Grammy-nominated, platinum-selling artist, Five For Fighting (aka John Ondrasik) made a surprise appearance at The Belasco Theater in Los Angeles on October 15, 2023 during acclaimed Ukrainian rock band Antytila’s show to perform Five For Fighting’s global viral hit song “Can One Man Save The World.” Ondrasik wrote the song to honor the courage of President Vladimir Zelenskyy and the people of Ukraine.
Ondrasik’s passion for supporting humanitarian efforts and freedom has been a longstanding commitment for the artist. Ondrasik traveled to Kyiv to film the music video for “Can One Man Save the World” he performed with a Ukrainian Orchestra in front of the An-225 Mriya, the one-of-a-kind and the world’s largest cargo plane, which was destroyed by a Russian attack last year. The “Mriya,” which means “dream,” has taken on new meaning serving as a symbol of freedom for the Ukrainians. Watch the music video HERE.
Antytila served with army medics in Kharkiv during the war. See the Ukrainian rock band on the frontline of war on BBC News HERE.
Says Ondrasik, “It was an honor to say a few words and perform my song ‘Can One Man Save the World’ with the fantastic Ukrainian pop-rock band Antytila. These young men, some fathers, after trading their instruments for assault rifles spent nine months fighting for the freedom of their country. To stand with lead singer Taras Topolia, and sing in support of Ukraine is one more small example of America standing shoulder to shoulder with Ukraine. Taras’s heart is as powerful as his voice. Slava Ukraini!”
Says Antytila singer Taras Topolia, “The event that occurred with us in Los Angeles is a significant marker of the strong support from the democratic world and its people. At the beginning of this unjust war, John Ondrasik dedicated a song to the Ukrainian people and the Ukrainian President. The song embodies bravery, and the powerful collective will of the nation. A year ago, John visited Ukraine and, together with a Ukrainian orchestra, created a sincere and touching video in Gostomel, in front of the Ukrainian MRIYA, which was destroyed by Russian occupiers. Now, as we arrive in Los Angeles, it is highly symbolic to sing this song together. John’s speech was very powerful and particularly symbolic! We greatly appreciate the opportunity to share the stage with such remarkable people!”
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