A Tribute Song for the Visionary: Pet Shop Boys Pay Homage to Alexei Navalny
Song Dedicated by Pet Shop Boys to Alexei Navalny
Pop duo Pet Shop Boys dedicated "Hymn (In Memoriam Alexei Navalny)" to the late Russian opposition leader who perished in a Siberian labor camp. The song, first unveiled in February 2025, is now available in a pulsating dance remix featuring Neil Tennant reading passages from Navalny's prison letters and his memoir "Patriot."
Tennant and Chris Lowe took it as an honor to promote the ideals that Navalny stood for, as a man of immense valor and unyielding resilience, whose memory continues to inspire. On their website, they highlighted that Navalny's mission encapsulated hope and aspirations for transformation. He envisioned a Russia liberated from graft and Putin's autocracy, a prosperous, democratic nation that harmoniously coexisted with its neighboring countries. He denounced Putin's oppression of Ukraine as immoral, fratricidal, and criminal[1][2].
'This Is Navalny' Memorial Event
On June 28, 2025, the Pet Shop Boys will headline the "This Is Navalny" memorial event in Berlin, joining fellow musicians like the electronic duo Aigel, singer Grechka, and classical musicians. The event will also feature a live conversation with Yulia Navalnaya, a screening of the Academy Award-winning documentary "Navalny," and a book signing of "Patriot."
The objective of the event is to unite people advocating for a free Russia, and proceeds will benefit the "You Are Not Alone Foundation," which safeguards the welfare of politically incarcerated individuals and their families in Russia[1][2][5].
Standing Together for Change
The Pet Shop Boys' performance underlines their commitment to Navalny's vision, marking a vital moment in the ongoing struggle for freedom and democracy in Russia. As they continue to champion Navalny's cause, the band acts as a beacon of hope and resilience, urging the world to remember and honor his indomitable spirit.
[1] ntv.de
[2] csp/dpa/spot
[5] Open sources
- Alexei Navalny
A charismatic and courageous figure in Russian politics, Alexei Navalny tragically succumbed to a public health crisis while serving a prison sentence for criticizing the Russian government. During his political career, he consistently fought against corruption, advocating for fair governance and respect for human rights in his homeland. His untimely passing sparked outrage and inspired numerous tributes worldwide, symbolizing hope and resistance against authoritarianism and oppression.
- Despite being unable to attend the event, the Pet Shop Boys expressed their solidarity by dedicating their performance at the "This Is Navalny" memorial to him.
- In addition to music, the event in Berlin will feature a live conversation, a documentary screening, and a book signing, all aimed at supporting the "You Are Not Alone Foundation."
- The Pet Shop Boys, while promoting their dance remix of the tribute song, continue to use their platform on social media to discuss war-and-conflicts, politics, general-news, and entertainment - always with a focus on Navalny's cause and his vision for a better Russia.
