Sixties crooner ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK, whose 'Release Me' kept The Beatles off the #1 spot in 1967, will represent the United Kingdom at this year’s Eurovision Song Contest.

Humperdinck, 75, said, “I am so thrilled to have been asked by the BBC to represent the U.K. at Eurovision 2012!...without hesitation I happily accepted.”

Katie Taylor, head of entertainment and events for the BBC, said:

“Not since the ’70s have we had such an established international musical legend represent the nation.

“We couldn’t be more delighted. Engelbert’s experience leaves us in no doubt that he will be able to deliver a standout performance in front of 120 million viewers worldwide.”

The U.K. has not won the Europe-wide contest since 1997, when Katrina and the Waves grabbed first place.

Set your calendars for May 26.