The Ukrainian band BoomBox (БумБокс) has become one of the country's most successful musical exports since it was founded in 2004. The group, consisting of Andrij Chlywnjuk (vocals), Andrij Samojlo (guitar), Walentyn Matijuk (DJ), Oleksandr Ljuljakin (drums) and Denys Lewtschenko (bass), was first introduced to the general public in 2005 with the debut album "Меломанiя" (Melomania). This was followed a year later by the second album "Family Бiзнес", which went gold in Ukraine and Russia.<br>
In 2009, Ljuljakin and Lewtschenko joined the band, and BoomBox not only conquered the stages in Ukraine and Russia, but also toured Western Europe and North America. The musical diversity and energetic live performances made the band an international phenomenon.<br><br>
With the political change in 2014, when Crimea was annexed by Russia, BoomBox decided to stop performing in Russia. This clear stance towards political events underlines the band's commitment to Ukraine as well as their artistic independence.<br><br>
In 2019, BoomBox received recognition for their special achievements and contributions to Ukrainian music. Another turning point in the band's history occurred in 2022, when singer Andriy Khlyvnyuk joined the Ukrainian Armed Forces to defend his country against the Russian invasion of Ukraine. A moving video of Khlyvnyuk singing the Ukrainian folk song "Oh, red snowball in the meadow" in Kiev was posted on Instagram and received worldwide attention, including from South African singer The Kiffness, who covered the track.<br><br>
BoomBox's life follows a constant cycle of change. After touring for two, three or four weeks, the band members return to Ukraine and act very differently: one part joins the units on the front, another part takes care of the affairs of the Andrii Hlyvniuk Foundation, and the third part does voluntary work. After two or three months, BoomBox then goes back on tour to raise funds for the Ukrainian armed forces and share their music with the world.<br><br>
The band is not only sending a strong signal for unity and resistance in Ukraine, but also showing that art and commitment can go hand in hand to bring about positive change. BoomBox remains not only a musical sensation, but also a voice of hope and solidarity in challenging times. <br><br>(Source: Wikipedia, band statement)