Finnish monster metallers LORDI have marked twenty years since their historic Eurovision Song Contest victory with a surprise collaboration — recording a heavy metal version of Irish pop legend Johnny Logan's 1987 power ballad "Hold Me Now", featuring former BATTLE BEAST vocalist Noora Louhimo.
In a symmetrical song swap, Logan simultaneously released a pop-rock version of LORDI's Eurovision-winning anthem "Hard Rock Hallelujah". The idea was born during a chance phone call that stretched over an hour. Logan recalled: "When I heard LORDI's demo of their winning song tailored to me, I knew right away I wanted to take part."
Mr. Lordi explained the concept: "We wanted to do something special for the twentieth anniversary of LORDI's Eurovision victory as well as the seventieth anniversary of Eurovision itself. Both songs are Eurovision winners reimagined in completely new genres."
Noora Louhimo, who departed BATTLE BEAST in December 2025 to pursue a solo career, brings her signature power to the metal reworking. Mr. Lordi said: "I knew we needed extra kick. Noora has a mind-blowing voice that lifts this version to a completely new height." For Louhimo, the project fulfills several dreams: "Working with LORDI, working with the legend Johnny Logan, singing a Eurovision winner in heavy metal style — I love every bit of it."
The collaboration marks Louhimo's first official solo release. She is currently working on her second solo album for 2027. LORDI will perform at this year's Eurovision Song Contest. Note: due to the Irish ESC boycott, Johnny Logan will not appear at the contest despite the project's timing.