Ukrainians continue to fight on the frontlines, at home and abroad, while Russia’s horrific war on Ukraine continues.
Go A, the country’s Eurovision 2021 representative, is contributing in their own unique way, using the force and beauty of song to remind the world that evil must be defeated. The proceeds from their new single “Kalyna” will be donated to Ukraine.
The song’s title relates to the Guelder Rose, a deciduous shrub that grows to a height of four to five meters. It gets its name from Gelderland’s Duth province, but it can be found all throughout Europe, northern Africa, and central Asia. According to the band’s Instagram account, the flower has a lot of symbolism in Ukraine.
Kalyna (guelder-rose) is a symbol that has long been associated with Ukrainian culture. Its meanings have been passed down through the generations through folklore and ballads. A shattered kalyna tree was a portent of danger and tragedy, and it was a horrible deed to abuse this tree. People in Ukraine zealously guarded it since it was thought that kalyna only blossomed in the presence of decent people. According to our forefathers, kalyna possesses the ability to grant immortality and to unite generations in the struggle against evil.”
“The song ‘Kalyna’ is a message to the world that we must unite for humanity’s future.” The song can be found on all major streaming services. “Every penny will go to Ukraine.”
The cover graphic depicts the harsh realities that Ukraine is facing. A pair of hands grasp the plant’s little red berries, which release blood-like red fluid. The berry cluster is a Ukrainian Army symbol. The cover is a monument to both strength and perseverance, as well as the truth that Ukrainians are paying the ultimate price in their struggle for survival.
