As the reader will be aware, Mesmerized has been following Kelsie Kimberlin for the past few years. The talented American-Ukrainian singer has chosen to honour her roots by using her art as a permanent spotlight of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. While the conflict has now exploded into a full-scale war, Kimberlin has never stopped bringing awareness to its harsh reality and its painful consequences. She does so through stunningly authentic and honest music, sharing forgotten tales of human suffering and proud resistance. In that sense, ‘Champ’ finds a perfect place within Kimberlin’s vast and successful catalogue.
Released on February 24, the fourth anniversary of the war, ‘Champ’ seeks to pay a heartfelt tribute to every Ukrainian fighting for their freedom and independence. In particular, the song’s uplifting message gets woven into sports, highlighting their function as a coping mechanism for young people. Such a potent narrative comes alive in the record’s music video, featuring 6-year-old Mariia Hnes, a Ukrainian karate champion who competed in Venice, Italy, against an athlete from Russia. While both ended up on the podium, Mariia chose not to take part in the ceremony.
Delving deeper into ‘Champ’, Kimberlin explains: “I have seen how stressful it is for Ukrainian children to live a normal life while their parents are fighting an enemy who wants to destroy them and their way of life. Participation in sports helps these kids have a sense of purpose and direction, and brings pride to their warrior parents.” It’s a deeply meaningful message, showcasing once again Kelsie’s purposeful artistry and her willingness to expose the complex reality of war.
Recommended! Discover ‘Champ’ now: