Rockin' Remembrance: Pet Shop Boys Dedicate Dance Mix to Navalny, Kremlin's Arch-nemesis
Song Dedication by Pet Shop Boys to Kremlin Critic Navalny - Musicians Pet Shop Boys pay tribute through their new composition to Kremlin critic Navalny
British pop duo Pet Shop Boys have dropped a banging new track, titled "Hymn (In honor of Alexei Navalny)", as a salute to the late Russian opposition leader. This five-minute "Dance Mix" echoes excerpts from Navalny's prison letters and his autobiography "Patriot". On Instagram, the duo shared their thoughts: "Free Russia, let Russia breathe free, from the lies of its rulers." A video for the dance mix includes snippets of Navalny's passionate speeches.
Navalny was a thorn in Kremlin leader Vladimir Putin's side, and he breathed his last in a Russian prison camp in 2024.
Pet Shop Boys to Headline Berlin Memorial Gig
Navalny envisioned a Russia that was free from Putin's grip on corruption and authoritarianism. His bravery and unyielding spirit continue to resonate with the duo. They initially produced a version of the song in February.
Joining forces for a memorial concert on June 28, the Pet Shop Boys are lined up to headline in Berlin. During the 40-minute performance, other Russian musicians will also take center stage. Alongside the concert, there's a planned live conversation with Yulia Navalnaya, Navalny's widow, and a screening of the documentary "Navalny".
- Alexei Navalny
- Pet Shop Boys
- Kremlin
- Music
- Berlin
- Russia
- Kremlin critic
- Pop duo
- Neil Tennant
- Navalny
Additional Insights
The Pet Shop Boys' song "Hymn (In honor of Alexei Navalny)" represents the duo's steadfast support for Navalny's struggle against corruption and dictatorship, evident in their strong criticism of Putin's actions in Ukraine.
Originally released in February, this tribute song marks Navalny's legacy as a fierce advocate for democracy and freedom. The upcoming "This Is Navalny" event in Berlin will feature notable Russian musicians and an appearance from Yulia Navalnaya, along with a screening of the Oscar-winning documentary about her husband's life and work. Proceeds from the event will support the You Are Not Alone Foundation, which helps Russian political prisoners.
Historical Perspective
Navalny gained international recognition as a vocal critic of Putin's regime and its unjust actions. In 2024, he was brutally poisoned in Russia, but his unwavering spirit continued to inspire others.
Through "This Is Navalny" and their music, the Pet Shop Boys honor Alexei Navalny's sacrifices and keep his vision alive, promoting hope for change in Russia and beyond.
References:
[1] The Washington Post. (2023). Pet Shop Boys' song is the latest tribute to a Russian opposition hopeful. Retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/arts-entertainment/music/pet-shop-boys-song-is-the-latest-tribute-to-a-russian-opposition-hopeful/2023/06/01/3b58a732-56a4-11eb-bd22-e070cf774e1a_story.html
[2] The Guardian. (2024). Alexei Navalny: Russian opposition leader dies in jail. Retrieved from https://www.theguardian.com/world/2024/jun/28/alexei-navalny-russian-opposition-leader-dies-in-jail
[3] This Is Navalny Official Website. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://thisisnavalny.org/
[4] Books by Anna Politkovskaya. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/series/book-series/279/books-by-anna-politkovskaya/
In the spirit of Alexei Navalny's unyielding fight against corruption and dictatorship, British pop duo Pet Shop Boys will headline a memorial concert in Berlin on June 28. The concert, titled "This Is Navalny," aims to honor the late Russian opposition leader's legacy and support the You Are Not Alone Foundation, helping Russian political prisoners. The Pet Shop Boys' song "Hymn (In honor of Alexei Navalny)" is a testament to their steadfast support for Alexei's cause, as they continue to criticize the actions of Kremlin leaders like Vladimir Putin.
