"Hey Mamma" by Sunstroke Project is a popular Eurovision Song Contest entry from Moldova in 2017. Here are some interesting facts about the song and the group:
Epic Sax Guy: The most iconic element of "Hey Mamma" is the saxophonist, Sergey Stepanov, who became an internet sensation known as "Epic Sax Guy." His energetic and charismatic saxophone performance during the song's instrumental break went viral and spawned numerous memes and remixes.
Eurovision Success: "Hey Mamma" was Moldova's third Eurovision entry by Sunstroke Project. Their previous attempts in 2010 and 2015 also garnered attention, but "Hey Mamma" was their most successful entry, finishing in third place in the Eurovision Song Contest 2017.
Inspiration for the Song: The song "Hey Mamma" is an upbeat and catchy tune with a humorous touch. It tells the story of a young man asking his mother for advice on how to win over a woman he is interested in.
Moldovan Roots: Sunstroke Project is a Moldovan musical group formed in 2008. The band members include Sergey Stepanov (saxophonist and vocalist), Anton Ragoza (violinist), and Sergey Yalovitsky (vocalist). They are known for their unique blend of electronic, pop, and dance music.
International Success: "Hey Mamma" achieved significant success beyond the Eurovision stage. It garnered millions of views on YouTube and became a hit in various European countries, including Russia, Greece, and Sweden.
Eurovision's Second Chance: Sunstroke Project initially represented Moldova in Eurovision in 2010 with the song "Run Away." Although they didn't win the contest, their performance featuring the saxophonist's signature moves gained attention and made them a memorable act in Eurovision history.
"Hey Mamma" Remixes: The song's popularity led to numerous remixes and covers by various artists and musicians, further solidifying its status as a Eurovision classic.
Continuing Success: Sunstroke Project continued to release music after their Eurovision success, including singles like "Sun Gets Down" and "I Want You." They maintained a dedicated fan base and continued to perform at various events and festivals.
Influence on Eurovision: "Hey Mamma" and the "Epic Sax Guy" meme had a lasting impact on Eurovision, inspiring other contestants to incorporate memorable and entertaining elements into their performances.
Return to Eurovision: After their successful return in 2017, Sunstroke Project has remained a beloved act in Eurovision circles. Fans eagerly awaited their future participation in the contest and their music releases.
Sunstroke Project's "Hey Mamma" is a prime example of how Eurovision can launch artists into international stardom and create enduring cultural phenomena within the Eurovision community and beyond.