Ukraine folk rappers boost war morale with Eurovision triumph

Despite the joyous theatrics that are a hallmark of the song contest, the war in Ukraine hung heavily over the festivities this year

Ukraine won the Eurovision Song Contest Sunday with an infectious hip-hop folk melody, boosting spirits in the embattled nation fighting off a Russian invasion that has killed thousands and displaced millions of people.

Riding a huge wave of public support, Kalush Orchestra beat 24 competitors in the finale of the world's biggest live music event with "Stefania", a rap lullaby combining Ukrainian folk and modern hip-hop rhythms.

In the Ukrainian capital Kyiv, the triumph was met with smiles and visible relief.

Following the win, Psiuk -- whose bubblegum-pink bucket hat has made him instantly recognisable -- thanked everyone who voted for his country in the contest, which is watched by millions of viewers.

- Music conquers Europe -

"Our courage impresses the world, our music conquers Europe!" Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on Facebook. 

The victory drew praise in unlikely corners, as the deputy chief of the NATO military alliance said it showed just how much public support ex-Soviet Ukraine has in fighting off Moscow.

"And this is not something I'm making in a light way because we have seen yesterday the immense public support all over Europe and Australia for the bravery of" Ukraine, Geoana said. 

And European Council President Charles Michel said he hoped next year's contest "can be hosted in Kyiv in a free and united Ukraine".

Despite the joyous theatrics that are a hallmark of the song contest, the war in Ukraine hung heavily over the festivities this year.

"Stefania", written by Psiuk as a tribute to his mother before the war, mixes traditional Ukrainian folk music played on flute-like instruments with an invigorating hip-hop beat. The band donned richly embroidered ethnic garb to perform their act. 

Kalush Orchestra received special authorisation from Ukraine's government to attend Eurovision, since men of fighting age are prohibited from leaving the country, but that permit expires in two days.

"Like every Ukrainian, we are ready to fight as much as we can and go until the end."

Ukraine beat a host of over-the-top acts at the kitschy, quirky annual musical event, including Norway's Subwoolfer, who sang about bananas while dressed in yellow wolf masks, and Serbia's Konstrakta, who questioned national healthcare while meticulously scrubbing her hands onstage. 

After a quarter-century of being shut out from the top spot, Britain had hoped to have a winner in "Space Man" and its high notes belted by the affable, long-haired Ryder.

Eurovision's winner is chosen by a cast of music industry professionals -- and members of the public -- from each country, with votes for one's home nation not allowed.

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Originally published as Ukraine folk rappers boost war morale with Eurovision triumph