Since the Russian invasion of Ukraine began in February of this year, artists of all stripes have linked arms and put out benefit comps, charity merch and more to fund aid for Ukrainian citizens who've had their homeland under attack. Today, Primus bassist-singer Les Claypool has unveiled his contribution to the cause, which comes in the form of an amusing collaborative song with members of Gogol Bordello, the Police, Sean Lennon and more titled "Zelenksy: The Man With the Iron Balls."
As with most musical projects Claypool's involved in, the song has an odd sense of humor to it, heralding Ukraine president Volodymyr Zelensky as a brave beacon of resilience — a man with balls made of iron, in fact. Musically, it's got an Eastern European folk vibe to it that borrows from Primus' and Gogol Bordello's sounds in equal measure. Listen above via YouTube and read Claypool's description of the track below.
"This is not intended to be a song of condemnation," Claypool said of the track. "This is a song of unity and anti-bully mentality, giving praise to a man who stepped up for his people beyond anything I've seen in my tenure on this planet. This unlikely fellow has grabbed the reins of leadership and held fast in such a way that the world is now galvanized in support. His legendary quote 'We need ammunition, not a ride' — Patrick Henry couldn't have said it better himself. Zelensky is truly 'The Man With the Iron Balls.'"
All of the proceeds from sales of the song will benefit Nova Ukraine, a nonprofit organization that's dedicated to providing aid to Ukrainians in need of humanitarian assistance.
