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Kalush OrchestraRap group
Date of Birth: 01.01.2019
Country:  Ukraine |
Content:
- Kalush: From Provincial Slang to Eurovision Triumph
- Early Life and Career
- Musical Breakthrough
- Kalush Orchestra: Ukrainian Folklore and International Success
- Eurovision Controversy and Victory
Kalush: From Provincial Slang to Eurovision Triumph
Formation and MembersThe Ukrainian hip-hop trio Kalush erupted onto the scene in 2019 with their debut track, showcasing their unique use of provincial Ukrainian slang. As they gained fame, the group seamlessly blended rap with ethnic motifs, creating a captivating new sound.
The group's formation began when Oleh Psiuk, the founder and lead vocalist, posted a recruitment ad on Facebook. Igor Didenchuk and MC Kilimen joined Psiuk to complete the trio. They chose the name "Kalush" in honor of Psiuk's hometown in western Ukraine.
Early Life and Career
Born in 1994, Psiuk grew up in a family of blue-collar workers. Despite pursuing higher education in engineering and automation, he acknowledged later that it was a waste of time. His passion for rap began at age 15, and he adopted the stage name "Psuchiy Syn" (Stray Dog's Son). His debut album, "Torba" (Bag), depicted the harsh realities of life in Kalush, including poverty and substance abuse. Psiuk's own struggles with addiction lasted until 2016.
Igor Didenchuk, born in the early 2000s, studied music at the Kyiv University of Culture and Arts. He is known for his proficiency on over 56 musical instruments. Little is known about the third member, MC Kilimen, who rarely sings but instead dances and conceals his face and body with Ukrainian-patterned fabrics, resembling tattoos.
Musical Breakthrough
Kalush's first official music video for "Ne Marynu" was released in 2019 and quickly gained traction due to its use of Kalush slang. The group's subsequent track, "Ti Gonish," propelled them further into the spotlight, leading to a contract with Def Jam Records and collaborations with Ukrainian rap star Alyona Alyona.
The band's debut album, "Hotin," released in 2021, showcased their early hits and new songs like "Zori" and "Gori." A collaboration with rapper Skofka, entitled "Yo-Yo," followed shortly after, featuring popular singles such as "Dodoma" and "Faina."
Kalush Orchestra: Ukrainian Folklore and International Success
Alongside their main project, Kalush launched a second venture in 2021: Kalush Orchestra. This offshoot incorporated Ukrainian folklore into their rap, expanding the group to six members with the addition of a backing vocalist and multi-instrumentalists.
The new collective released their debut single and music video, "Shtomber Womber," which showcased their emphasis on Ukrainian authenticity with traditional dress, ethnic motifs, and mythological imagery. Riding the wave of their popularity, Kalush Orchestra successfully competed in the Ukrainian national selection for Eurovision 2022 with their song "Stefania," dedicated to Psiuk's mother.
Eurovision Controversy and Victory
Despite finishing third in the jury vote, Kalush Orchestra surged to victory grâce to overwhelming public support. However, their triumph was overshadowed by accusations of plagiarism and biased voting. Singer Alina Pash, who had originally won the selection, withdrew her candidacy due to a scandal surrounding her visit to Crimea.
Kalush Orchestra represented Ukraine at Eurovision 2022 in Turin, Italy, as the heavy favorites. They were prohibited from making explicit political statements but managed to convey a message of unity and peace by appealing to world leaders after their performance.
Amidst a public outcry, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged viewers across Europe to vote for the Ukrainian representatives. Along with the support of renowned author J.K. Rowling, public votes propelled Kalush Orchestra to a resounding victory, securing Ukraine's third Eurovision win.
