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Oleg Skrypka & Vopli Vidoplyasova
Trailblazers of Ukrainian Music Culture and Pioneers of World Music

news and upcoming shows

Introduction
Oleg Skrypka and Vopli Vidoplyasova (VV) are the trailblazers of Ukrainian music culture, leading the charge to bring the sounds and spirit of Ukraine to the global stage. As pioneers of world music, they have seamlessly fused the raw energy of punk, the richness of Eastern European folk, and the innovation of rock to create a sound that transcends borders and unites audiences. Revered as the «Godfather of Ukrainian Rock», Skrypka and VV broke ground as one of the first Ukrainian bands to perform internationally, introducing the world to a vibrant, defiant musical identity. Their performances are a visceral celebration of culture, rebellion, and resilience, earning them a place among the most influential acts in modern music history.
Key Highlights
  • The Rebellion of Ukrainian Rock
    VV’s story begins in the Soviet-era underground, where their electric fusion of punk, rock, and Ukrainian folk shook the foundations of the music scene. Their very first gig was opening for Sonic Youth in Kyiv—a prophetic start to their career as trailblazers. From there, they became symbols of Ukraine's cultural awakening, championing the use of Ukrainian language and identity in music.

  • Trailblazers in Neo-Ethnic and World Music
    VV redefined what it means to be a Ukrainian band. During their transformative years in France in the 1990s, they brought Ukrainian folk and rock to European audiences, performing in Ukrainian, Russian, and French. Their boundary-pushing sound earned them collaborations with world music legends like Goran Bregović, Manu Chao, and Khaled, solidifying their place as pioneers in neo-ethnic and world music.
  • Inspiration for a New Generation
    VV’s impact on global music is undeniable. Eugene Hutz, frontman of the internationally acclaimed Gogol Bordello, credits Oleg Skrypka and VV as his “teachers.” Gogol Bordello played their first-ever gig opening for VV in New York City—a testament to VV’s role in shaping the sound of future generations of world music innovators.
  • Stage Legends from Kyiv to the World
    VV has conquered stages at iconic festivals like WOMAD, Sziget, and Montreux Jazz Festival, captivating audiences with their electrifying performances.
  • Successful Touring in the USA and Canada
    VV has achieved notable success touring North America, thrilling audiences across all major cities with their unique fusion of punk energy and Eastern European melodies. Their music resonates deeply with more than 3 million Eastern European immigrants in North America and beyond, serving as a vital cultural connection for these communities.
2025 Plans
In June 2025, VV will headline a major world music festival in upstate New York and is available for additional bookings across North America. This is a unique opportunity for festivals and venues to host one of the most iconic acts in Eastern European music, known for their electrifying performances and cultural resonance.
Oleg Skrypka and VV are more than a band—they are cultural ambassadors, innovators, and icons. Their music invites the world to dance, sing, and celebrate the unyielding spirit of Ukraine. Bringing them to your stage means hosting a piece of musical history and cultural revolution.
Past shows
Fugu Dugu in Chicago City Winery
Fugu Dugu in DROM, NYC
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