Former Sex Pistols frontman John Lydon and his band Public Image Ltd (PiL) have announced they will compete to represent Ireland at the Eurovision Song Contest.
The post-punk group, formed in 1978, have entered the song Hawaii, described as a “love letter” to Lydon’s wife of nearly 50 years, Nora, who has Alzheimer’s disease.
The “pensive, personal yet universal love song” features lyrics about one of their happiest moments together during a trip to the US state.
Irish broadcaster RTE announced PiL are among the six entries vying to represent the country in Liverpool in May.
They will compete against Wild Youth, Adgy, Connolly, Leila Jane and K Muni & ND during a televised contest on The Late Late Show on Feb 3.
Lydon, 66, also known as Johnny Rotten, said of the song: “It is dedicated to everyone going through tough times on the journey of life, with the person they care for the most.
“It’s also a message of hope that ultimately love conquers all.”