Olya Polyakova became the heroine of the British publication The Times. In an exclusive interview, the artist spoke about personal changes during the war, including the cultural occupation of Ukraine, concerts near the front, the fight for the right to represent the country at Eurovision, and a new stage in her career. She also mentioned her family and the moment when she realized that people needed her songs more than ever.
The singer admits that at the beginning of the full-scale invasion, she was afraid of losing her career. Olya left for France for a few months, but later returned to Ukraine. According to her, it is in the darkest times that people especially need music that allows them to forget about constant tension for a while. Polyakova’s new track Warrior, which will be included in her upcoming English-language album, has become a symbol of this transformation.
Polyakova notes that concerts during the war are often interrupted by air raids, and the audience, along with the singer, is forced to go down to shelters. But after returning, the atmosphere becomes even more intense.
At the same time, Polyakova admits that she performed in Russia in 2015, which is why she is currently not eligible to represent Ukraine at Eurovision. She is appealing this decision.
