision. Voting was conducted by television viewers, without the country-by-country voting rules of Eurovision.
Origins and rationale
The first edition took place in 2020, following the cancellation of that year's Eurovision Song Contest due to the COVID-19 pandemic. ProSieben presented FESC as an alternative programme for viewers during the usual song contest season. The show was broadcast without a live studio audience, in line with health restrictions in place at the time.
Contest format
Participants are mostly people living in or working in Germany but with a connection to the country they represent—for example, through origin, language, or profession. Each performer sings their song once, and results are determined by viewer votes. Songs are performed in various languages with no language restriction.
Editions
Two consecutive editions were held, in 2020 and 2021. The first edition was won by artist Nico Santos, representing Spain. After 2021, the show was not continued annually, and Eurovision returned to its regular schedule.