The Eurovision Song Contest 1979 was the 24th Eurovision Song Contest and was held on 31 March 1979 in Jerusalem, Israel. The presenters were Daniel Pe'er and Yardena Arazi, and the event was staged at the International Convention Center. Representing Israel, Gali Atari and Milk and Honey were the winners of this Eurovision with the song, "Hallelujah". This was a second victory in a row for Israel, it was also their second victory in the contest.
As noted in author and historian John Kennedy O'Connor's book The Eurovision Song Contest - The Official History, at one point before the contest Turkey was going to participate. The country would have appeared 11th on stage (between Israel and France), represented by Maria Rita Epik and 21. Peron with the song "Seviyorum" ("I'm Loving"). However Turkey was forced to retire from the contest under pressure from Arab states who objected to a predominantly Muslim country taking part in a contest held in Israel.
As well as being broadcast live in the 19 competing countries the contest was broadcast in Romania, Turkey, Hong Kong and Iceland.
Read more about Eurovision Song Contest 1979: Results, Voting Structure, Score Sheet, Returning Artists, Spokespersons, National Jury Members
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