Many people believe that music can bring the world together. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is one of those people. At the 2022 Grammys ceremony, Zelenskyy appeared in a video speech urging attendees and viewers alike to stand against the war in Ukraine. He also asserts that music is antithetical to war and yet has the ability to inspire major change.
“The war. What’s more opposite to music,” He exclaims in an emotional plea, “Our musicians wear body armor instead of tuxedos. They sing to the wounded. In hospitals. Even to those who can’t hear them. But the music will break through anyway.”
Zelenskyy calls for action, describing the destruction of the war: “We defend our freedom to live on our land. We are fighting Russia, which brings horrible silence with its bombs. Fill the silence with your music. Fill it today to tell our story. Tell the truth about the war on your social networks, on TV. Support us in any way you can – any- but no silence.”
Dee Snider is one of the musicians who has heeded the call, endorsing Twisted Sister’s anthemic hit “We’re Not Gonna Take It” for Ukraine. He also went on to release new music video for “Stand (For Ukraine)” as well as launch an aid campaign.
Russian punk rock band Pussy Riot has also been very vocal about their support for Ukraine. Ukrainian metalcore band recently raised over $140,000 for the cause via their merch alone. The band also had to reschedule their tour dates following the invasion. The band’s Eugene Abdukhanov has been directly affected by the war which has separated him from his family.
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