It's been over a month since Russia invaded Ukraine, within that time there have been many casualties, and people have had to flee home for safety. However, during this awful time of crisis, one positive that has occurred is the unity across the world in support of Ukraine. Many musicians have been rallying support, using their status and fanbases to spread awareness and encourage them to donate to charities and campaigns that aim to help those in need during this time.
There have been many concerts that have given all the funds raised to charities helping Ukraine such as the recent “Concert for Ukraine” that saw some of the biggest musicians like Ed Sheeran and Camilo Cabello perform. The winner of the Eurovision song contest in 2016, Ukrainian singer Jamala, also performed, having fled her home two weeks ago stating that her family and friends were still in bomb shelters back in Ukraine.
The proceeds from the concert all went towards the Disasters Emergency Committee's Ukraine Humanitarian appeal which is helping to provide food, water and shelter for refugees in Ukraine. According to ITV, the concert raised over £13million as of 30th March. The concert for Ukraine was broadcast live on 29th March on ITV but is available on-demand via the ITV Hub. According to ITV, the concert raised over £13million as of 30th March. The concert for Ukraine was broadcast live on 29th March on ITV but is available on-demand via the ITV Hub.
The support has continued across the globe from musicians to organisations, and campaigns, and we even saw this on one of music’s biggest nights, the annual Grammy Awards. The 64th edition of the Grammys occurred recently and they partnered with Stand Up For the Ukraine campaign to raise awareness about the country's current situation. They promised to feature a special segment dedicated to Ukraine which saw President Zelenskyy make an appearance in a pre-recorded video as he gave a powerful speech that began with, “what is more opposite to music? The silence of ruined cities and killed people”. He continued, "our musicians wear body armour 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." He ends his speech by pointing out the importance of music during difficult times and that we all must offer support.
Zelensky's speech then led to John Legend's performing his new song "Free," during which he invited Ukrainian musicians and a poet to perform with him. Legend said on his Twitter he wrote the song “after a week of seeing the horrific images of the senseless, brutal invasion of Ukraine.” “I know I can't end any wars with a song,” he continued, “but I had to write this song as my prayer, my contribution to the chorus of voices calling for peace and freedom for all people.” After the performance, the audience was directed to ways to donate in support of Ukraine.
During a difficult time, it has been heart-warming to see the music industry rallying together to raise funds for active organisations bringing relief to those in distress. Even during awful times like this, music can bring people together and offers comfort and creates hope for those who are desperately in need of it. Our support for those in need matters now more than ever.
Nathan Sung