Who’s coming next?: Previewing Finland’s UMK 2026

Who’s coming next?: Previewing Finland’s UMK 2026

Author: JOY 94.9 - LGBTI, LGBTIQA+, LGBTQIA+, LGBT, LGBTQ, LGB, Gay, Lesbian, Trans, Intersex, Queer Podcasts for all our Rainbow Communities February 21, 2026 Duration: 53:59

It’s a national final that we’ve become big fans of and yet again, Finland isn’t here to disappoint. Uuden Musiikin Kilpailu is back for another year and we’re ready to work out who will be following in Erika Vikman’s saucy footsteps in Vienna.

Michael is joined by Ethan, a voice who would be familiar if you’re a fan of the Eurovision Top 100, to dive into UMK. While there are seven big songs, there are two currently in contention. Do you agree?

Plus, hear the latest banger (and first English language song) from one of our 2025 favourites – Erika Vikman.

You can enjoy UMK (and Erika’s new song) at 8pm CET on Saturday 28 February (or the polite time of 6am on Sunday 1 March if you’re in Melbourne) via Yle Areena. You might even want to switch over to the English commentary!

In this episode:

  • Hear Michael go gutter(al)
  • Wonder if the dentist will make an appearance
  • Work out when you’ll schedule your toilet break

Get involved

Follow JOYEurovision across Facebook, Instagram, Threads, TikTok, Bluesky and X at linktr.ee/joy_eurovision

Not in Australia? Grab this podcast via Spotify Podcasts.

Playlist

Erika Vikman – FATHER (I Will Never Confess)

Komiat – Lululai

Etta – Million Dollar Smile

KIKI – Rakkaudenkipee [The pain of love]

Antti Paalanen – Takatukka [Mullet]

CHACHI – Cherry Cake

Sinikka Monte – Ready To Leave

Linda Lampenius & Pete Parkkonen – Liekinheitin [Flamethrower]

The post Who’s coming next?: Previewing Finland’s UMK 2026 appeared first on JOY Eurovision.


There's a particular kind of glitter that doesn't wash off for months, and a specific enthusiasm that arrives every spring. JOY Eurovision lives in that space year-round. More than just a recap show when the contest lights up our screens, this podcast dives deep into the music, the politics, and the sheer spectacle that makes Eurovision a global phenomenon for the LGBTIQA+ communities and allies who cherish it. You'll hear from the team at JOY 94.9 as they break down the latest news, analyze the competing entries with a keen ear, and share the unique perspectives that come from a rainbow community for whom Eurovision has always felt like a home. Expect thoughtful commentary, lively debates, and interviews with people who are just as passionate about the contest's history and its future. It’s for anyone who knows the lyrics to a losing entry from 2007, who debates the merits of a key change, and who believes the song contest is a vibrant, evolving celebration of diversity and pop culture. Tune in to find your people and get the full story behind the performances.
Author: Language: en-us Episodes: 50

JOY Eurovision
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