Ruslana Lyzhychko was born in Ukraine in 1973 and spent her childhood studying music. She graduated from the Lviv Conservatory as a classical pianist and symphonic orchestra conductor. In 2003, she began work on the album, Dyki tantsi (translation: Wild Dances), which would lead her to Eurovision victory and international fame.
"Wild Dances" is everything. Eurovision perfection: a strong, beautiful singer, a chorus that will stick in your head, powerful choreography, and a seamless blend of Ukrainian pride with modern pop music. The song is patriotic without being alienating. Everyone can relate to it. Everyone can vote for it. And everyone did. The only country in the entire international jury that did not award "Wild Dances" any points was Switzerland. And you know what, Switzerland? I looked it up, and you received a big, fat zero points your entry that year. You messed up, Switzerland. Big time.
Soon after the Contest, Ruslana was appointed an advisor to the Prime Minister of Ukraine. That's right. The Prime Minister. Because she won Eurovision. Ukrainians don't mess around. She was bestowed with the title of People's Artist of Ukraine. The album, Wild Dances, was a hit all over Europe, and it was the first album in Ukraine to be certified five times Platinum. She has been awarded with so many honors that I can't even list them all, because it would get boring.
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| Yes, girl. |
Since Eurovision, Ruslana served in the Ukrainian Parliament for a year, and is currently a Goodwill Ambassador for UNICEF. She still records music and is a judge on Ukraine's version of The Voice. But she is probably most celebrated for using her music to advocate for human rights and environmental issues.
You know what else she is celebrated for, though? Being fucking badass.
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