Ukrainian Music: How You Can Help
What is happening in Ukraine is something that has the entire world holding its breath. It’s hard to know what is the best mode of action as a civilian, having to stand on the sidelines and watch the horrors of war literally play out on the internet and in the news. For some of us, this is not the first time. For members of the younger generation, this is unprecedented. Regardless, the fear and uncertainty of the future is present in everyone’s minds, whether you recognize it or not.
In light of the atrocities being done to the Ukrainian people, I tried researching what, if anything, I could do as a citizen to help out. I don’t have money to share, I don’t have any power or influence, but what I do have is a platform – as small of an audience I may reach. If there’s any ray of light we can turn to in these dark times, it’s the things we stay alive for – music, art and love.
Today, I will be highlighting some of the best Ukrainian music I have stumbled upon in recent days, and I have included links where you can go to support these people in the little ways you can. I am imploring you to take a few moments out of your day to appreciate, hold space for and share the talent of Ukraine with your networks.
Go_A
Winning fifth place in the first semi-final of the Eurovision Song Contest for hit ‘Shum,’ Go_A has already left its mark on Ukrainian EDM by blasting it into the mainstream when it went viral on Tik Tok in 2021. Haunting and ethereal yet bumping out heavy basslines, Go_A put Ukraine on the map of overnight sensations much like Borns and Curtis Waters, taking the Tik Tok For You Page by storm. It was hard to get annoyed by the overplayed track, as the rest of their work is just as good. In an interview with NPR, Go_A’s lead singer, Kateryna Pavlenko says sharing Ukraine’s culture and traditions with the world through song is “about people’s lives.” They are unique in their identity — as is their music.
After listening through my fair share of Ukrainian artists, I’m happy to say Ukraine has got some of the best EDM in the industry. Most artists have an uplifting, downright fun sound but not without its booming bass lines. If you’re craving beats to bounce to, Ukraine is the perfect place to look. It seems as if each song I listen to is impeccably crafted from intro, breakdown, build up and drop. Full of energy and life, some of my favorites that have emerged from the scene are DJ MalYar, Sagan and Cyborgs.
Ukrainian metal artists have definitely seemed to have mastered the art. With the most ‘throaty’ screamo and heaviest guitar riffs I’ve ever heard, they know how to make you feel like you’ve taken a boot to the face. With common themes like religion, war and comedy, they immaculately nail the essence of metal — there’s no way of preparing for what you’re going to get. Some of my favorites as of late are Tol, Space Of Variations and Velikhan.
Jinjer
I was introduced to Jinjer a few months ago by a friend of a friend. Their song ‘Pisces’ is one I hold very close to my heart for obvious reasons, but what inspires me the most about this group is the lead — Tatiana Shmailyuk. While women-lead metal bands are becoming more commonplace, I will never not feel a leap of joy when I see a lady ripping throats with her vocals. I am proud when I listen to Jinjer and each piece they craft is haunting, beautiful and poignant.
It’s hard for me to speak to the characteristics of traditional Ukrainian music, but it seems to have a storytelling element to it, as well as a harmonic, rhythmic one. Some tracks are more ominous, forewarning and a cautionary tale, but others are more upbeat, sophisticated and ethereal. Some of my other favorites include Dakh Daughters and Folknery.
DakhaBrakha
Much like Laboratorium Piesni, I cannot tell my readers enough how much I love this group. Bringing traditional song to the public in a modern way, there aren’t really words I could use to describe these guys, other than a unique blend of tribal beats, overtone singing and a dazzling glimpse into Ukrainian culture. The only way to share this group is for you to experience it yourself, so I highly encourage any of you to look them up and enjoy.
Whether you’re into bouncing EDM at a house party or giving yourself whiplash headbanging at a metal show, the Ukrainians have shown the entire world the richness of their culture — and their strength endures. While I can’t donate anything to the cause, all I ask is that you listen to the art of these wonderful people, help raise awareness and pray for the future. After all, what the world needs is love, now more than ever.
Below I’ve included a list of links you can visit to do your own research, resources you can donate to and musicians and labels you can support. And if you can’t do anything, please share this blog with your audiences to spread the word.
Shared Google Spreadsheet of Ukrainian Musicians & Labels.
Bandcamp Friday Helping Ukrainian Musicians.
More Ukrainian Music You Can Support: https://musictech.com/news/music/help-ukraine-charities-record-labels-movements-humanitarian-efforts-music-industry-you-can-support/
https://cdm.link/2022/02/here-are-ukrainian-artists-and-labels-you-can-support-and-celebrate/
