avatarChristine Vann, MSc.

Summary

Sting has revived his Cold War-era song "The Russians" in response to Putin's invasion of Ukraine, emphasizing a plea for shared humanity and peace amidst the conflict.

Abstract

In light of Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Sting has revisited his 1985 hit "The Russians," a song that was originally written as a plea for humanity during the Cold War. The song was inspired by Sting's experience of watching Russian children's television, which led him to reflect on the universal love for children and the desire for peace. Having rarely performed the song since its release due to its perceived irrelevance, Sting now sees it as pertinent again in the face of current events. He dedicates the song to both the brave Ukrainians resisting the invasion and the Russians protesting against the war, highlighting the shared humanity across borders and the need to end the conflict.

Opinions

  • Sting believes in the universality of human emotions, particularly the love for children, as a bridge for peace.
  • He expresses solidarity with the Ukrainian people in their resistance against the invasion.
  • Sting acknowledges and supports the courage of Russian protesters who oppose the war despite the risks.
  • The artist conveys a strong anti-war sentiment, calling the decision to invade "bloody and woefully misguided."
  • Sting's performance of "The Russians" serves as a contemporary call for unity and an end to hostilities.

Sting Performs His Cold War Hit ‘The Russians’ in Light of Putin’s Invasion

He never imagined he’d sing it again.

Sting performing at HMH music festival — Photo by Benhoudijk /Depositphotos.com

Sting originally wrote his 1985 ‘plea for humanity’ during the Cold War — when anti-Russian sentiment was rife. Watching Russian children’s tv inspired him to write the iconic song.

“I’ve only rarely sung this song in the many years since it was written because I never thought it would be relevant again,” he wrote.

“But, in the light of one man’s bloody and woefully misguided decision to invade a peaceful, unthreatening neighbor, the song is, once again, a plea for our common humanity. For the brave Ukrainians fighting against this brutal tyranny and also the many Russians who are protesting this outrage despite the threat of arrest and imprisonment — We, all of us, love our children. Stop the war.”

Ukraine
Parenting
Sting
Inspiration
Life Lessons
Recommended from ReadMedium