Pink Floyd's ‘Hey, Hey, Rise Up!’: A tribute to Ukrainian resilience

On April 8, 2022, Pink Floyd unveiled ‘Hey, Hey, Rise Up!’ on digital platforms, a release that carries deep significance in the band's legacy. This impactful song, inspired by a Ukrainian anthem from over a century ago, not only showcases the band's enduring creativity but also serves as a moving tribute to Ukraine's resilience amid challenging times.


The song is based on the 1914 Ukrainian anthem "Oh, the Red Viburnum in the Meadow," written by Stepan Charnetskii to honor the Sich Riflemen. The anthem has been a symbol of Ukrainian resilience for over a century, and its revival in this modern context underscores the ongoing struggle for freedom and sovereignty.


For those who are moved by "Hey, Hey, Rise Up!" and want to explore more music that echoes the sentiments of peace and resistance, here’s a curated playlist of 60 anti-war songs. This collection spans decades and genres, featuring tracks that have become anthems in their own right—each one a reminder of the universal desire for peace in a world often torn by conflict. Whether you're revisiting classics or discovering new voices, this playlist offers a powerful soundtrack to the ongoing fight for justice and freedom.