Shaping Political Discourse through the Pop Music Scene: The Influence of Songs from Ukrainian National Liberation Movements and World War II amid the Russo-Ukrainian War

• In Event: Struggle for Liberation: Perception of the Russo-Ukrainian War in Ukraine

Abstract

The revival of patriotic song repertoires stands out as a noteworthy phenomenon in the Russo-Ukrainian war after February 2022. Such repertoires as Strilets´ki Songs, originating from the legion of Sichovi Stril´tsi during 1914-1918, served as a potent vehicle for conveying cultural, historical, and patriotic messages among Ukrainian communities. The song "Oi u Luzi Chervona Kalyna" has garnered significant attention following a TikTok video created by Ukrainian singer Andriy Khlyvniuk, where he announced his departure to the front by singing this song.
This sparked a widespread flash mob, inspiring global bands, including Pink Floyd, to cover it. The composition has transformed into a symbolic anthem for pro-Ukrainian communities worldwide, prominently showcased during demonstrations and events where they aimed to articulate resilience and patriotism. This trend not only revived interest in this particular song but also contributed to the rejuvenation of the larger corpus of the Strilets´ki songs repertoire and pieces transporting similar patriotic messages.

Simultaneously, the strategic use of Soviet historical narratives from World War II through the revival of song repertoires from this period served as a tool for Russian state propaganda and the justification of military invasion. The contemporary music scene in Russia often drew inspiration from these old Soviet songs, invoking nostalgia, fostering patriotism, and aligning with historical narratives. Termed "patriotic" or "war songs," these compositions conveyed themes of resilience, need for sacrifice, and national unity. Contemporary pop songs often employed similar motifs, lyrics, and music to establish a connection with wartime pasts. These musical products functioned as cultural tools, tapping into the emotions associated with wartime experiences and influencing public sentiment and response.

This study seeks to explore the instrumentalization of historical narratives through old song repertoires and their elements in the context of the Russo-Ukrainian War, examining their efficacy and usage. By analyzing the cultural and political significance of these narratives applied in the songs, this research aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of music's role in times of military conflict.

Author

• Olga Zaitseva-Herz, U of Alberta (Canada)