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How has Ukraine’s music scene been affected by the war?

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London, UK
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Economies, oil prices, humanitarian aid, and many other services have been impacted by the ongoing Ukrainian and Russian conflict. Musicians and artists have asked for the right to protest on streaming services and indie labels could be irreversibly damaged.

Ukrainian musicians and industry representatives have called for streaming services – such as Spotify and Apple Music – to approve the inclusion of political messages on album artwork.

Those inside Ukraine affected by the conflict want to provide accurate information to Russian citizens who have largely been misinformed by propaganda campaigns.

Apple Music and Spotify currently do not allow for politically charged content to be published on their platforms – though an exception could be made in this instance. Kyiv-based promoter H2D posted on Instagram appealing for a rule change a few days ago.

 

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A post shared by H2D (@h2d.concerts)

‘The Russian people do not have access to truthful information,’ the statement says. ‘Ordinary people in Russia still do not believe or refuse to believe what is happening.’

‘We, Ukrainian artists, want to change the cover of our albums and tracks to convey this information to our listeners from Russia and around the world.’ This cover change could affect any album or single, even those already released – its all about getting the message out.

How have Western artists been responding to the war, however? Many are facing public pressure to cancel any Russian gigs, tours, or business dealings. Green Day, Yungblud, and music companies such as Oak View Group have already stated they will not be interacting with Russia for the foreseeable future.

It goes without saying, but the music industry is obviously not the main priority currently, as Ukrainians fight for their nation and survival, but all industries will be impacted long-term.

Sanctions have hit Russia from all around the world and will affect its economy for a long time – musicians will struggle to travel or perform there regardless of their political stance.

Rolling Stone has published a lengthy piece on Ukraine’s music scene and the existential threat it faces as war erupts. Since 2014 it had seen a rise in bands and artists of all genres, but now industry names are struggling to decide on where to go and what to do.

Clubs and gig venues are closed and will be indefinitely. EDM in particular has seen significant growth over the last decade, but now the validity of a future music scene is in question.

Ultimately, we’ve no idea what could happen next. The music industry is not the biggest focus for now, but jobs, artistic growth, and the possibility for creative expression may be severely damaged.

We will have to wait with bated breath as the war continues.

Editor In Chief London, UK

I’m Charlie (He/Him), the Editor In Chief at Thred. I studied English at the University of Birmingham and as a music and gaming enthusiast, I’m a nerd for pop culture. You can find me curating playlists, designing article headline images, and sipping cider on a Thursday. Follow me on Twitter, LinkedIn and drop me some ideas/feedback via email.

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