Italy Banned its Own Eurovision Song

The Eurovision Song Contest, in which performers from all over the continent compete and represent their nation on the musical stage, has been held annually in Europe since 1956. The songs can be everything from funny to embarrassing, and the performances can be incredibly elaborate.

Usually, the song a nation sends to the competition is one they hope will win, if only for some bragging rights, but Italy in 1974 didn't get that chance because they forbade their own entry. Si was going to be performed by singer Gigliola Cinquetti. Si, which naturally implies "yes," came in second place behind ABBA's Waterloo. However, nobody in Italy noticed it. They refused to broadcast it at home out of concern that the chorus's frequent use of the word "yes" might sway the vote during the nation's referendum on divorce.