July 31, 2025 • 34 mins
This podcast episode delves into the remarkable narrative of the Ukrainian pop duo, Molodi, whose profound connection to their homeland and artistic evolution is both compelling and illuminating. From their origins in Mariupol, Ukraine, to their current status as key figures in Kyiv's music scene, we examine their journey marked by resilience and creativity amid adversity. The discussion highlights their unique sound, which intricately blends elements of old pop and electronica, reflecting their personal experiences and the broader cultural context of conflict in Ukraine. Furthermore, we explore how their art serves not merely as entertainment but as a vessel for memory and a source of emotional processing, offering a voice to collective grief and hope. Ultimately, we invite listeners to appreciate how Molodi's music embodies the spirit of resilience and the transformative power of artistic expression, even in the face of profound challenges.
Who is
They started as a street duo in Mariupol—two friends with a guitar, a loop pedal, and a dream. But when war came to their city, Molodi lost everything… except their music.
Now based in Kyiv, Molodi—made up of Kyrylo Rohovyi and Ivan Stepanishchev—are creating haunting alt-pop anthems shaped by loss, survival, and the unbreakable spirit of Ukraine. Songs like ‘Bil’ and ‘Nezalezhnist’ aren’t just tracks—they’re documents of a generation caught between destruction and hope.
In this episode, we follow Molodi’s journey: from underground musicians to national voices, from occupied streets to festival stages. How does art survive war? What does it mean to rebuild your identity through music? And why are their harmonies hitting home for thousands of Ukrainians—and listeners far beyond?
This is the story of Molodi: raw, real, and rising from the ashes.
Links referenced in this episode:
Mark as Played
Transcript
Episode Transcript
Available transcripts are automatically generated. Complete accuracy is not guaranteed.
(00:00):
Okay, let's unpack this.
Today we're taking a deep diveinto the compelling story of a Ukrainian
old pop duo.
And for this deep dive, we'regoing straight in, really, with the
main question, who is Molodi?
Molodi, spelled in all caps, MO L O D I is a band with, well, a
truly powerful and kind ofunexpected origin story.
They originally hail fromMariupol, Ukraine, though they're
(00:21):
based in Kyiv now andofficially formed back in 2020.
Their sound is this reallycaptivating blend of old pop with
electronica, forging somethinggenuinely unique.
I Very contemporary.
Now, the group initiallystarted as a trio.
There was Kyrla Rohovi, IvanStepanishchev, and also Maikita Leontief,
who you might actually knownow is an Leo.
But today our focus is reallysquarely on Kirlo and Ivan, the core
(00:44):
duo of Melody.
And our mission with this deepdive really is to offer you a kind
of comprehensive shortcut, notjust to their discography, but to
understanding the.
The vibrant spirit behindthem, the profound resilience, the
deeply personal connection totheir homeland, all the things that
shape every single note they create.
It's a journey that revealshow their experiences, their natural
identity, are just woven sointricately into their art.
(01:05):
Exactly.
And what's truly fascinatinghere, I think, is that we're embarking
on a journey that goes waybeyond just looking at their release
tracks.
We're going to trace theirartistic evolution, you know, from
the very earliest sparks oftheir musical passion right up to
where they are now.
A really powerful voice inUkrainian music.
We'll explore thoseserendipitous moments that brought
(01:26):
them together, the really bolddecisions that defined their path,
and also how the challengingrealities of their lives, especially,
obviously, the conflict inUkraine, have profoundly influenced
their creative output andtheir personal stories.
This isn't just like a band profile.
It's really an exploration ofhow art becomes a testament to the
human spirit, particularlywhen facing adversity.
So let's begin right at thestart of their creative path, rooted
(01:49):
in their hometown, Mariupol, acity in the Donetsk oblast that,
as we all know, has sinceendured such unimaginable suffering.
Even before they officiallyformed Molodai, Kirillo and Ivan
had already begun theirmusical journey as a street band.
What was that early streetperforming like for them?
You know, setting the stagefor their future?
We know Ivan was drawn todrums and Carolo to the piano.
(02:11):
What did those formative yearsreally teach them about music, about
connecting with an audience,maybe about the sheer grind of Making
a living through their art,even before they had a proper name
for their group.
It's actually quite incrediblewhen you trace those very first steps.
You have to picture these twoyoung musicians, right?
Each kind of nurturing theirown thing.
Ivan on drums, Kirillo onpiano, and they're busking on the
streets of Mariupol.
(02:32):
This wasn't just like aweekend hobby.
It was their first real tasteof that raw, unfiltered interaction
between an artist and an audience.
They were learning, you know,how to read a crowd, how to adapt
on the fly, how to truly earntheir keep, basically through performance.
They mentioned playing almostanywhere they could find a spot.
Busy pedestrian areas, quitequieter corners.
(02:54):
Just honing their craft andbuilding that foundational connection
with strangers, that directfeedback, you know, the immediate
reward of a coin dropped intoa hat.
It forged a very pragmatic butalso deeply authentic understanding
of what it means to be a musician.
It definitely instilled aresilience and a resourcefulness
in them that would becomeabsolutely vital later on in their
journey.
(03:14):
And what's truly captivatingis how these two individuals, who
are already so clearlymusically inclined to actually met
each other.
Their paths took thisincredibly unexpected, almost ironic
turn, right after finishingninth grade.
They're only about 14, right?
What exactly happened there?
Yeah, this raises an importantquestion about destiny.
Almost, or maybe just pure chance.
Their parents, completelyindependently of each other, had
(03:37):
decided that their sons shouldpursue careers as electricians.
So just imagine the scene.
Two young aspiring musiciansmay be dreaming of stages being pushed
towards these preparatorycourses for entrance exams in maths
and Ukrainian language,subjects that probably felt light
years away from a drum kit ora piano.
Right?
And it was right there, inthis seemingly unrelated academic
(03:58):
setting, this place designedto prepare them for a completely
different, very practicalfuture, that Kirilo and Ivan first
crossed paths.
It's kind of a classic story,isn't it?
The parental nudge towardspracticality that ironically backfired,
well, spectacularly in thiscase, because that's where their
initial shared bond wasforged, apparently.
The parents perhaps trying toincentivize them and had even offered
(04:19):
to pay for these courses they mentioned.
A sum of money the boysquickly realized was for the instructors,
not some future engineering salary.
It's quite a testament,really, to how fate can intervene,
bringing together twoindividuals who were clearly meant
to create music, even if theirfirst steps were guided by very pragmatic
rather than artistic considerations.
Right.
So their journey then ledthem, quite unexpectedly, perhaps,
(04:41):
to Kyiv.
They actually enrolled in KPI,the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, to
Study electricity.
I mean, this still seems likea complete deviation from their musical
passions.
So what prompted that reallysignificant decision to leave university
after just the first year tochoose instead to pursue music full
time without getting their diplomas?
That's a pretty bold move foranyone, let alone young guys still
(05:02):
finding their way.
What was the catalyst for sucha drastic change?
Well, what's truly compellinghere, and kind of the turning point,
was this pivotal moment thathappened very shortly after they
arrived in Kyiv and startedtheir university studies.
It was in October, so justabout a month after they started
uni, that they met someone whooffered them access to a professional
recording studio.
And this became a completegame changer.
(05:23):
It basically transformed theiracademic path into an unstoppable
full time musical mission.
The arrangement itself waspretty ingenious.
They could work on songs forsale, you know, for other artists
earning a commission fromthose projects.
And crucially, the big carrotwas they could use the studio for
their own music for free, aslong as it didn't interfere with
the paid work.
(05:43):
So this immediate opportunityled them to dedicate just incredibly
long hours to making music.
Often, they said, from 10am to10pm, just immersing themselves completely
in their craft.
They tried, you know, tonavigate the demands of their university
courses by leveraging onlinelearning, often making excuses like
being temporarily at thestudio to their parents back home.
They even mentioned this funnydetail about their parents being
(06:06):
able to track theirwhereabouts via gps, which probably
revealed their true musicfocused activities, despite their
assurances that everything wasfine with their studies.
It's a real testament to theirdeep commitment.
Right.
They were literally living,breathing and trying to financially
sustain their musical passion,even if it meant, well, a fair bit
of fibbing to their parents.
(06:27):
Wow.
And what happened next withtheir academic journey is quite something.
So they're pulling these hugehours basically living in the studio,
kind of hiding it from their parents.
What was the ultimateconsequence of that commitment on
their studies?
It sounds like theirdetachment from university eventually
reached a, well, a breakingpoint, which led to their official
withdrawal from KPI.
(06:47):
How did this dramatic turn ofevents where they apparently failed
eight subjects each, how didthat solidify their resolve to just
embrace playing on the streetsas their main way forward?
It feels like they weren'tjust dropping out, they were kind
of forced out.
Yet it somehow became thisclear path for them.
Was there maybe even a senseof relief almost in going back to
what they knew?
Absolutely.
(07:07):
I think you're right.
It wasn't really seen as a defeat.
It was almost a liberation ina way.
A return to a familiar andproven strategy that felt much more
authentic to them.
Their immediate thought,apparently upon failing so many subjects,
was decisive.
Well, okay, we'll just play onthe streets.
This wasn't like a sad lament.
It was a pragmatic, almostdefiant return to what they knew
(07:28):
and loved doing.
And this experience tieddirectly back to their earlier days
as street musicians back inMariupol, where they'd learned to
rely on their art to sustain themselves.
So their experience performingin public spaces in Kyiv, specifically,
they mentioned that thebustling subway passage near Main
Don's Globus entrance to thatbecome a vital strategy, not just
for income, but crucially, for networking.
(07:50):
It was right there, amidst thenoise and the commuters, that a chance
encounter happened.
A girl recognized their rawtalent and invited them to play at
an Apartment concert.
And this wasn't just a single gig.
It created this profoundsnowball effect.
That first apartment concertopened doors to more performances,
and it gradually integratedthem into Keev's vibrant musical
(08:10):
get together, which soundslike this loose, organic collective
of artists, open mics, jamsessions, the whole thing that really
fuels the city's independentmusic scene.
It just demonstrates theincredible power of grassroots connections,
doesn't it?
And how their raw, authenticapproach to music, the one they developed
on the streets, allowed themto organically weave themselves into
(08:30):
the city's artistic fabric.
They essentially turned anacademic setback into a launchpad
for their true calling.
Their ability to connectdirectly with people, even in those
casual settings, proved waymore valuable than any formal degree
could have been.
It's truly fascinating howthose street performances became
this kind of unintendednetworking hub for them.
And speaking of their uniqueconnections, that authenticity seems
(08:52):
to spill right into the verycore of their artistry, their music
itself.
Melody is known for thisdistinctive blend of alt pop and
electronica.
How does that signature soundreally manifest across their discography,
which properly kicked off in 2022?
Are there particular sonicelements, you know, things you can
point to that define theirunique fusion?
Yeah, if we connect this tothe bigger picture, their sound isn't
(09:14):
just a simple mix of genres.
It's actually a prettysophisticated interplay between them.
Muladi blends the raw, oftenquite introspective lyricism and
maybe unconventional songstructures you find in alt pop, with
the atmospheric textures andthe driving synthesized beats that
are really characteristic of electronica.
So when you listen to theirtracks, you might hear, say, a very
vulnerable, almost acousticsounding vocal line, and then that's
(09:38):
immediately followed by, like,a soaring synth pad that creates
this Vast emotive soundscape,or maybe a crisp arpeggiated bass
line that grounds it in areally modern electronic groove.
They frequently use digitaldrum machines to lay down these precise,
energetic rhythms, which thensupport Kirillo's really expressive
vocals and Ivan's layered instrumentation.
(09:59):
It's this constant push andpull, you could say, between organic
human emotion and digitalprecision that really defines their
signature sound.
And their very first single,Nezzeles, the that's Independence,
released in 2022, is apowerful example of this.
Right from the start, it wasactually a collaboration with singers
Ostrovsky and Kelceimmediately marking their entrance
with a strong, very relevantmessage for the time.
(10:21):
And it seems their musicalmost immediately became a direct
reflection of the reallyimpactful, heavy events unfolding
in Ukraine.
What's crucial here is whatcame right after Nes Lezhynist, isn't
it?
Indeed.
What's absolute vital tounderstand about their early releases
is the profound personal andnational significance of their next
track, which is Bill, whichtranslates simply as Pain.
(10:41):
This track was written veryshortly after Nesolezionist, specifically
in response to the full scaleoccupation of Mariupol, their beloved
hometown.
So just think about that sequence.
You have Independence as theirdebut, a strong statement of national
identity, quickly followed byPain, this raw, immediate emotional
processing of immensecollective trauma happening right
(11:02):
then.
This immediate link betweenthe early releases and the devastating,
devastating events in Ukrainejust highlights how their music became
a direct, poignant reflectionof their own experiences and the
broader national feeling.
Their art wasn't just aboutentertainment from the get go.
It was a direct response toand an emotional processing of the
profound challenges theircountry was facing.
(11:22):
It established their musicright from the outset as deeply authentic,
deeply connected to therealities of their lives, and really
a voice for their homeland.
And their output since thenhas been incredibly prolific, especially
considering everything.
Since 2022 there's been thissteady stream of singles.
It's truly impressive.
Beyond Nizzleznest and Bill,let's maybe shine a light on some
of their other successful tracks.
(11:43):
They've released songs likeDim, which means Home, Nizabudu,
ZVNA Palavinu, I Live HalfHeartedly and Skarb or Treasure,
which was that collaborationwith the singer Michelle Andrade.
Their discography alsoincludes tracks like Kino, Nikoli,
Dopamojet, Krapliami,Duboikovryu, Yania and Serenade.
(12:04):
That's quite a list already.
And Looking ahead, their 2025releases apparently include My Sea,
an acoustic version calledMoye Mor and Odin Emilian.
They've clearly beenincredibly busy ensuring a consistent
presence and also allowingtheir sound to evolve.
Absolutely.
And if we delve into some ofthose tracks you mention, we start
to really see the nuances oftheir sound develop.
Dim Home, for instance, oftencarries this more melancholic, yearning
(12:29):
quality.
You hear layered vocals and asort of subtle electronic pulse that
evokes a profound sense oflonging, maybe for a lost place,
a home that's now tragically changed.
Then maybe Nezabudu I Won'tForget might lean more into the driving
synth pop elements, reflectingperhaps a more defiant stance, a
refusal to let go of memoriesor crucial experiences.
(12:49):
Then you have something likeJuvena Polavinho, I Live Half Heartedly,
which often features a moreintimate, almost fragile acoustic
electronic sound.
It really highlights theirversatility and emotional range,
capturing that very realfeeling of living with a part of
yourself Missing and ScarbTreasure with Michelle Andrade that
showcases their ability toblend their signature electronic
(13:11):
textures with another artist'sdistinct vocal style, creating a
more dynamic, expansive soundthat maybe hints at broader collaborations
in the future.
Each track, while fittingwithin their core alt pop electronica
blend, definitely carves outits own unique emotional landscape,
reflecting the multifacetedreality of their experiences.
Now let's zoom in on oneparticular song you mentioned, Sance,
(13:31):
which translates to Sun.
What's the deeply personalnarrative behind this specific track?
Ivan apparently describes itas a two or three year old summer
history, recounting a shortbut very turbulent romance that shaped
the song's lyrics and mood.
It sounds like it's drawndirectly from his own life, a truly
authentic piece ofstorytelling through music.
Yes, and what's trulyfascinating here is Cirillo's own
(13:53):
poignant reflection on writing Sansei.
He initially believed thelyrics weren't directly about his
own experiences.
He actually said, when I wrotethis, I didn't think it was what
I was going through.
But then later he had thiskind of aha moment, this profound
realization that the lyricsprecisely mirrored a real life romantic
encounter he had experienced.
He vividly recalled giving hisshirt for warmth to a girl they were
(14:15):
with by the sea, embracingamid the darkness, with distant lightning
flashing.
He recounted the scene quite poetically.
We met at night, went to thesea, I gave her my shirt, we came
to the sea, sat down and br.
It was very cool darkness, alittle cold and in the distance in
the sea, such lightning.
It just reveals how deeplytheir personal lives are woven into
their creative fabric,sometimes even subconsciously.
(14:36):
Right?
With memories surfacing toform the very essence of their lyrics.
And furthermore Both Kirlo andIvan deeply consider Sansei, a Mariupol
song.
It evokes this intensenostalgia for their hometown, which
they describe quitebeautifully as a city of first kisses
and bold, bright feelings.
So this dual layer, the deeplypersonal romantic experience and
the profound connection totheir roots, makes the song incredibly
(14:59):
resonant and emotionally charged.
It serves as a powerfultribute to a cherished past and a
reminder of profound beautythat still lives within them even
as their city suffers so much.
So, given everything happeningin Ukraine, what does this all mean?
In the context of a nation atwar, Melody apparently faced questions
about the appropriateness ofreleasing love songs.
One might think it's somehowout of touch, or not the right focus.
(15:22):
But what was their power?
Powerful, and it sounds likeunequivocal response, asserting that
love is an eternal theme thatmust always be uplifted.
Was there ever any internaldebate about that?
Do we know?
Or maybe internal criticismthey might have faced for not focusing
solely on patriotic themes.
That's an incredibly importantquestion to consider and their response
is truly profound.
(15:42):
I think they articulated thatcontinuing to live and express love
is not merely appropriate, butactually a profound way to honor
those who are protecting theirnation, particularly the armed forces
of Ukraine, the zsu, you whomake their very existence and artistic
expression possible.
They stated unequivocally thatlove is an eternal theme, a fundamental
human emotion that must alwaysbe celebrated and uplifted, regardless
(16:05):
of the external circumstances.
And this isn't just likesimple sentimentality.
It's a form of artisticdefiance, really, a declaration that
war will not diminish theircapacity for joy, for connection,
for the very emotions theirsoldiers are fighting to protect.
While the sources we looked atdon't detail specific internal debates
or external criticisms theymight have faced, their firm stance
(16:25):
certainly suggests anawareness that such questions might
arise.
They clearly believe thattheir art serves a higher purpose,
one that goes beyond just theimmediate call to arms or solely
patriotic messaging andconnecting this to the bigger picture.
Their perspective on lovesongs goes far beyond just sentiment.
They actually discuss music'sbroader, profound role as a form
of psychotherapy.
That's the word they used.
(16:46):
They explain how their musicaims to directly influence listeners
mental states, providing thispowerful channel for emotional release,
allowing people to cry,reflect and recall memories.
Kira Lowe articulated thisbeautifully, saying, music is a very
important tool for influencingthe mental state.
It's not just to listen andsmile, it is to listen and cry and
(17:07):
to listen and rethinksomething, to listen and immerse
yourself in some memories.
So this positions their artnot just as entertainment, but as
a vital tool for emotionalprocessing and resilience, especially
in such challenging times.
It's a way for people to cope,maybe find a voice for their own
feelings and to remember thebeauty and normalcy that stands,
still, exists or existed evenamidst profound struggle.
(17:29):
They seem to see themselves asmore than just musicians.
They're almost like culturaltherapists, helping their audience
navigate complex emotionsthrough the shared experience of
sound, creating a space forcommunal grieving, reflection and
ultimately maybe finding apath forward.
That's a really powerful wayto frame their artistic mission.
Now let's shift gears slightlyand discuss their journey with Eurovision.
The information we havereveals this really fascinating timeline
(17:52):
that seems to show, well, areal testament to their persistence.
We have one account from aninterview that suggests that at the
time of recording, they hadapplied for Vidbeer 2025, that's
Ukraine's national selectionfor Eurovision, but hadn't actually
made the long list.
They even mentioned a specificsong called Maria, meaning Dream,
that they had submitted.
They called it a Grand Prixsong that they planned to release
(18:14):
later anyway.
However, another sourceclearly states that on December 20,
2024, it was announced thatMelody would participate in Vidbier
2025 with a different song, MySee, and they ultimately finished
in second place in the finalon February 8, 2025.
This seems like acontradiction, or at least a very
interesting progression of events.
What's going on there?
Yeah, right.
(18:35):
This raises an important question.
How do we reconcile these twoseemingly contradictory pieces of
information?
Well, this discrepancy pointsdirectly to the timing of that interview.
It was almost certainlyconducted before their official selection
for Vidbir 2025 with my C wasrevealed to the public.
So they were likely discussingtheir previous submission attempt
with the song, which at thatpoint had unfortunately not made
(18:57):
the cut.
And this situation justvividly highlights the remarkable
persistence, doesn't it?
And the eventual triumph oftheir talent.
They moved from what must havebeen an initial setback, not making
the long list with Maria, tothis really significant achievement,
not only securing a spot laterwith My Sea, but ultimately finishing
in a very strong second placein a major national competition.
(19:19):
It's a powerful testament totheir unwavering determination and
the undeniable quality qualityof their music eventually breaking
through.
It just proves that sometimesinitial rejections are just detours
on the path to success, youknow, and that dedication to creating
powerful music, regardless ofthose initial outcomes, ultimately
pays off.
They clearly didn't give upafter the first disappointment, and
(19:39):
that resilience led to a hugemoment for them on the national stage?
Absolutely.
Beyond their impressivemusical output and their journey
through the, let's say, upsand downs of the industry, let's
explore how melody connectswith people in a more personal level.
They shared this reallyinteresting observation that finding
long term connections withindividuals is often actually more
challenging for them thanconnecting with a broad audience
(20:01):
through their music.
What does this insight revealabout the intricate dynamics of navigating
both the music industry, whichoften requires that wide reach, and
personal relationships whichdemand depth and consistency?
It suggests a uniqueperspective on connection itself.
Yeah, and what's fascinatinghere is how they're key.
Professional collaborationsseem to have frequently stemmed from
(20:22):
these unexpected informalinteractions almost entirely organically,
rather than through, say,traditional industry channels or
formal meetings.
For instance, Carrillo'schance encounter with Ostrovsky,
who runs the Mako Music labelthey're now on.
It happened at a gym in Kyiv,apparently very shortly after they
first arrive, maybe around May 25.
(20:43):
Carolo recounted seeingOstrovsky, whom he described as just
a cool guy, at the gym.
He later found him on TikTokafter Ostrovsky had made a Ukrainian
language version of a songthat really resonated with Kirillo.
So instead of some formalpitch meeting, Kirlo simply messaged
him, mentioning basically,hey, we saw you at the gym, we also
make music, let's maybe collaborate.
Ostrovsky liked their music,they started working together and
(21:05):
eventually they became adirect part of his label, just like
that.
And similarly, rememberKirillo's street performance in that
subway passage in Kyiv, whichmirrored their early days in Mariupol
that resulted in a girl simplytaking his contact details and then
inviting them to an apartment concert.
And that single apartmentconcert then became this pivotal
moment, opening doors to awider network of gigs and fully integrating
(21:26):
them into Keev's vibrantmusical get together, that organic,
bustling collective ofindependent artists, producers and
informal venues.
It just illustrates theincredibly serendipitous and grassroots
way their career seems to havedeveloped through genuine personal
connections forged in everyday moments.
It really underscores theirbelief, maybe, that deep long term
(21:46):
connections are hard won, butincredibly impactful when they do
form.
They didn't seem to seek outthese opportunities through rigid
strategies.
They just arose from thembeing present, authentic and engaging
with people around them.
Mariupol, it's their hometown,a city that, as we've said, has endured
such immense suffering.
How are the devastating eventsthere personally impacted Kirlo and
(22:06):
Ivan?
They describe the initialdisbelief, the brutal escalation
of the conflict, mentioningthe horrific bombings of the maternity
hospital and the drama theaterand the profound emotional toll it
continues to take.
Kirilo recounts spontaneouslycrying just upon seeing a Mariupol
sign somewhere in Kyiv.
It suggests this deep, perhapseven suppressed grief that just surfaces
(22:26):
unexpectedly.
It's such a stark reminder ofthe enduring scars of conflict and
the visceral pain of losingone's home.
Yeah.
And if we connect this to thebigger picture, their experiences
relating to Mariupol are notjust about the city itself, the place.
It's about the profound,irreplaceable personal losses they've
endured as a directconsequence of the conflict.
Carolo tragically lost a veryclose friend named Sane.
(22:49):
He described him as a peacefulcivilian who died in Mariupol.
Kirilo recounted spendingentire days with Sane just playing
music together, playingPlayStation, drinking tea, talking
for hours.
He emphasized how much Saneinfluenced him, both as a musician
and just as a person.
And the casual normalcy hedescribed in those memories makes
the loss feel even moreheartbreaking, doesn't it?
And then Ivan's story.
(23:11):
His father devastatingly wentmissing in Mariupol.
Ivan shared the ongoing agonyof simply not knowing his fate.
He said, my father wentmissing in Mariupol, and the police
call me sometimes to confirminformation because, well, he's just
missing.
That is, he wasn't on any listof those leaving Mariupol or those
entering Zaporizhzhia or thosewho were already, well, posthumously
identified.
There's just no officialrecord, only this agonizing void
(23:33):
of not knowing.
And furthermore, Ivan'syounger brother apparently remains
stuck there in Mariupol inwhat sounds like an incredibly difficult
situation, adding anotherlayer of constant worry and helplessness.
For him, these deeply personaltragedies offer such a profoundly
human and heartbreakingperspective on the broader conflict.
They illustrate the intimateways war impacts individual lives,
(23:55):
tearing families apart,leaving behind this trail of unanswered
questions and just enduringsilent pain.
You feel like their musicbecomes a vessel for carrying this
immense personal burden.
It's almost unbearable tothink about.
And Carolo profoundly stated,when the dead are not remembered,
they die a second time.
How does this deeply heldbelief fuel his determination to
(24:16):
keep Sanay's memory alive,Even by performing a dedicated song
for him at every singleacoustic concert they do?
And what about their intentions?
To incorporate Sanaa's ownmusical material into Melody's future
work?
Perhaps through remakes orcovers, ensuring his creative spirit
lives on through their art.
It feels like such a powerfulact of remembrance, embodying their
commitment to honoring those lost.
(24:37):
Absolutely.
That statement From Kirilo,when the dead are not remembered,
they die a second time.
It feels like a corephilosophy for him, and it beautifully
illustrates how their musicbecomes this powerful vessel for
memory and also a profoundcoping mechanism.
The act of transformingpersonal pain and tragedy into art
not only helps them processtheir own grief, but it also creates
(24:58):
something resonant andenduring for their listeners.
Kirilo emphasized this,stating, when good people leave life,
their memory should live on.
So by integrating Sanae'smaterial, they mentioned planning
remix or covers, and byperforming that dedicated song for
him at every acoustic concert.
Apparently it's a song calledYanya, a track that existed before
melody, and truly expresses apart of Sanae's spirit.
(25:19):
They feel by doing this,they're not just remembering a friend,
they are actively fightingagainst that second death he spoke
of.
They're ensuring that hisspirit, and by extension maybe the
broader experience of allthose who suffered in Mariupol, remains
alive in the collective consciousness.
Through the universal languageof music.
Their art becomes this livingmemorial, a source of solace for
themselves and a powerfulmessage of remembrance for their
(25:42):
audience.
It's an active, ongoingprocess of turning immense loss into
enduring meaning.
It's incredibly moving howthey channel that personal grief
into something so meaningful,not just for them, but for a wider
audience.
And thinking about Mariupolbefore the full scale invasion, the
city actually underwent thisremarkable transformation starting
around 2016.
What vivid and inspiringdetails did they share about their
(26:05):
city's renewal during that time?
They described the restorationof all the parks, particularly one
called Veselka on the Left Bank.
Apparently it was transformedfrom an old park known for some rather
curious 2 meter dinosaurfigures, into this truly vibrant
space.
They mentioned huge flowerbeds with various tulips, beautiful
lighting, and even in groundtrampolines, it became a really popular
(26:28):
spot for photoshoots.
It sounds like it wasgenuinely a city on the rise, which
makes the current devastationeven more poignant somehow.
Exactly.
Those specific vivid detailsabout Mariupol's recent vibrant past
add another really cruciallayer to their current experiences
of grief and hope.
It paints such a clear pictureof what was thriving and what was
(26:48):
cherished, which furtheremphasizes the profound sense of
loss now.
But it also seems to fueltheir dreams for its future and reinforces
their continued unwaveringconnection to their homeland.
The transformation of a parkwith, yes, 2 meter dinosaur figures
into this modern, beautifulspace with huge flower beds of various
tulips and in ground trampolines.
That isn't just a physicalchange, is it?
(27:10):
It represents a spirit ofprogress of joy, of community that
they deeply miss and clearlyardently hope to see restored someday.
It speaks to a city that wasactively rebuilding itself, investing
in its public spaces andfostering this real sense of pride
and dynamism.
So this vivid memory of aflourishing Mariupol reinforces the
profound impact of its currenttragic state, of course, but it also
(27:31):
serves as a powerfulinspiration for their music, which
often carries those themes oflonging, resilience, and the enduring
human sense spirit.
It's a constant reminder,maybe, of what they're fighting for,
both personally and throughtheir art.
The recovery of that vibrantspirit of a city that was truly blossoming.
Okay, let's unpack theirvision for the future.
Now let's turn our attentionto their aspirations.
(27:53):
Kirilo notably prefers tospeak of goals rather than dreams,
which is interesting in itself.
He described this fascinatingevolution in his ambition from initially
just wanting to be heard by asmall, appreciative audience.
He now desires to reach a verylarge audience and play big concerts.
And he articulated this wishto be heard not just as an artist
(28:14):
through his songs, but also asa person.
He drew inspiration fromartists like Monatich, who apparently
integrate spoken word tracksinto their albums to convey deeper
thoughts.
This shift suggests a growingdesire for broader impact, maybe
a more intimate, authenticconnection with their listeners beyond
just the music.
What does this deeperaspiration signify for them, do you
think?
Yeah.
(28:34):
This raises an importantquestion, doesn't it?
What does this express shiftin ambition signify about their growth
not just as musicians, but asindividuals navigating a really complex
world?
Kirillo's desire to be heardby a very large audience and play
big concerts, moving from thatmore intimate initial goal, it definitely
reflects a growing maturity intheir artistic vision.
It reflects a desire forbroader cultural impact, I think,
(28:57):
and a deeper, more directconnection with their audience, moving
beyond just entertainment intoa space of perhaps cultural commentary
and influence.
His aspiration to be heard asa person like Monatique, who just
talks and conveys some thoughton his albums.
That really speaks to a desireto leverage their platform for more
profound communication.
It seems it's about sharingnot just melodies and rhythms, but
(29:18):
also their deepest thoughts,their experiences, their perspectives
on life and the world,creating a more comprehensive voice
in the cultural landscape.
It indicates a readinessperhaps to embrace a larger public
role, moving from maybe aniche appeal towards becoming a more
resonant and influential presence.
That's a powerful anddefinitely evolved vision.
And Ivan also articulatesambitious goals for their music,
(29:41):
specifically wishing for it tobe in the Pops Globally.
What is their broader visionfor Ukrainian music on the world
stage?
How do they aim for it to berecognized as stylish and cool with
their music, actually helpingpeople worldwide?
This feels like it's not justabout personal success for them.
It's really about elevatingtheir national culture and demonstrating
its artistic prowess to aglobal audience for sure.
(30:03):
And this ambition is reallyunderpinned by their unwavering commitment
to a DIY do it yourselfapproach in their production.
They handle absolutelyeverything themselves, from the very
initial lyrics right throughto the final mixing and mastering.
Ivan articulated this clearly,saying, we do everything ourselves
from the very beginning, fromthe first lines of the song to mixing
(30:23):
and mastering ourselves.
Now, this level of completecontrol over their creative process
isn't just about maintaining independence.
It directly contributes totheir ambitious goal of achieving
what they call an Americanlevel sound and production quality.
They explain they try to raisethe level of our professionalism
very high.
To be on the same level asAmerica, for example, constantly
(30:44):
listening to and analyzinghigh quality music from around the
globe to hone their own craft.
This dedication reallyunderscores their pursuit of professional
excellence and artistic integrity.
They want to ensure that everyaspect of their sound meets a global
standard.
So by meticulously craftingtheir music themselves, they ensure
that the authenticity of theirUkrainian voice is presented with
(31:05):
international grade production.
And that helps positionUkrainian music as stylish and cool
on the world stage.
Just as they hope theirpassion for their craft is just inextricably
linked to their pride in theirnational identity and their aspiration
for its global recognition.
And finally, as artists, theystrongly emphasize the importance
of creating music theygenuinely love.
(31:26):
How does this personalsatisfaction, this alignment with
their own artisticpreferences, influence their creative
process and what we canperhaps anticipate from their future
output?
It sounds like authenticity isjust a core principle for them, guiding
their choices and ensuringtheir music truly comes from the
heart.
Yeah.
Concluding this section, it'sabundantly clear there's this powerful,
almost symbiotic blend ofpersonal and national ambition in
(31:50):
their goals.
Their desire for globalrecognition extends far beyond just
personal fame.
It's deeply intertwined withelevating Ukrainian culture and artistry
on the world stage, makingsure their nation's voice is heard
and appreciated internationally.
And their fundamentalcommitment to creating music they
personally love is absolutelycentral to this whole vision.
(32:10):
As Cirlo put it, I think whenthe author can say about himself
that now we are making musicthat we like, it's very cool.
This personal satisfaction,this internal validation, it's the
fuel for their creativity.
It ensures that their outputwill not only be of exceptionally
high quality, meticulouslyproduced, as we discussed, but it
will also carry this genuineemotional weight.
(32:30):
This dedication to selffulfillment in their art ensures
that what we hear from Modiwill always be authentic.
Resonating deeply withlisteners, hopefully globally, and
serving as a compellingambassador for Ukrainian identity,
resilience and the universalpower of creative expression.
It's an inspiring testament,really, to art, born from conviction
and deep passion.
So what does this all mean for us?
(32:51):
We've taken a deep dive intothe compelling world of Molodai.
From their unexpectedbeginnings as street musicians in
Mariupol, remember, pushedtowards an electrical engineering
path that ironically broughtthem together to their current status
as a rising old pop duo makingsignificant waves in Kyiv and increasingly
beyond.
Their story is one ofserendipitous meetings, bold life
decisions, unwaveringdedication to their art, and this
(33:14):
profound intimate connectionto their homeland, especially, of
course, Mariupol.
Indeed, we've explored theirincredible journey, marked by profound
personal resilience and adeep, enduring connection to their
roots.
We've seen how their uniqueapproach to creating music, often
deeply personal, reflective oftheir experiences, resonates universally,
serving not just asentertainment, but as they put it,
(33:35):
as a form of therapy, a vesselfor memory and maybe a beacon of
hope.
Their ambitious vision aimsnot only for personal success, but
also to elevate Ukrainianartistry on the global stage, ensuring
that their nation's voice isheard and appreciated internationally.
Their story just powerfullyunderscores how art can be a testament
to the enduring human spirit,even, or perhaps especially, in the
face of immense adversity.
(33:57):
And for you, our listener,here's maybe a final provocative
thought to ponder.
What does it truly mean tocreate and thrive amidst profound
adversity?
Moloti's journey suggests thatauthenticity, resilience and a deep
connection to one's roots cantransform personal pain and collective
struggle into art that notonly endures, but inspires hope,
(34:17):
connection and maybe a deeperunderstanding of the human experience.
How might their examplechallenge or perhaps inform your
own understanding ofcreativity and persistence when faced
with life greatest challenges?
We definitely encourage you toexplore their discography, if you
haven't already, perhapsstarting with the evocative Sants,
to really experience the depthof their artistry and to reflect
on how their personal storiesinfuse their sound, and given their
(34:41):
prolific output and commitmentto excellence, eagerly anticipate
their upcoming album as theycontinue to create.
Melody's music promises to bea vibrant testament to resilience,
identity and the indomitablespirit of creativity that can blossom
even in the most challengingof times.
Okay, let's unpack this.
Today we're taking a deep diveinto the compelling story of a Ukrainian
old pop duo.
And for this deep dive, we'regoing straight in, really, with the
main question, who is Molodi?
Molodi, spelled in all caps, MO L O D I is a band with, well, a
truly powerful and kind ofunexpected origin story.
They originally hail fromMariupol, Ukraine, though they're
(00:21):
based in Kyiv now andofficially formed back in 2020.
Their sound is this reallycaptivating blend of old pop with
electronica, forging somethinggenuinely unique.
I Very contemporary.
Now, the group initiallystarted as a trio.
There was Kyrla Rohovi, IvanStepanishchev, and also Maikita Leontief,
who you might actually knownow is an Leo.
But today our focus is reallysquarely on Kirlo and Ivan, the core
(00:44):
duo of Melody.
And our mission with this deepdive really is to offer you a kind
of comprehensive shortcut, notjust to their discography, but to
understanding the.
The vibrant spirit behindthem, the profound resilience, the
deeply personal connection totheir homeland, all the things that
shape every single note they create.
It's a journey that revealshow their experiences, their natural
identity, are just woven sointricately into their art.
(01:05):
Exactly.
And what's truly fascinatinghere, I think, is that we're embarking
on a journey that goes waybeyond just looking at their release
tracks.
We're going to trace theirartistic evolution, you know, from
the very earliest sparks oftheir musical passion right up to
where they are now.
A really powerful voice inUkrainian music.
We'll explore thoseserendipitous moments that brought
(01:26):
them together, the really bolddecisions that defined their path,
and also how the challengingrealities of their lives, especially,
obviously, the conflict inUkraine, have profoundly influenced
their creative output andtheir personal stories.
This isn't just like a band profile.
It's really an exploration ofhow art becomes a testament to the
human spirit, particularlywhen facing adversity.
So let's begin right at thestart of their creative path, rooted
(01:49):
in their hometown, Mariupol, acity in the Donetsk oblast that,
as we all know, has sinceendured such unimaginable suffering.
Even before they officiallyformed Molodai, Kirillo and Ivan
had already begun theirmusical journey as a street band.
What was that early streetperforming like for them?
You know, setting the stagefor their future?
We know Ivan was drawn todrums and Carolo to the piano.
(02:11):
What did those formative yearsreally teach them about music, about
connecting with an audience,maybe about the sheer grind of Making
a living through their art,even before they had a proper name
for their group.
It's actually quite incrediblewhen you trace those very first steps.
You have to picture these twoyoung musicians, right?
Each kind of nurturing theirown thing.
Ivan on drums, Kirillo onpiano, and they're busking on the
streets of Mariupol.
(02:32):
This wasn't just like aweekend hobby.
It was their first real tasteof that raw, unfiltered interaction
between an artist and an audience.
They were learning, you know,how to read a crowd, how to adapt
on the fly, how to truly earntheir keep, basically through performance.
They mentioned playing almostanywhere they could find a spot.
Busy pedestrian areas, quitequieter corners.
(02:54):
Just honing their craft andbuilding that foundational connection
with strangers, that directfeedback, you know, the immediate
reward of a coin dropped intoa hat.
It forged a very pragmatic butalso deeply authentic understanding
of what it means to be a musician.
It definitely instilled aresilience and a resourcefulness
in them that would becomeabsolutely vital later on in their
journey.
(03:14):
And what's truly captivatingis how these two individuals, who
are already so clearlymusically inclined to actually met
each other.
Their paths took thisincredibly unexpected, almost ironic
turn, right after finishingninth grade.
They're only about 14, right?
What exactly happened there?
Yeah, this raises an importantquestion about destiny.
Almost, or maybe just pure chance.
Their parents, completelyindependently of each other, had
(03:37):
decided that their sons shouldpursue careers as electricians.
So just imagine the scene.
Two young aspiring musiciansmay be dreaming of stages being pushed
towards these preparatorycourses for entrance exams in maths
and Ukrainian language,subjects that probably felt light
years away from a drum kit ora piano.
Right?
And it was right there, inthis seemingly unrelated academic
(03:58):
setting, this place designedto prepare them for a completely
different, very practicalfuture, that Kirilo and Ivan first
crossed paths.
It's kind of a classic story,isn't it?
The parental nudge towardspracticality that ironically backfired,
well, spectacularly in thiscase, because that's where their
initial shared bond wasforged, apparently.
The parents perhaps trying toincentivize them and had even offered
(04:19):
to pay for these courses they mentioned.
A sum of money the boysquickly realized was for the instructors,
not some future engineering salary.
It's quite a testament,really, to how fate can intervene,
bringing together twoindividuals who were clearly meant
to create music, even if theirfirst steps were guided by very pragmatic
rather than artistic considerations.
Right.
So their journey then ledthem, quite unexpectedly, perhaps,
(04:41):
to Kyiv.
They actually enrolled in KPI,the Kyiv Polytechnic Institute, to
Study electricity.
I mean, this still seems likea complete deviation from their musical
passions.
So what prompted that reallysignificant decision to leave university
after just the first year tochoose instead to pursue music full
time without getting their diplomas?
That's a pretty bold move foranyone, let alone young guys still
(05:02):
finding their way.
What was the catalyst for sucha drastic change?
Well, what's truly compellinghere, and kind of the turning point,
was this pivotal moment thathappened very shortly after they
arrived in Kyiv and startedtheir university studies.
It was in October, so justabout a month after they started
uni, that they met someone whooffered them access to a professional
recording studio.
And this became a completegame changer.
(05:23):
It basically transformed theiracademic path into an unstoppable
full time musical mission.
The arrangement itself waspretty ingenious.
They could work on songs forsale, you know, for other artists
earning a commission fromthose projects.
And crucially, the big carrotwas they could use the studio for
their own music for free, aslong as it didn't interfere with
the paid work.
(05:43):
So this immediate opportunityled them to dedicate just incredibly
long hours to making music.
Often, they said, from 10am to10pm, just immersing themselves completely
in their craft.
They tried, you know, tonavigate the demands of their university
courses by leveraging onlinelearning, often making excuses like
being temporarily at thestudio to their parents back home.
They even mentioned this funnydetail about their parents being
(06:06):
able to track theirwhereabouts via gps, which probably
revealed their true musicfocused activities, despite their
assurances that everything wasfine with their studies.
It's a real testament to theirdeep commitment.
Right.
They were literally living,breathing and trying to financially
sustain their musical passion,even if it meant, well, a fair bit
of fibbing to their parents.
(06:27):
Wow.
And what happened next withtheir academic journey is quite something.
So they're pulling these hugehours basically living in the studio,
kind of hiding it from their parents.
What was the ultimateconsequence of that commitment on
their studies?
It sounds like theirdetachment from university eventually
reached a, well, a breakingpoint, which led to their official
withdrawal from KPI.
(06:47):
How did this dramatic turn ofevents where they apparently failed
eight subjects each, how didthat solidify their resolve to just
embrace playing on the streetsas their main way forward?
It feels like they weren'tjust dropping out, they were kind
of forced out.
Yet it somehow became thisclear path for them.
Was there maybe even a senseof relief almost in going back to
what they knew?
Absolutely.
(07:07):
I think you're right.
It wasn't really seen as a defeat.
It was almost a liberation ina way.
A return to a familiar andproven strategy that felt much more
authentic to them.
Their immediate thought,apparently upon failing so many subjects,
was decisive.
Well, okay, we'll just play onthe streets.
This wasn't like a sad lament.
It was a pragmatic, almostdefiant return to what they knew
(07:28):
and loved doing.
And this experience tieddirectly back to their earlier days
as street musicians back inMariupol, where they'd learned to
rely on their art to sustain themselves.
So their experience performingin public spaces in Kyiv, specifically,
they mentioned that thebustling subway passage near Main
Don's Globus entrance to thatbecome a vital strategy, not just
for income, but crucially, for networking.
(07:50):
It was right there, amidst thenoise and the commuters, that a chance
encounter happened.
A girl recognized their rawtalent and invited them to play at
an Apartment concert.
And this wasn't just a single gig.
It created this profoundsnowball effect.
That first apartment concertopened doors to more performances,
and it gradually integratedthem into Keev's vibrant musical
(08:10):
get together, which soundslike this loose, organic collective
of artists, open mics, jamsessions, the whole thing that really
fuels the city's independentmusic scene.
It just demonstrates theincredible power of grassroots connections,
doesn't it?
And how their raw, authenticapproach to music, the one they developed
on the streets, allowed themto organically weave themselves into
(08:30):
the city's artistic fabric.
They essentially turned anacademic setback into a launchpad
for their true calling.
Their ability to connectdirectly with people, even in those
casual settings, proved waymore valuable than any formal degree
could have been.
It's truly fascinating howthose street performances became
this kind of unintendednetworking hub for them.
And speaking of their uniqueconnections, that authenticity seems
(08:52):
to spill right into the verycore of their artistry, their music
itself.
Melody is known for thisdistinctive blend of alt pop and
electronica.
How does that signature soundreally manifest across their discography,
which properly kicked off in 2022?
Are there particular sonicelements, you know, things you can
point to that define theirunique fusion?
Yeah, if we connect this tothe bigger picture, their sound isn't
(09:14):
just a simple mix of genres.
It's actually a prettysophisticated interplay between them.
Muladi blends the raw, oftenquite introspective lyricism and
maybe unconventional songstructures you find in alt pop, with
the atmospheric textures andthe driving synthesized beats that
are really characteristic of electronica.
So when you listen to theirtracks, you might hear, say, a very
vulnerable, almost acousticsounding vocal line, and then that's
(09:38):
immediately followed by, like,a soaring synth pad that creates
this Vast emotive soundscape,or maybe a crisp arpeggiated bass
line that grounds it in areally modern electronic groove.
They frequently use digitaldrum machines to lay down these precise,
energetic rhythms, which thensupport Kirillo's really expressive
vocals and Ivan's layered instrumentation.
(09:59):
It's this constant push andpull, you could say, between organic
human emotion and digitalprecision that really defines their
signature sound.
And their very first single,Nezzeles, the that's Independence,
released in 2022, is apowerful example of this.
Right from the start, it wasactually a collaboration with singers
Ostrovsky and Kelceimmediately marking their entrance
with a strong, very relevantmessage for the time.
(10:21):
And it seems their musicalmost immediately became a direct
reflection of the reallyimpactful, heavy events unfolding
in Ukraine.
What's crucial here is whatcame right after Nes Lezhynist, isn't
it?
Indeed.
What's absolute vital tounderstand about their early releases
is the profound personal andnational significance of their next
track, which is Bill, whichtranslates simply as Pain.
(10:41):
This track was written veryshortly after Nesolezionist, specifically
in response to the full scaleoccupation of Mariupol, their beloved
hometown.
So just think about that sequence.
You have Independence as theirdebut, a strong statement of national
identity, quickly followed byPain, this raw, immediate emotional
processing of immensecollective trauma happening right
(11:02):
then.
This immediate link betweenthe early releases and the devastating,
devastating events in Ukrainejust highlights how their music became
a direct, poignant reflectionof their own experiences and the
broader national feeling.
Their art wasn't just aboutentertainment from the get go.
It was a direct response toand an emotional processing of the
profound challenges theircountry was facing.
(11:22):
It established their musicright from the outset as deeply authentic,
deeply connected to therealities of their lives, and really
a voice for their homeland.
And their output since thenhas been incredibly prolific, especially
considering everything.
Since 2022 there's been thissteady stream of singles.
It's truly impressive.
Beyond Nizzleznest and Bill,let's maybe shine a light on some
of their other successful tracks.
(11:43):
They've released songs likeDim, which means Home, Nizabudu,
ZVNA Palavinu, I Live HalfHeartedly and Skarb or Treasure,
which was that collaborationwith the singer Michelle Andrade.
Their discography alsoincludes tracks like Kino, Nikoli,
Dopamojet, Krapliami,Duboikovryu, Yania and Serenade.
(12:04):
That's quite a list already.
And Looking ahead, their 2025releases apparently include My Sea,
an acoustic version calledMoye Mor and Odin Emilian.
They've clearly beenincredibly busy ensuring a consistent
presence and also allowingtheir sound to evolve.
Absolutely.
And if we delve into some ofthose tracks you mention, we start
to really see the nuances oftheir sound develop.
Dim Home, for instance, oftencarries this more melancholic, yearning
(12:29):
quality.
You hear layered vocals and asort of subtle electronic pulse that
evokes a profound sense oflonging, maybe for a lost place,
a home that's now tragically changed.
Then maybe Nezabudu I Won'tForget might lean more into the driving
synth pop elements, reflectingperhaps a more defiant stance, a
refusal to let go of memoriesor crucial experiences.
(12:49):
Then you have something likeJuvena Polavinho, I Live Half Heartedly,
which often features a moreintimate, almost fragile acoustic
electronic sound.
It really highlights theirversatility and emotional range,
capturing that very realfeeling of living with a part of
yourself Missing and ScarbTreasure with Michelle Andrade that
showcases their ability toblend their signature electronic
(13:11):
textures with another artist'sdistinct vocal style, creating a
more dynamic, expansive soundthat maybe hints at broader collaborations
in the future.
Each track, while fittingwithin their core alt pop electronica
blend, definitely carves outits own unique emotional landscape,
reflecting the multifacetedreality of their experiences.
Now let's zoom in on oneparticular song you mentioned, Sance,
(13:31):
which translates to Sun.
What's the deeply personalnarrative behind this specific track?
Ivan apparently describes itas a two or three year old summer
history, recounting a shortbut very turbulent romance that shaped
the song's lyrics and mood.
It sounds like it's drawndirectly from his own life, a truly
authentic piece ofstorytelling through music.
Yes, and what's trulyfascinating here is Cirillo's own
(13:53):
poignant reflection on writing Sansei.
He initially believed thelyrics weren't directly about his
own experiences.
He actually said, when I wrotethis, I didn't think it was what
I was going through.
But then later he had thiskind of aha moment, this profound
realization that the lyricsprecisely mirrored a real life romantic
encounter he had experienced.
He vividly recalled giving hisshirt for warmth to a girl they were
(14:15):
with by the sea, embracingamid the darkness, with distant lightning
flashing.
He recounted the scene quite poetically.
We met at night, went to thesea, I gave her my shirt, we came
to the sea, sat down and br.
It was very cool darkness, alittle cold and in the distance in
the sea, such lightning.
It just reveals how deeplytheir personal lives are woven into
their creative fabric,sometimes even subconsciously.
(14:36):
Right?
With memories surfacing toform the very essence of their lyrics.
And furthermore Both Kirlo andIvan deeply consider Sansei, a Mariupol
song.
It evokes this intensenostalgia for their hometown, which
they describe quitebeautifully as a city of first kisses
and bold, bright feelings.
So this dual layer, the deeplypersonal romantic experience and
the profound connection totheir roots, makes the song incredibly
(14:59):
resonant and emotionally charged.
It serves as a powerfultribute to a cherished past and a
reminder of profound beautythat still lives within them even
as their city suffers so much.
So, given everything happeningin Ukraine, what does this all mean?
In the context of a nation atwar, Melody apparently faced questions
about the appropriateness ofreleasing love songs.
One might think it's somehowout of touch, or not the right focus.
(15:22):
But what was their power?
Powerful, and it sounds likeunequivocal response, asserting that
love is an eternal theme thatmust always be uplifted.
Was there ever any internaldebate about that?
Do we know?
Or maybe internal criticismthey might have faced for not focusing
solely on patriotic themes.
That's an incredibly importantquestion to consider and their response
is truly profound.
(15:42):
I think they articulated thatcontinuing to live and express love
is not merely appropriate, butactually a profound way to honor
those who are protecting theirnation, particularly the armed forces
of Ukraine, the zsu, you whomake their very existence and artistic
expression possible.
They stated unequivocally thatlove is an eternal theme, a fundamental
human emotion that must alwaysbe celebrated and uplifted, regardless
(16:05):
of the external circumstances.
And this isn't just likesimple sentimentality.
It's a form of artisticdefiance, really, a declaration that
war will not diminish theircapacity for joy, for connection,
for the very emotions theirsoldiers are fighting to protect.
While the sources we looked atdon't detail specific internal debates
or external criticisms theymight have faced, their firm stance
(16:25):
certainly suggests anawareness that such questions might
arise.
They clearly believe thattheir art serves a higher purpose,
one that goes beyond just theimmediate call to arms or solely
patriotic messaging andconnecting this to the bigger picture.
Their perspective on lovesongs goes far beyond just sentiment.
They actually discuss music'sbroader, profound role as a form
of psychotherapy.
That's the word they used.
(16:46):
They explain how their musicaims to directly influence listeners
mental states, providing thispowerful channel for emotional release,
allowing people to cry,reflect and recall memories.
Kira Lowe articulated thisbeautifully, saying, music is a very
important tool for influencingthe mental state.
It's not just to listen andsmile, it is to listen and cry and
(17:07):
to listen and rethinksomething, to listen and immerse
yourself in some memories.
So this positions their artnot just as entertainment, but as
a vital tool for emotionalprocessing and resilience, especially
in such challenging times.
It's a way for people to cope,maybe find a voice for their own
feelings and to remember thebeauty and normalcy that stands,
still, exists or existed evenamidst profound struggle.
(17:29):
They seem to see themselves asmore than just musicians.
They're almost like culturaltherapists, helping their audience
navigate complex emotionsthrough the shared experience of
sound, creating a space forcommunal grieving, reflection and
ultimately maybe finding apath forward.
That's a really powerful wayto frame their artistic mission.
Now let's shift gears slightlyand discuss their journey with Eurovision.
The information we havereveals this really fascinating timeline
(17:52):
that seems to show, well, areal testament to their persistence.
We have one account from aninterview that suggests that at the
time of recording, they hadapplied for Vidbeer 2025, that's
Ukraine's national selectionfor Eurovision, but hadn't actually
made the long list.
They even mentioned a specificsong called Maria, meaning Dream,
that they had submitted.
They called it a Grand Prixsong that they planned to release
(18:14):
later anyway.
However, another sourceclearly states that on December 20,
2024, it was announced thatMelody would participate in Vidbier
2025 with a different song, MySee, and they ultimately finished
in second place in the finalon February 8, 2025.
This seems like acontradiction, or at least a very
interesting progression of events.
What's going on there?
Yeah, right.
(18:35):
This raises an important question.
How do we reconcile these twoseemingly contradictory pieces of
information?
Well, this discrepancy pointsdirectly to the timing of that interview.
It was almost certainlyconducted before their official selection
for Vidbir 2025 with my C wasrevealed to the public.
So they were likely discussingtheir previous submission attempt
with the song, which at thatpoint had unfortunately not made
(18:57):
the cut.
And this situation justvividly highlights the remarkable
persistence, doesn't it?
And the eventual triumph oftheir talent.
They moved from what must havebeen an initial setback, not making
the long list with Maria, tothis really significant achievement,
not only securing a spot laterwith My Sea, but ultimately finishing
in a very strong second placein a major national competition.
(19:19):
It's a powerful testament totheir unwavering determination and
the undeniable quality qualityof their music eventually breaking
through.
It just proves that sometimesinitial rejections are just detours
on the path to success, youknow, and that dedication to creating
powerful music, regardless ofthose initial outcomes, ultimately
pays off.
They clearly didn't give upafter the first disappointment, and
(19:39):
that resilience led to a hugemoment for them on the national stage?
Absolutely.
Beyond their impressivemusical output and their journey
through the, let's say, upsand downs of the industry, let's
explore how melody connectswith people in a more personal level.
They shared this reallyinteresting observation that finding
long term connections withindividuals is often actually more
challenging for them thanconnecting with a broad audience
(20:01):
through their music.
What does this insight revealabout the intricate dynamics of navigating
both the music industry, whichoften requires that wide reach, and
personal relationships whichdemand depth and consistency?
It suggests a uniqueperspective on connection itself.
Yeah, and what's fascinatinghere is how they're key.
Professional collaborationsseem to have frequently stemmed from
(20:22):
these unexpected informalinteractions almost entirely organically,
rather than through, say,traditional industry channels or
formal meetings.
For instance, Carrillo'schance encounter with Ostrovsky,
who runs the Mako Music labelthey're now on.
It happened at a gym in Kyiv,apparently very shortly after they
first arrive, maybe around May 25.
(20:43):
Carolo recounted seeingOstrovsky, whom he described as just
a cool guy, at the gym.
He later found him on TikTokafter Ostrovsky had made a Ukrainian
language version of a songthat really resonated with Kirillo.
So instead of some formalpitch meeting, Kirlo simply messaged
him, mentioning basically,hey, we saw you at the gym, we also
make music, let's maybe collaborate.
Ostrovsky liked their music,they started working together and
(21:05):
eventually they became adirect part of his label, just like
that.
And similarly, rememberKirillo's street performance in that
subway passage in Kyiv, whichmirrored their early days in Mariupol
that resulted in a girl simplytaking his contact details and then
inviting them to an apartment concert.
And that single apartmentconcert then became this pivotal
moment, opening doors to awider network of gigs and fully integrating
(21:26):
them into Keev's vibrantmusical get together, that organic,
bustling collective ofindependent artists, producers and
informal venues.
It just illustrates theincredibly serendipitous and grassroots
way their career seems to havedeveloped through genuine personal
connections forged in everyday moments.
It really underscores theirbelief, maybe, that deep long term
(21:46):
connections are hard won, butincredibly impactful when they do
form.
They didn't seem to seek outthese opportunities through rigid
strategies.
They just arose from thembeing present, authentic and engaging
with people around them.
Mariupol, it's their hometown,a city that, as we've said, has endured
such immense suffering.
How are the devastating eventsthere personally impacted Kirlo and
(22:06):
Ivan?
They describe the initialdisbelief, the brutal escalation
of the conflict, mentioningthe horrific bombings of the maternity
hospital and the drama theaterand the profound emotional toll it
continues to take.
Kirilo recounts spontaneouslycrying just upon seeing a Mariupol
sign somewhere in Kyiv.
It suggests this deep, perhapseven suppressed grief that just surfaces
(22:26):
unexpectedly.
It's such a stark reminder ofthe enduring scars of conflict and
the visceral pain of losingone's home.
Yeah.
And if we connect this to thebigger picture, their experiences
relating to Mariupol are notjust about the city itself, the place.
It's about the profound,irreplaceable personal losses they've
endured as a directconsequence of the conflict.
Carolo tragically lost a veryclose friend named Sane.
(22:49):
He described him as a peacefulcivilian who died in Mariupol.
Kirilo recounted spendingentire days with Sane just playing
music together, playingPlayStation, drinking tea, talking
for hours.
He emphasized how much Saneinfluenced him, both as a musician
and just as a person.
And the casual normalcy hedescribed in those memories makes
the loss feel even moreheartbreaking, doesn't it?
And then Ivan's story.
(23:11):
His father devastatingly wentmissing in Mariupol.
Ivan shared the ongoing agonyof simply not knowing his fate.
He said, my father wentmissing in Mariupol, and the police
call me sometimes to confirminformation because, well, he's just
missing.
That is, he wasn't on any listof those leaving Mariupol or those
entering Zaporizhzhia or thosewho were already, well, posthumously
identified.
There's just no officialrecord, only this agonizing void
(23:33):
of not knowing.
And furthermore, Ivan'syounger brother apparently remains
stuck there in Mariupol inwhat sounds like an incredibly difficult
situation, adding anotherlayer of constant worry and helplessness.
For him, these deeply personaltragedies offer such a profoundly
human and heartbreakingperspective on the broader conflict.
They illustrate the intimateways war impacts individual lives,
(23:55):
tearing families apart,leaving behind this trail of unanswered
questions and just enduringsilent pain.
You feel like their musicbecomes a vessel for carrying this
immense personal burden.
It's almost unbearable tothink about.
And Carolo profoundly stated,when the dead are not remembered,
they die a second time.
How does this deeply heldbelief fuel his determination to
(24:16):
keep Sanay's memory alive,Even by performing a dedicated song
for him at every singleacoustic concert they do?
And what about their intentions?
To incorporate Sanaa's ownmusical material into Melody's future
work?
Perhaps through remakes orcovers, ensuring his creative spirit
lives on through their art.
It feels like such a powerfulact of remembrance, embodying their
commitment to honoring those lost.
(24:37):
Absolutely.
That statement From Kirilo,when the dead are not remembered,
they die a second time.
It feels like a corephilosophy for him, and it beautifully
illustrates how their musicbecomes this powerful vessel for
memory and also a profoundcoping mechanism.
The act of transformingpersonal pain and tragedy into art
not only helps them processtheir own grief, but it also creates
(24:58):
something resonant andenduring for their listeners.
Kirilo emphasized this,stating, when good people leave life,
their memory should live on.
So by integrating Sanae'smaterial, they mentioned planning
remix or covers, and byperforming that dedicated song for
him at every acoustic concert.
Apparently it's a song calledYanya, a track that existed before
melody, and truly expresses apart of Sanae's spirit.
(25:19):
They feel by doing this,they're not just remembering a friend,
they are actively fightingagainst that second death he spoke
of.
They're ensuring that hisspirit, and by extension maybe the
broader experience of allthose who suffered in Mariupol, remains
alive in the collective consciousness.
Through the universal languageof music.
Their art becomes this livingmemorial, a source of solace for
themselves and a powerfulmessage of remembrance for their
(25:42):
audience.
It's an active, ongoingprocess of turning immense loss into
enduring meaning.
It's incredibly moving howthey channel that personal grief
into something so meaningful,not just for them, but for a wider
audience.
And thinking about Mariupolbefore the full scale invasion, the
city actually underwent thisremarkable transformation starting
around 2016.
What vivid and inspiringdetails did they share about their
(26:05):
city's renewal during that time?
They described the restorationof all the parks, particularly one
called Veselka on the Left Bank.
Apparently it was transformedfrom an old park known for some rather
curious 2 meter dinosaurfigures, into this truly vibrant
space.
They mentioned huge flowerbeds with various tulips, beautiful
lighting, and even in groundtrampolines, it became a really popular
(26:28):
spot for photoshoots.
It sounds like it wasgenuinely a city on the rise, which
makes the current devastationeven more poignant somehow.
Exactly.
Those specific vivid detailsabout Mariupol's recent vibrant past
add another really cruciallayer to their current experiences
of grief and hope.
It paints such a clear pictureof what was thriving and what was
(26:48):
cherished, which furtheremphasizes the profound sense of
loss now.
But it also seems to fueltheir dreams for its future and reinforces
their continued unwaveringconnection to their homeland.
The transformation of a parkwith, yes, 2 meter dinosaur figures
into this modern, beautifulspace with huge flower beds of various
tulips and in ground trampolines.
That isn't just a physicalchange, is it?
(27:10):
It represents a spirit ofprogress of joy, of community that
they deeply miss and clearlyardently hope to see restored someday.
It speaks to a city that wasactively rebuilding itself, investing
in its public spaces andfostering this real sense of pride
and dynamism.
So this vivid memory of aflourishing Mariupol reinforces the
profound impact of its currenttragic state, of course, but it also
(27:31):
serves as a powerfulinspiration for their music, which
often carries those themes oflonging, resilience, and the enduring
human sense spirit.
It's a constant reminder,maybe, of what they're fighting for,
both personally and throughtheir art.
The recovery of that vibrantspirit of a city that was truly blossoming.
Okay, let's unpack theirvision for the future.
Now let's turn our attentionto their aspirations.
(27:53):
Kirilo notably prefers tospeak of goals rather than dreams,
which is interesting in itself.
He described this fascinatingevolution in his ambition from initially
just wanting to be heard by asmall, appreciative audience.
He now desires to reach a verylarge audience and play big concerts.
And he articulated this wishto be heard not just as an artist
(28:14):
through his songs, but also asa person.
He drew inspiration fromartists like Monatich, who apparently
integrate spoken word tracksinto their albums to convey deeper
thoughts.
This shift suggests a growingdesire for broader impact, maybe
a more intimate, authenticconnection with their listeners beyond
just the music.
What does this deeperaspiration signify for them, do you
think?
Yeah.
(28:34):
This raises an importantquestion, doesn't it?
What does this express shiftin ambition signify about their growth
not just as musicians, but asindividuals navigating a really complex
world?
Kirillo's desire to be heardby a very large audience and play
big concerts, moving from thatmore intimate initial goal, it definitely
reflects a growing maturity intheir artistic vision.
It reflects a desire forbroader cultural impact, I think,
(28:57):
and a deeper, more directconnection with their audience, moving
beyond just entertainment intoa space of perhaps cultural commentary
and influence.
His aspiration to be heard asa person like Monatique, who just
talks and conveys some thoughton his albums.
That really speaks to a desireto leverage their platform for more
profound communication.
It seems it's about sharingnot just melodies and rhythms, but
(29:18):
also their deepest thoughts,their experiences, their perspectives
on life and the world,creating a more comprehensive voice
in the cultural landscape.
It indicates a readinessperhaps to embrace a larger public
role, moving from maybe aniche appeal towards becoming a more
resonant and influential presence.
That's a powerful anddefinitely evolved vision.
And Ivan also articulatesambitious goals for their music,
(29:41):
specifically wishing for it tobe in the Pops Globally.
What is their broader visionfor Ukrainian music on the world
stage?
How do they aim for it to berecognized as stylish and cool with
their music, actually helpingpeople worldwide?
This feels like it's not justabout personal success for them.
It's really about elevatingtheir national culture and demonstrating
its artistic prowess to aglobal audience for sure.
(30:03):
And this ambition is reallyunderpinned by their unwavering commitment
to a DIY do it yourselfapproach in their production.
They handle absolutelyeverything themselves, from the very
initial lyrics right throughto the final mixing and mastering.
Ivan articulated this clearly,saying, we do everything ourselves
from the very beginning, fromthe first lines of the song to mixing
(30:23):
and mastering ourselves.
Now, this level of completecontrol over their creative process
isn't just about maintaining independence.
It directly contributes totheir ambitious goal of achieving
what they call an Americanlevel sound and production quality.
They explain they try to raisethe level of our professionalism
very high.
To be on the same level asAmerica, for example, constantly
(30:44):
listening to and analyzinghigh quality music from around the
globe to hone their own craft.
This dedication reallyunderscores their pursuit of professional
excellence and artistic integrity.
They want to ensure that everyaspect of their sound meets a global
standard.
So by meticulously craftingtheir music themselves, they ensure
that the authenticity of theirUkrainian voice is presented with
(31:05):
international grade production.
And that helps positionUkrainian music as stylish and cool
on the world stage.
Just as they hope theirpassion for their craft is just inextricably
linked to their pride in theirnational identity and their aspiration
for its global recognition.
And finally, as artists, theystrongly emphasize the importance
of creating music theygenuinely love.
(31:26):
How does this personalsatisfaction, this alignment with
their own artisticpreferences, influence their creative
process and what we canperhaps anticipate from their future
output?
It sounds like authenticity isjust a core principle for them, guiding
their choices and ensuringtheir music truly comes from the
heart.
Yeah.
Concluding this section, it'sabundantly clear there's this powerful,
almost symbiotic blend ofpersonal and national ambition in
(31:50):
their goals.
Their desire for globalrecognition extends far beyond just
personal fame.
It's deeply intertwined withelevating Ukrainian culture and artistry
on the world stage, makingsure their nation's voice is heard
and appreciated internationally.
And their fundamentalcommitment to creating music they
personally love is absolutelycentral to this whole vision.
(32:10):
As Cirlo put it, I think whenthe author can say about himself
that now we are making musicthat we like, it's very cool.
This personal satisfaction,this internal validation, it's the
fuel for their creativity.
It ensures that their outputwill not only be of exceptionally
high quality, meticulouslyproduced, as we discussed, but it
will also carry this genuineemotional weight.
(32:30):
This dedication to selffulfillment in their art ensures
that what we hear from Modiwill always be authentic.
Resonating deeply withlisteners, hopefully globally, and
serving as a compellingambassador for Ukrainian identity,
resilience and the universalpower of creative expression.
It's an inspiring testament,really, to art, born from conviction
and deep passion.
So what does this all mean for us?
(32:51):
We've taken a deep dive intothe compelling world of Molodai.
From their unexpectedbeginnings as street musicians in
Mariupol, remember, pushedtowards an electrical engineering
path that ironically broughtthem together to their current status
as a rising old pop duo makingsignificant waves in Kyiv and increasingly
beyond.
Their story is one ofserendipitous meetings, bold life
decisions, unwaveringdedication to their art, and this
(33:14):
profound intimate connectionto their homeland, especially, of
course, Mariupol.
Indeed, we've explored theirincredible journey, marked by profound
personal resilience and adeep, enduring connection to their
roots.
We've seen how their uniqueapproach to creating music, often
deeply personal, reflective oftheir experiences, resonates universally,
serving not just asentertainment, but as they put it,
(33:35):
as a form of therapy, a vesselfor memory and maybe a beacon of
hope.
Their ambitious vision aimsnot only for personal success, but
also to elevate Ukrainianartistry on the global stage, ensuring
that their nation's voice isheard and appreciated internationally.
Their story just powerfullyunderscores how art can be a testament
to the enduring human spirit,even, or perhaps especially, in the
face of immense adversity.
(33:57):
And for you, our listener,here's maybe a final provocative
thought to ponder.
What does it truly mean tocreate and thrive amidst profound
adversity?
Moloti's journey suggests thatauthenticity, resilience and a deep
connection to one's roots cantransform personal pain and collective
struggle into art that notonly endures, but inspires hope,
(34:17):
connection and maybe a deeperunderstanding of the human experience.
How might their examplechallenge or perhaps inform your
own understanding ofcreativity and persistence when faced
with life greatest challenges?
We definitely encourage you toexplore their discography, if you
haven't already, perhapsstarting with the evocative Sants,
to really experience the depthof their artistry and to reflect
on how their personal storiesinfuse their sound, and given their
(34:41):
prolific output and commitmentto excellence, eagerly anticipate
their upcoming album as theycontinue to create.
Melody's music promises to bea vibrant testament to resilience,
identity and the indomitablespirit of creativity that can blossom
even in the most challengingof times.
Popular Podcasts
New Heights with Jason & Travis Kelce
Football’s funniest family duo — Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs — team up to provide next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. The two brothers and Super Bowl champions drop weekly insights about the weekly slate of games and share their INSIDE perspectives on trending NFL news and sports headlines. They also endlessly rag on each other as brothers do, chat the latest in pop culture and welcome some very popular and well-known friends to chat with them. Check out new episodes every Wednesday. Follow New Heights on the Wondery App, YouTube or wherever you get your podcasts. You can listen to new episodes early and ad-free, and get exclusive content on Wondery+. Join Wondery+ in the Wondery App, Apple Podcasts or Spotify. And join our new membership for a unique fan experience by going to the New Heights YouTube channel now!
The Breakfast Club
The World's Most Dangerous Morning Show, The Breakfast Club, With DJ Envy, Jess Hilarious, And Charlamagne Tha God!
Fudd Around And Find Out
UConn basketball star Azzi Fudd brings her championship swag to iHeart Women’s Sports with Fudd Around and Find Out, a weekly podcast that takes fans along for the ride as Azzi spends her final year of college trying to reclaim the National Championship and prepare to be a first round WNBA draft pick. Ever wonder what it’s like to be a world-class athlete in the public spotlight while still managing schoolwork, friendships and family time? It’s time to Fudd Around and Find Out!