Russia in the Eurovision Song Contest 2006

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Dima Bilan represented Russia with the song "Never Let You Go".

Russia’s entry for the Eurovision Song Contest 2006 was chosen in an internal selection process by Channel One. Favourites for selection were Jasmin, Dima Bilan, and Varvara. It was decided that Dima Bilan would represent Russia this year. The chosen song was Never Let You Go. The song was written by Karen Kavaleryan and Irina Antonyan and composed by Alexandr Lunyov.

The song came in second place at Eurovision, equalling their performance in 2000 for their best result ever.

Dima Bilan (real name Viktor Belan) was born on 24 December, 1981 in Karachay-Cherkessia and graduated from Gnesinyh musical college as a classical vocal performer. Dima made his debut when he reached 4th place at the Russian/Latvian festival "New Wave" in 2002. In 2003, Dima Bilan released his debut album titled "Nochnoy Huligan," which included covers of "Caruso" by Lucio Dalla and "Fever" by Elvis. In 2004, he released his successful single "Na beregu neba," which was also the title of his second album. Dima Bilan attempted to reach Eurovision previously with the song Not That Simple in 2005, finishing in 2nd place at the Russian national selection.