Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed a decree awarding the honorary title of Honored Artist of Ukraine to Andriy Hlyvniuk, the leader of the musical group Bumbocks. The decision was made in honor of the Day of Ukrainian Statehood, celebrated on July 15. The official document, published on the President's website, highlights the musician's contribution not only to the country's cultural life but also to the defense of its sovereignty.
Musician at the Frontline
The text of the decree notes that the award is given "for significant merits in strengthening Ukrainian statehood, courage, and selflessness demonstrated in defending the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine." This recognition is a result of Hlyvniuk's actions following the start of Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022.
Andriy Hlyvniuk did not flee abroad but joined the territorial defense of Kyiv. His participation in combat operations received wide resonance: his performance of the song "Oy u luzy chervona kalyna" against the backdrop of military events went viral on social media. In March 2022, the musician was wounded during mortar shelling but returned to duty after treatment. By 2023, he had taken the position of commander of an aerial reconnaissance group.
From Accordion to Rock Star
Andriy Hlyvniuk's biography is a story of classic musical development with unexpected twists. He graduated from music school in the accordion class and the Cherkasy State Business College, obtaining a specialty in graphic design. His musical career began while studying at Bohdan Khmelnytskyi Cherkasy National University in the group "Mandarine Paradise".
After moving to Kyiv, Hlyvniuk played in jazz ensembles until 2004, when he founded the group "Bumbocks" together with Andriy Samoylo. The band quickly gained popularity, releasing well-known albums such as "Melomania", "Family Business", "Middle Age", and "Secret Code: Rubicon". In addition to stage activities, the musician worked as a sound producer, voiced films, and implemented joint music projects.
Principles and Awards
Along with Hlyvniuk, other representatives of the cultural sphere were honored on this day. In particular, TV host Tymur Myroshnychenko received the Order "For Merit" of III degree.
Andriy Hlyvniuk is known not only for his creativity and service but also for his principled life positions. In 2024, he declined the international Sergey Magnitsky Prize. The reason for the refusal was disagreement with the position of some laureates regarding military support for Ukraine. This decision, along with his combat experience, shaped the image of an artist who puts the country's interests above personal achievements and fees.
