On this day in 1968, Cliff Richard took to the stage at London’s iconic Royal Albert Hall to perform “Congratulations,” the UK’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest — and delivered one of the most memorable performances in Eurovision history. Although the song ultimately finished second by just one heartbreaking point, it went on to become a far bigger hit than the winning entry from Spain
“Congratulations” was written by the hitmaking duo Bill Martin and Phil Coulter, the same team behind “Puppet on a String.” Interestingly, the song originally began life under the title “I Think I Love You”, but after reworking the lyrics, it transformed into the upbeat anthem we know today. The track was arranged, conducted and produced by Norrie Paramor, who also served as musical director for the contest itself.
From the moment it was released, the song exploded in popularity across the UK, soaring straight to No.1 on the charts. It became such a sensation that, on the day of the final, the British press cheekily asked:
“What will come second to ‘Congratulations’?”
And for most of the voting, it looked like they were right. Cliff Richard was leading the scoreboard — until the very last moments. In a dramatic twist, Germany awarded six points to Spain, nudging Spain’s “La, la, la” ahead by just one single point. The UK finished second, but Cliff’s song would soon prove it didn’t need a trophy to become a classic.
“Congratulations” went on to dominate charts across Europe, becoming one of Cliff Richard’s signature hits. In July 1968, it was featured on the Columbia EP “Congratulations: Cliff Sings 6 Songs for Europe.”
Decades later, the song’s legacy remained unshakable. It was chosen as the title track and opening performance for the 50th anniversary celebration of Eurovision — “Congratulations: 50 Years of the Eurovision Song Contest.” Cliff also performed it in 1995 at the 50th anniversary of VE Day, proving that, despite being written long after World War II, its joyful spirit made it timeless.
More than just a Eurovision entry, “Congratulations” became an anthem of celebration — and one of the most enduring songs of Cliff Richard’s legendary career
