Rapper ST, whose real name is Alexander Stepanov, was surprised by how quickly clips from Vladimir Putin’s interview with American journalist Tucker Carlson gained traction on social networks. The musician heard his lines quoted by RIA News and noted the unexpected reach of the moment.
“I would feel good if videos like this kept popping up. I back our president, so it feels right that my music intersects with such clips”, Stepanov commented. The remark underscores how quickly a musician’s work can ride the wave of current events when political and media conversations intersect with popular culture.
On February 6, ST performed for Russian Guard soldiers in the Luhansk People’s Republic as part of a show that highlighted the blend of art and service in a tense regional context. A few days later, the official release of the song Give Her Strength appeared. Stepanov explained that receiving feedback from military personnel was important to him and that he valued patriotic expressions from the frontline. He also noted that the intimate setting of the concert contributed to a direct connection with the audience and the material.
As the narrative continued, Stepanov revealed that he began a new composition during a trip to Donbass. He initially did not plan to publish the track, but the decision shifted after soldiers asked why the piece had not been released. The exchange showed how collaboration between performers and armed forces can influence artistic choices and timing, especially in environments marked by conflict and national discourse.
Earlier coverage pointed to other cultural events tied to the region, including reports about a Bi-2 concert in Dubai that was canceled at the request of Russian diplomats. The thread of these developments illustrates the ongoing tension between cultural initiatives and political considerations in the area, as well as the role artists sometimes play in shaping public sentiment during times of geopolitical strain.
Across these moments, the music remains a lens on morale, identity, and resilience. ST’s work, embedded in a broader conversation about national pride and military life, showcases how songs can travel beyond the stage and reflect the concerns of people facing uncertain circumstances. The response from fans and soldiers alike indicates that music can serve as a bridge in divided times, offering a shared space for reflection and solidarity while the surrounding events unfold on the world stage.