On the evening of May 13, the Eurovision 2025 stage in Basel paused for a moment of reflection — and magic. A pre-recorded message from Celine Dion played during the first semi-final, and though the legendary singer wasn’t physically present, her presence was undeniable.
Soft-spoken and sincere, Dion spoke from the heart. “Music is our power,” she said — and proved it, even without singing a note.
She reminisced about the night that changed her life forever: her victory at Eurovision 1988, where she represented Switzerland and won with “Ne Partez Pas Sans Moi.”
“Switzerland will always be in my heart… Eurovision was the beginning of everything,” Dion shared emotionally. Though brief, her words carried enormous weight — a reminder of the power of music, memory, and connection.
Following her message, the show paid tribute in the most moving way. Four young artists from across Europe came together on stage to perform a powerful rendition of Dion’s winning song.
Among them was Marina Satti, Greece’s 2024 representative, joined by Jery Heil (Ukraine), Iolanda (Portugal), and Silvester Belt (Lithuania). Their voices blended seamlessly, breathing new life into the iconic ballad while honoring the timeless beauty of the original.
The audience responded with thunderous applause, and social media quickly lit up with praise, calling it one of the most genuine and emotional Eurovision moments in recent memory.
Even without a live performance, Celine Dion once again reminded the world why she remains one of the most beloved voices of all time — and why her legacy still echoes, 37 years later.