Western DJs Face Criticism for Performing at Russian Events

Western DJs Face Criticism for Performing at Russian Events

Ukrainian Activists Argue Festivals Conceal the Reality of War

An ecstatic crowd recently danced to the beats of German, American, and French DJs at a music festival that looked like any typical European summer event. However, this festival took place just four hours from the Kremlin, the power centre behind Russia’s invasion of Ukraine nearly two and a half years ago.

The event, Outline, held from 18-24 July, was located in a scenic natural park in Russia. It attracted thousands of Russian attendees and featured performances by numerous well-known Western DJs. Since the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, many Western musicians have cancelled their shows in Russia as a form of protest. However, as the conflict continues, some foreign artists have started to return, particularly in the techno music scene, causing concern within the industry.

Ukrainian activist Maya Baklanova expressed her disapproval: “Western artists performing in Russia are normalising the war and supporting the regime.” Baklanova, who has been part of the Kyiv music community for years, pointed out that these events help the Kremlin project an image of normalcy and continued cultural engagement despite Russia’s international isolation. This issue was underscored by the media coverage of Kanye West’s recent visit to Moscow.

Propaganda and Economic Impact

According to Baklanova, Russian propaganda aims to portray a positive image of the country by emphasising cultural achievements, thereby distracting from the political situation. She leads an online campaign urging Western musicians and DJs to boycott the Russian music scene and calls on European clubs to cancel performances by artists who play in Russia. “By participating, these artists are also helping the Russian economy and indirectly supporting the military,” she argued.

Return of Western DJs

Despite these concerns, more Western DJs are being drawn to Russia by high performance fees. Baklanova criticises this trend, citing a lack of awareness and greed within the electronic music scene. Some DJs defend their participation, arguing that music should transcend politics and serve as a bridge between cultures. Brussels-based DJ Alexandre Guisson stated, “I don’t think you should label a place where free spirits come to share music as supporting a regime.”

Outline’s headliner this year, German DJ AtomTM, responded to criticism by describing it as a “smear campaign.” He emphasised his commitment to making human connections through music, which he believes unifies rather than divides. However, Baklanova counters that in present-day Russia, culture cannot be separated from politics.

Increasing State Control

Russia has intensified its crackdown on independent music, theatre, and media, reflecting a broader trend towards state control. Since the war began, many prominent anti-war filmmakers, writers, and musicians have left Russia, drawing parallels with historical exoduses of intellectuals. Those who remain face persecution and silencing.

Two anonymous Russian music insiders revealed that major events like Outline require government approval. They pointed to the festival’s sponsors, including T-Bank and Yandex, which are under Kremlin influence, and noted that pro-Kremlin outlet Lenta is the festival’s media partner. Last year, a military recruitment tent was even set up near the festival entrance.

The Message to Anti-War Artists

Baklanova argued that festivals like Outline, which have government ties, send the wrong message to anti-war Russian artists who are imprisoned or unable to perform. “The foreign DJs participating are sending a wrong signal to all the anti-war Russian artists who are in jail or unable to return or perform in Russia,” she said.