During the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns, the song saw a resurgence as a symbol of hope and togetherness, famously performed during the Morgensang på DR1 national sing-alongs. What is it about?
Painting the Town Red: The Legacy of Birthe Kjær’s "Vi maler byen rød" Brithe KjГ¦r - Vi maler byen rГёd
In 1989, Birthe Kjær took the stage in Lausanne, Switzerland, representing Denmark. While many entries that year were leaning into more modern synth sounds, "Vi maler byen rød"—written by the legendary Keld Heick and Søren Bundgaard—was an unapologetic throwback to cabaret-style entertainment. During the 2020 COVID-19 lockdowns, the song saw
One of the most memorable parts of the performance was when Birthe "invited" the conductor, Henrik Krogsgaard, onto the stage to join her for the final chorus—a rare break from Eurovision formality. More Than Just a Song: Its Cultural Impact While many entries that year were leaning into
The song is officially considered a "landeplage" (a song that plagues the land, but in a good way), even being the subject of a DR documentary series about Denmark's most significant hits.
Its popularity led to the creation of Vi maler byen rød: The Musical in 2010, which featured over 20 classic Danish Eurovision hits and gained cult status before its premiere.
"Vi maler byen rød" didn't just disappear after the contest; it became a Danish institution.