Keiino aren’t your average band (Picture: Eurovision)

The Eurovision Song Contest always has an assortment of earworms that are distinctly Eurovision – and this year’s Norwegian entry is carrying on that grand tradition.

Keiino are representing Norway with their super-catchy song Spirit In The Sky, which is already a favourite amongst Eurovision fans.

But while the melody is classic Eurovision, the message of acceptance and equal rights is just as fitting with the contest – especially when you consider Keiino isn’t your average band.

Speaking to Metro.co.uk at the London Eurovision Party, singer Tom Hugo said: ‘I’m very honoured and moved that the Norwegian people voted us to represent them. Up until a few decades ago, it would be unheard of that the Norwegian people would vote for a gay guy, a Sami guy and a woman – well, maybe a woman would be accepted.




‘We’re not the typical group. It’s amazing seeing the world change for the better, and being more inclusive.’

Keiino is made up of Tom, 39, who is proudly gay, Sami rapper Fred Buljo, 31, and singer Alexandra Rotan, 22 – and they’re bringing something rather unique to the Tel Aviv stage.

When we asked what we can expect from their staging, Alexandra said: ‘It’s gonna be an Arctic version of The Lion King.’

Which, let’s face it, sounds epic.

A whopping 186 million people tuned into the 2018 Eurovision Song Contest, but that doesn’t phase Keiino, with Fred quipping: ‘Well, we don’t have to see them, it’s a normal Keiino show for us.’

Alexandra said: ‘What’s important to us is to get our message across, of acceptance and being who you are, in front of millions of people. So that’s what we’re going to do, and the rest of what happens is a bonus.’

Tom added: ‘Our first goal is to get to the finals. If we qualify, that’s all we can hope for, and then it’s up to Europe.’

Keiino will compete in the second semi-final on 16 April, before hopefully making the grand final on 18 May.

Got a showbiz story? If you've got a celebrity story, video or pictures get in touch with the Metro.co.uk entertainment team by emailing us celebtips@metro.co.uk, calling 020 3615 2145 or by visiting our Submit Stuff page - we'd love to hear from you.

MORE: Olivia Colman jumped at the opportunity to play Godmother in Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag

MORE: Nipsey Hussle’s family kindly ‘reject’ Reggie Bush’s $10,000 donation and fan fundraisers for rapper’s kids