For four decades,
Vopli Vidoplyassova (VV) has been Ukraineās ultimate cultural ambassador. Their anthems ā
Vesna,
Tantsi,
Krayina Mriy,
Halia, Hody, and
Den Narodzhennia ā are sung by heart by generations of Ukrainians. As the first Ukrainian band to tour internationally and gain global recognition, VVās explosive fusion of
punk, rock, and folk has carried the spirit of Ukraine across continents, igniting stages and uniting audiences.
Emerging from the Soviet underground, VV became a symbol of Ukrainian identity, resilience, and creative freedom. Their powerful performances at festivals like
WOMAD,
Sziget,
Montreux Jazz Festival,
Woodstock Poland, and
Rock am Ring cemented their status as global icons. Along the way, theyāve collaborated with world music legends such as
Manu Chao and
Khaled, and deeply influenced artists like
Eugene Hütz of Gogol Bordello, who calls them his musical teachers ā a legacy featured in the recent Gogol Bordello documentary.
VV frontman
Oleg Skrypka is also the founder of
Kraina Mriy, one of Ukraineās oldest and most influential cultural festivals, which has played a vital role in promoting new Ukrainian voices and providing humanitarian support through its charitable foundation.
Now, for the first time in nearly a decade, VV returns to North America for an explosive 14-city tour celebrating
40 years of music, movement, and meaning.
Audiences can expect a career-spanning set filled with legendary hits, deep cuts, and high-voltage surprises. Select cities will feature unforgettable collaborations with
Eugene Hütz (Gogol Bordello),
Lemon Bucket Orkestra,
Hazmat Modine horns,
Matt Darriau (The Klezmatics),
Dumai Dunai, and other special guests. Every show includes an exclusive
Meet & Greet with the band ā a rare chance for fans to connect, ask questions, and show their support.
This tour is also a humanitarian mission. At each concert, a
charity auction will raise funds for
Misto Dobra (The City of Goodness) ā a Ukrainian non-governmental organization offering shelter, medical care, psychological support, and long-term rehabilitation for mothers and children affected by war, domestic violence, and trauma. 100 percent of proceeds will go directly toward helping families rebuild their lives with dignity and hope.
Tour dates, tickets, and more info: rootsandchordsmusic.com