Khrystyna Starykova, the Ukrainian contestant, is eager to win a place to represent her country in the future Eurovision Song Contest. She suffered an unexpected setback after her home in Myrnograd was destroyed by Russian shelling. Heavy battle between Russian supported separatists and Ukrainian armed forces escalated across the city. This culture of violence has incalculably impacted the quality of life for all of its residents.
Having been born in Donetsk and grown up in Myrnograd, Starykova has always dreamed of going home to her native town. Once her family moved to Kyiv with the changing tide of the war, she could focus on her passion for music at the prestigious Glière Music College. Despite all these moves, she’s always stayed deeply connected to Myrnograd and the surrounding area. Now, she’s happily and uncertainly counting down to taking the stage with her band Ziferblat at Eurovision.
Starykova’s song “Bird of Pray” gives a harrowing depiction of the war’s agony. It documents the painful and often perilous story of Ukrainians fleeing to be reunited with their families. This poignant tale is a reminder of the reality so many are still experiencing in her native country. The song’s emotional weight resonates with Starykova’s own experiences, particularly as she navigates the aftermath of her home being destroyed.
The future Eurovision contestant had reached the grand final of the Ukrainian version of The Voice. There, she brought down the house with an amazing cover of Duncan Lawrence’s winning song “Arcade.” Starykova’s path as an artist has long been marked by personal and national calamities.
“Home. And I dreamed so much of returning home,” she shared, highlighting her longing for the place that holds her childhood memories. Her family’s devastation is made worse by the fact that they lost her grandmother’s home just four months ago.
“Four months ago, my grandmother lost her home – it was just such a big hole,” – Khrystyna Starykova
Myrnograd is just about five miles from the frontline in the Donbas, around the heavily industrialized city of Pokrovsk. This sheer proximity to one another renders it a major conflict hotspot. Now, as Starykova understands better the local challenges she faces, she’s more committed than ever to raise awareness through her music.
“I want to portray our song in a good way,” she stated, emphasizing her commitment to convey hope amid despair.
“And just to convey our main message, that everything will be fine.” – Khrystyna Starykova
“It’s about our problems we go through, the tragedy for the last three years,” – Valentyn Leshchynskyi
As Starykova looks toward Eurovision, she steps out with the weight of her experiences and a message of perseverance.
“Despite our troubles, we will survive. I’m holding on for us.” – Khrystyna Starykova
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