UK Selects Song With German Chorus for Eurovision 2026

The United Kingdom's entry for Eurovision 2026 has generated widespread online discussion after its release, primarily due to the prominent use of German in the chorus. The track, titled Eins, Zwei, Drei, is performed by experimental electronic musician Look Mum No Computer, whose real name is Sam Battle.

The retro-inspired synth-pop song features the repeated phrase “Eins, zwei, drei” as a central element, which caught many listeners off-guard given the UK's national representation. Some viewers expressed surprise and criticism that large sections of the chorus are sung in German.

Others took issue with lyrics that appear to mock elements of British culture, including the lines “Counting in English doesn't cut the mustard. So sick of munching roly-poly with custard. ” Despite the backlash, the selection has drawn praise from fans who see it as a welcome departure from previous conventional pop attempts that have not performed strongly in the competition.

Battle first gained prominence as frontman of the indie band Zibra before building a large online following through homemade instruments and musical machines. His creations include a Furby organ, a Raleigh Chopper synthesizer and a flame-throwing Henry Hoover.

Battle said he and his manager contacted the BBC about a year ago with the idea of entering Eurovision, viewing it initially as a humorous long shot. The BBC encouraged him to submit material, and he learned in January that his entry had been chosen.

He told the Radio Times he was flabbergasted by the selection. Battle explained that the team deliberately pursued a different tactic after observing that strong pop songs had not always translated well into points at the contest.

Battle addressed the linguistic choice directly in the interview, stating he has spent more time in Germany than any other country except the UK, whether working on music, meeting people or playing shows. He described the country as a significant source of inspiration.

When composing the song, he had already written the chorus and verses but struggled to make them merge effectively. He decided that incorporating a language for counting would improve the feel on the Eurovision stage. The musician emphasized the track is intended to be tongue-in-cheek and represents an unconventional approach.

He noted the BBC had been open to trying something different after a run of more traditional entries. >"I think I’ve probably spent more time in Germany than any other country except for the UK, be it working on music, meeting people or playing shows.

" — Sam Battle (Radio Times, May 2026) The contest is scheduled to take place in Vienna this year. Battle's performance will mark a notable departure for the UK in both musical style and language use. His history of building bizarre instruments, including one that ultimately melted its own plastic body from overuse, underscores the playful experimentalism he brings to the competition.