Songwriting duo aim for eurovision glory

No one can question Ireland's standing in the Eurovision Song Contest. With an impressive seven wins to date, including three consecutive, we remain the most successful country in the competition. However with our last success being as far back as 1996, the time for change is long overdue.

With this in mind RTE decided to scrap the mentor system and welcomed entries from talented songwriters and producers across the country. As a result this year's EuroSong response was overwhelming with over 400 potential winning entries flooding their post box.

Celebrated song-writers Shane Butler (recognised by the British song-writing Academy) and Ian Colgan jumped at the chance to enter their song, 'Be Mine', a modern pop ballad with a country twist. Performed by the hugely popular Robert Mizzell this song is certainly different from the now cliché Euro Pop sound we've become accustomed to at the Eurovision.

Dubliners Shane and Ian are no strangers to the cut and thrust of a song-writing competition having had success on the RTE pilot music show 'The Hit' which resulted in a number one European release of their song 'Invisible', performed by Bryan McFadden. This talented trio are confident that not only can their song beat off the competition to become Irelandʼs entry but can take the top prize in Europe.

Ian Colgan says 'Be Mine' takes us back to basics - a great song performed by an incredible vocalist, we want to bring back the Eurovision glory days to Ireland.”