Launch of the 'Tysyachovesna' Program
During the presentation of the state initiative 'Tysyachovesna', Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky revealed his personal music tastes, naming the band 'Okean Elzy' as his favorite. He also mentioned listening to tracks from popular artist Bad Bunny and using streaming services like YouTube Music, Spotify, and Apple Music. This initiative, which will become an annual event, has already received 2,634 applications for its competition.
Zelensky stated: 'I love Okean Elzy, honestly. Just don't tell Vakarchuk. But it's true: we have so many different talents.'
He emphasized that Ukraine is home to many young, gifted musicians who may even surpass Vakarchuk in talent. Additionally, the president expressed his enjoyment of Bad Bunny's music, saying: 'I never thought I would, for example, listen to Bunny (Bad Bunny) with such pleasure.'
Recognition for Okean Elzy
As part of the 'Tysyachovesna' program, the frontman of Okean Elzy was honored with the 'National Legend of Ukraine' award, recognizing the band's contribution to Ukrainian culture. Furthermore, Ukraine's Ministry of Culture and Strategic Communications extended the critical enterprise status for 'SuperSymmetry' LLC, which holds the rights to manage and oversee the creative legacy of Okean Elzy.
Zelensky also shared his listening habits, noting: 'I use everything. I fall asleep that way, honestly.' This highlights the role of music in the president's life and, by extension, in the lives of many Ukrainians. The 'Tysyachovesna' program thus not only supports emerging talent but is also recognized as a key initiative for fostering Ukraine's cultural landscape.
The 'Tysyachovesna' program aims to stimulate creativity among young Ukrainian musicians and promote Ukrainian culture on the global stage. Honoring Okean Elzy and its leader as a 'National Legend of Ukraine' underscores the significant impact musical groups have on shaping national identity. The president's involvement in this initiative reinforces the importance of state-backed cultural support in Ukraine, especially amid contemporary challenges.
In addition to his musical preferences, Zelensky has ambitious plans for Ukrainian culture, such as a new historical series set in Kyivan Rus, which aims to showcase the rich heritage of Ukraine. This initiative complements the 'Tysyachovesna' program by further highlighting the nation's creative potential and storytelling traditions.