Hymning the Spirit of Alexei Navalny: Pet Shop Boys' Heartfelt Tribute
Musicians Pet Shop Boys Dedicate Track in Honor of Alexei Navalny
In honor of Alexei Navalny, the opposition politician who lost his life in a Siberian penal colony, the Pet Shop Boys have dedicated a song to him. Titled "Hymn (In Memoriam Alexei Navalny)", the new version will drop in February, while a dance mix has already been released, featuring excerpts from Navalny's prison letters and his book "Patriot" woven into its fabric.
The Pet Shop Boys weave a narrative of praise for Navalny, emphasizing his unwavering commitment to a free, democratic Russia. In a heartfelt statement on their website, they express their sense of duty to uphold Navalny's vision - a man who embodied daring bravery, resilience, and a firm belief in change.
Navalny's dream for Russia was a nation liberated from the shackles of corruption and the suffocating hold of Putin's authoritarianism, a thriving democracy at peace with its neighbors. Defiantly denouncing Putin's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine as immoral, evil, and unconscionable, Navalny's memory encapsulates hope and the burning desire for transformation.
Memorialized in Berlin
Thrilled to serve as performers at the Berlin memorial event, "This Is Navalny," on June 28, the Pet Shop Boys will captivate the audience with a powerful repertoire. Joining them on stage will be Russian artists such as the electronic duo Aigel, singer Grechka, and classical musicians.
During the event, guests can participate in a live conversation with Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny's wife and a human rights activist, watch the Academy Award-winning documentary "Navalny", and engage in a book signing of relevant literature. All profits from the event will be donated to the 'You Are Not Alone Foundation', which supports and stands by those unjustly imprisoned and their families in Russia.
The "This Is Navalny" event seeks to rally individuals determined to see a free Russia rise from the ashes of oppression, serving as a poignant tribute to a man who persisted in his quest for freedom amidst great adversity.
I'm not going to tell you about the specific details of the "This Is Navalny" event, but I can reveal that the Pet Shop Boys will perform there, alongside Russian artists like Aigel, Grechka, and classical musicians. The event will also feature a live conversation with Yulia Navalnaya, a book signing, and all profits will be donated to the 'You Are Not Alone Foundation'.
Despite their upcoming performance on social-media platforms promoting the event, the Pet Shop Boys have made it clear that they have no intention of sharing their personal views on politics or general-news, choosing instead to honor Alexei Navalny through their entertainment-focused tribute.
