TOP 10 Songs by Ukrainian Bands & Music Artists
Ukraine saw the unfortunate rise of the headline news when the war broke out in the country in 2022. It is a tragedy that destroyed lives of millions of people right in the center of Europe. And as the people suffer from the ongoing horrible conflict, most news outlets cover these events of course.
While many around the world found out about Ukraine because of the war, the country has many other notable, very positive and interesting points. Sports, inventions, art, culture, music. Ukrainian music in particular is one of the hidden gems that has a lot to offer to music fans.
These are the TOP 10 Songs by Ukrainian music bands. From pop, to folk, rock, hip hop and electronic genres. The best songs by the country’s great musicians and artists.
I have researched music scene of many countries from various parts of the globe, and Ukraine in particular has some of the most impressive talents. You might heard some of these bands but did not realize that they are from Ukraine.
Most of the songs are in Ukrainian language, but when did that stop us from enjoying music, right? Music is universal, a great melody or the voice is great in any language. I hope you will enjoy this list and like these awesome Ukrainian music hits.
Okean Elzy – Obijmy (Океан Ельзи – Обійми)
Okean Elzy (ukr.”Океан Ельзи”) is on the biggest and most successful groups from Ukraine. It’s a rock band founded in the 90s and since the start they have been leaders of a music scene in the country. Sold out stadiums, countless hits, international tours, etc. The song Obijmy ( ukr “Обійми” ) which is translated as Embrace me, is their most viewed track on YouTube with more than 60 million views.
Odyn v Kanoe – I Have No Home (Один в каное – У мене немає дому)
Odyn v Kanoe ( ukr.”Один в каное”) is an indie folk band from Lviv, Ukraine. The group plays a striking, often calming music, that combines fascinating melodies with exquisite minimalist instruments and charming vocals by the lead singer Iryna Shvaidak. The song I Have No Home has around 20 million views on YouTube and the official video tells a fascinating visual story.
Druga Rika – Secret (Друга Ріка – Секрет)
Druga Rika (ukr.”Друга Ріка”) is one of the most accomplished original bands in Ukraine. Founded in mid 90s they have been evolving with their sound and always remained really popular. Great alternative rock with pop elements, cool voice and top sound.
BoomBox – Alone (БумБокс – Наодинці)
BoomBox ( ukr.”БумБокс”) is a famous Ukrainian alternative rock and funk band from Kiev. It was created by the band’s leader Andriy Khlyvnyuk in the early 2000s. BoomBox have integrated many styles into their sound and they have songs in different languages. When the war in Ukraine has started Andriy volunteered to enter the combat. He also recorded a short clip of him singing a national song while on patrol in Kiev. That clip vent viral, got remixed and is super recognizable. The melody was even used in Pink Floyd’s 2022 hit “Hey Hey Rise Up”.
The song Alone (ukr. Наодинці) is a signature hit by BoomBox showcasing their original sound.
VV – Kraina Mriy (Воплі Відоплясова – Країна Мрій)
Vopli Vidopliassova (ukr. Воплі Відоплясова), also often shortened to VV is one of the oldest and most artistic Ukrainian music groups. They have a unique folk-rock / psychedelic alternative rock style that is very unusual yet really interesting. Formed in the late 80s, the band has been around for almost 40 years. If you never heard their music, the song “Kraina Mriy” (translted as The Land of Dreams) is a perfect hit to enjoy. The video for this song is a wonderful art piece in its own.
THE HARDKISS – Zhuravli (Океан Ельзи – Обійми)
The Hardkiss is one of the newer Ukrainian bands. They were formed in 2011 and right from the start produced extremely high quality and fresh sound. It’s a mix of alternative rock, electro rock, progressive pop and acoustics. The lead singer Julia Sanina possesses an incredible clear voice. Combines with the band’s experiments with different music genres this leads to beautiful songs. The track “Zhuravli” is an acoustic masterpiece by The Hardkiss.
KALUSH feat. Alyona Alyona – Mountains (Гори)
A collaboration of Ukrainian rap group KALUSH and rapper-songwriter Alyona Alyona. KALUSH emerged as a instant hit among the younger audience in Ukraine. Especially for those who loved hip hop music. “Mountains” became super popular right away.
JINJER – Pisces
JINJER is a Ukrainian metalcore band that blew up with the release of their hit “Pisces”. The songs caused a lot of viral reaction videos on YouTube. If you haven’t heard it yet, you are in for a treat. The band was formed in 2008 and underwent many lineup changes before settling down in 2017. Tatiana Shmayluk, the lead singer has incredible voice and if you like metal, this should be a hit for you.
ONUKA – Time
Have you ever listened to electro-folk? Well, Ukraine has a superb band that creates amazing music in this genre. They combine modern vibes and cool elector elements with some national instruments. The result – unique authentic sound you won’t find anywhere else. Their song Time is a great example.
Motanka – Bosymy Nizhkamy
Motanka – is one of the best progressive metal bands you’ve never heard about. If you are a fan of heavy music, this should be your cup of tea. And yes, this band is from Ukraine. Created in 2015 and later signed by Napalm Records, this talented group makes absolutely incredible music. A one of a kind blend of progressive metal with folk elements and ethnic Ukrainian instruments like dulcimer and ocarina. The song Bosymy Nizhkamy (translated as “barefoot“) is a prime example of their sound.
You can listen the entire playlist on Spotify:
