Bambie Thug
Eurovision is an eagerly anticipated event each year, drawing the attention of many fans. Naturally, enthusiasts eagerly await the announcement of each country’s representatives. This year’s lineup has been particularly intriguing. While this article will not delve into every contestant, one has captured considerable online interest. Allow me to introduce Bambie Thug, the musician chosen to represent Ireland at this year’s Eurovision.
Despite being relatively new to the music scene, Bambie Thug has managed to attract attention over the past few years. Hailing from Cork, their early life was steeped in music and dance influences. Initially trained as a ballet dancer, they later pursued studies in dance in London, only to transition to musical theatre following an injury. However, their journey has been marked by challenges. Dealing with toxic relationships, heartbreak, and addiction, Bambie Thug found solace in creating music drawn from their personal experiences. It was not until 2020 that they began producing their own music. Even in the early stages of their career, they faced controversies and scandals, such as the uncensored release of the music video for their debut single, “Birthday,” on adult websites, and the negative reception of themes like addiction and the occult. Despite the backlash, Bambie Thug remained undeterred by others’ opinions, steadfast in their commitment to their craft.
Before coming out, they revealed that they were clinging to a mainstream “bubble gum” sound, conforming to expectations. However, upon embracing their non-binary identity, they embarked on a journey to liberate themselves from restrictive labels, striving to craft their own unique identity. Rejecting the confines of a single genre, they blend elements from avant-garde, hyper-punk, and electro-pop, pioneering their own distinctive category — what they have dubbed “ouija-pop.” Their music continues to explore themes such as addiction, trauma, witchcraft, magic, and the occult, but with a newfound emphasis on spreading positivity, courage, and individuality. Bambie Thug has stressed their desire to serve as a beacon for their audience, rather than glorifying harmful behaviors like addiction. Instead, they aim to discourage such actions and promote healthy behavior. “We need to parade healthy behavior. It’s important if we are going to be breaking [through] so that younger kids and teens listening to our music, and looking up to us, aren’t fed this negative behavior,” they expressed in an interview with GayTimes.
Bambie Thug in the music video for ‘Tsunami’. Photo by Sebastian Garraway.
As a member of the emerging wave of alternative LGBTQ+ artists, they express their desire to produce music that was absent during their own upbringing. They find empowerment in contributing to the vibrant queer movement and recognize the significance of offering relatable voices and resonant music for greater self-expression. They firmly believe that the world is in dire need of more queer voices to foster inclusivity and diversity in the music industry.
In April 2023, Bambie Thug released their first single of the year, “Egregore,” which gained even more attention. Drawing inspiration from the occult concept of a non-physical entity fueled by collective energy, the song delves into the glamorization of self-destructive behaviors prevalent in both the music industry and society at large. Despite their outspoken nature, Bambie Thug found themselves continually pressured to conform to societal molds. “Egregore” serves as their rebellion against this societal pressure, a declaration of defiance against past self-destructive tendencies. Reflecting on their journey, Bambie Thug shared their personal struggles with self-worth and acceptance: “I didn’t believe I deserved good love, nourishment, or success. I believed that I deserved to be treated badly, that I should starve myself and watch from the sidelines. I became a people pleaser. ‘Egregore’ is my way of breaking away from that: ‘I wanna love myself, be better than I am.’ I am finally choosing radical self-love and turning the volume down on the neggy TED Talk in my head,” they said to Kerrang!. Their persona draws from a gender-bending interpretation of the devilish character HIM from The Powerpuff Girls, aligning perfectly with their image. Embracing a character unapologetically camp and infused with artistic and high-fashion elements, Bambie Thug embodies their unique and authentic self-expression.
Bambie Thug in the music video for ‘Egregore’. Photo by Luke Nugent.
Bambie Thug’s Eurovision entry, “Doomsday Blue,” has sparked a range of reactions, from praise for its boldness and unconventional performance to controversy. Described as “an electro-metal breakdown,” the song was released in late 2023 and later selected as Ireland’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2024. Blending elements of alternative rock, pop, and jazz, it has been praised for its explosive yet soulful nature, delving into themes of love, heartbreak, and pain. However, the song faced criticism, particularly from far-right groups, who launched a petition calling for Bambie Thug’s disqualification from the competition. They argued that the song’s lyrics, which include references to spells and hexes like “Avada Kedavra,” glorified Satanism and the occult, deeming it a mockery of Irish national culture. Additionally, there was opposition to having a non-binary individual represent the country. Despite the controversy, Bambie Thug’s presence and expression on the Eurovision stage have challenged traditional norms and sparked important conversations about inclusivity and artistic freedom.
Bambie Thug stood their ground in response, stating, “If you don’t want to be part of the Haus Of Thug, you are not obligated to come on this journey with me... don’t waste your life hung up [on] hate... [and] don’t be mad because I haven’t forgotten the art of play, fun, and creation and you have”. Despite the controversy, the song garnered praise and support, even from previous Eurovision winners, some of whom believe it has the potential to secure another victory for Ireland. Bambie Thug’s boldness and uniqueness have been particularly admired, cementing their reputation for bravery in the face of adversity.
Bambie Thug’s innovative entry and the buzz surrounding other participants indicate that this year’s Eurovision will be a thrilling celebration of musical diversity and creativity. The stage is set for an unforgettable event, and we cannot wait to see what unfolds on the Eurovision stage this year.
