Kalush is a Ukrainian music group founded in 2019 in the city of Kalush, Ivano-Frankivsk region. The band has become one of the symbols of a new wave of Ukrainian music, blending hip-hop, pop, and folk into a unique style filled with ethnic motifs and modern sound. Their songs combine live folk instruments, rap, melodic choruses, and deep lyrics exploring themes of love, freedom, identity, and Ukrainian culture.
Formation of the Band
The group was formed in 2019 by frontman and lyricist Oleh Psyuk, known by his stage name Psiochyi Syn. The name Kalush refers to the artist’s hometown. Their debut single, “Ne marynui”, immediately caught attention for its original mix of Ukrainian rap and folk elements. Later, the band released tracks like “Ty honish” and “Hory”, solidifying their success.
Band Members
The main members of Kalush include:
- Oleh Psyuk (Psiochyi Syn) — frontman, lyricist, performer.
- Mykhailo Sokolovskyi (Dzhonni Dyser) — multi-instrumentalist.
- Vitalii Duzhyk (Kyivstyle) — instrumentalist, producer, plays duduk and trembita.
Music and Style
Kalush stands out for their original sound that blends rap, folk, hip-hop, and indie pop. Their music is rich with Ukrainian ethnic motifs and instruments (trembita, cymbals, sopilka), while their lyrics combine folk poetry with contemporary themes. This unique approach made the band a phenomenon in both the Ukrainian and international music scenes.
Their songs often explore love for the homeland, family values, inner strength, and pride in Ukrainian roots. Because of this, Kalush has attracted a wide audience, including listeners unfamiliar with hip-hop culture.
Kalush Orchestra Project
In 2021, the band launched a side project called Kalush Orchestra, focused on merging folk music with rap and electronic elements. It was this project that brought them international recognition. Kalush Orchestra emphasizes ethnic sounds, female vocals, and instrumental interludes while maintaining a hip-hop foundation.
Eurovision 2022
In 2022, Kalush Orchestra represented Ukraine at the Eurovision Song Contest with the song “Stefania”. The track was dedicated to Oleh Psyuk’s mother and became a symbol of love, memory, and strength. After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the song took on deeper meaning — as a hymn of resilience, struggle, and gratitude to mothers.
On May 14, 2022, Kalush Orchestra won Eurovision in Turin, receiving a record number of audience votes across Europe. Following the contest, the group embarked on a charity tour across 20 countries to raise funds in support of Ukraine.
Post-Victory and Global Recognition
After winning Eurovision 2022, Kalush achieved worldwide fame. Their music videos gained tens of millions of views, and their concerts sold out across the globe. The band toured extensively across Europe, the U.S., and Canada, performing at festivals and participating in cultural initiatives that promoted Ukrainian music and language abroad.
Social and Civic Engagement
Kalush is known for their strong civic stance. They openly support Ukraine’s independence, frequently participate in charity events, and donate a portion of concert proceeds to the Armed Forces of Ukraine and war victims.
Their songs often contain patriotic themes and messages about freedom, identity, and respect for national traditions.
Albums and Hits
The discography of Kalush and Kalush Orchestra includes numerous singles and several albums, such as:
- “HOTIN” (2021) — debut album that cemented their success.
- “Stefania” (2022) — the Eurovision-winning track.
- “Dom” — a heartfelt song about nostalgia and home.
- “Sho tam u khokhlov” — a satirical track with social irony.
- “Zoryanyi” — modern pop-rap with ethnic elements.
- “Changes” (2024) — an international release reflecting the band’s evolution.
Awards and Achievements
- Winner of Eurovision 2022.
- Millions of views on YouTube and streams on Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer.
- Participation in major European music festivals.
- Included in Forbes Ukraine’s “Top 100 Artists of Ukraine.”
- International awards for contributions to ethnic music.
Current Stage (2025)
In 2025, Kalush and Kalush Orchestra continue to tour and release new music. The band remains a vital cultural symbol of Ukraine, blending contemporary sound with traditional motifs and promoting Ukrainian music worldwide.
Conclusion
Kalush is more than just a music group — they are a cultural phenomenon shaping the new face of Ukraine’s pop and hip-hop scene. Their international success, meaningful lyrics, and ethnic sound have made them ambassadors of modern Ukrainian culture and a symbol of national resilience.
