01.02.2023: UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin welcomed the launch of Eurovision 2023 at a handover ceremony on Tuesday January 31.

Broadcast on BBC Two and hosted by Rylan and AJ Odudu, the event saw Stefano Lo Russo, the Mayor of Turin, where the contest was held last year, hand over the “keys” to Liverpool.

The UK is hosting the competition on behalf of Ukraine, whose act Kalush Orchestra won in 2022. Sam Ryder, the UK’s act came in second place.

Young people from Liverpool, as well as members of the Ukrainian community who have been living in the city since the war began, were also involved in the event.

The BBC has announced the slogan for Eurovision 2023, which will be United by Music, that they hope will showcase the power of music to bring people together.

UK Music Chief Executive Jamie Njoku-Goodwin said:  

“Eurovision is a fantastic example of how we are all united by music. Fans from around the world can gather in some of Europe’s most amazing cities to celebrate music and culture.

“It’s a reminder about the power of music to motivate, inspire and connect us – and how we can harness that power to address some of these urgent and pressing societal needs.

“Hosted by Liverpool on behalf of Ukraine, Eurovision 2023 will be a very special contest and a demonstration of the incredible power of music to bring people together across the world.”

The final is set to take place on Saturday May 13.