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

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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‘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.