American names Ukrainian stars adored across US
These Ukrainian poets and musicians are loved by Americans (collage: RBC-Ukraine)
American Michael Villena, who has been living in Ukraine for several years, is deeply interested in Ukrainian culture. He listens to contemporary Ukrainian music, reads poetry, and even hosts a podcast featuring creative people. He named his favorite Ukrainian performers and writers in an interview with RBC-Ukraine.
Favorite Ukrainian music in the US
Among Ukrainian performers, Michael first mentions Kuzma Skryabin.
"I really love Skriabin. There are many reasons for this, but overall, because he's a very talented person," he says.
His other favorites include Odyn v kanoe, Bumbox, Tember Blanche, BRYKULETS, Nazva, and TVORCHI. These were the bands he began listening to right after moving to Ukraine.
"I have a podcast, Kraplia natkhennia, where we talk to different musicians or performers. That's how I met them," he adds.
Favorite writers and poets
Among Ukrainian writers, Michael highlights Yurii Izdryk.
Ukrainian poet Yurii Izdryk (photo: instagram.com/izdryk_y)
"Recently, he was in Lutsk. I saw his performance. He's like a rock star. And it's really cool," the American shares.
Also on his list of favorites are Lesya Ukrainka and Lina Kostenko. Although reading in Ukrainian is difficult for him, he tries not to give up.
"I need my wife or Google Translate. So, I can't say I understand everything, but modern poems are easier for me," he explains.
You may be interested in:
- What Americans really think of Ukrainian cuisine
- Why Americans come to Ukraine and don’t want to return to the US
