Destroyed Residential Building Under Gray Sky

The Complexity of Engaging With My Russian Fans

Disclaimer for Russian Readers

Before we proceed, I want to make it abundantly clear that I fully support Ukraine in the ongoing conflict. This post may contain viewpoints that are upsetting to some, particularly my Russian fans. While I appreciate your support for my music, it’s crucial to be transparent about where I stand on this issue.

As you might know, I have a diverse fan base that spans across the globe. I’m grateful for the love and support I receive from all corners of the world. Especially strong are the Latin American countries, the Baltic region, but also Turkey, Northern Africa, Southeast Asia, Japan and โ€“ of course โ€“ Russia.

However, the ongoing Russian invasion of Ukraine has put me in a difficult position, particularly when it comes to engaging with my Russian fans. I feel compelled to address this issue openly, as it’s something that has been weighing heavily on my mind.

Music has an unparalleled ability to bring people together, regardless of their geographical location, cultural background, or political affiliations. However, in a world increasingly divided by geopolitical conflicts โ€“ most notably the ongoing crisis between Russia and Ukraine โ€“ I find myself grappling with a complex moral dilemma. Specifically, how do I navigate interactions with my fans from countries embroiled in such conflicts? To delve deeper into this issue, I’ve compiled a comprehensive Top 50 ranking of countries where my music is most popular, based on data from SoundCloud, Spotify, and Apple Music.

The Global Footprint of My Music: A Comprehensive Top 50 Ranking

First and foremost, I want to express my deepest gratitude to all my fans around the globe. Your unwavering support has been both humbling and inspiring. According to my multi-platform statistics, the Top 50 countries where my music is most listened to are as follows:

  1. ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ United States
  2. ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ช Germany
  3. ๐Ÿ‡ท๐Ÿ‡บ Russia
  4. ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ง United Kingdom
  5. ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Ukraine
  6. ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡ฝ Mexico
  7. ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Canada
  8. ๐Ÿ‡ฏ๐Ÿ‡ต Japan
  9. ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ท Turkey
  10. ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ท France
  11. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ณ India
  12. ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡บ Australia
  13. ๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡บ Hungary
  14. ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ธ Spain
  15. ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ญ Switzerland
  16. ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ช Belgium
  17. ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Netherlands
  18. ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ท Argentina
  19. ๐Ÿ‡ง๐Ÿ‡ท Brazil
  20. ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ฑ Poland
  21. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Israel
  22. ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ช Sweden
  23. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡น Italy
  24. ๐Ÿ‡ท๐Ÿ‡ด Romania
  25. ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡น Austria
  26. ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฑ Chile
  27. ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ท South Korea
  28. ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ญ Philippines
  29. ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ด Norway
  30. ๐Ÿ‡ซ๐Ÿ‡ฎ Finland
  31. ๐Ÿ‡ณ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Nigeria
  32. ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Saudi Arabia
  33. ๐Ÿ‡ฑ๐Ÿ‡น Lithuania
  34. ๐Ÿ‡ฆ๐Ÿ‡ช United Arab Emirates
  35. ๐Ÿ‡ฒ๐Ÿ‡พ Malaysia
  36. ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ช Kenya
  37. ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ฟ Czech Republic
  38. ๐Ÿ‡น๐Ÿ‡ผ Taiwan
  39. ๐Ÿ‡ญ๐Ÿ‡ฐ Hong Kong
  40. ๐Ÿ‡ธ๐Ÿ‡ฌ Singapore
  41. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ช Ireland
  42. ๐Ÿ‡ฐ๐Ÿ‡ฟ Kazakhstan
  43. ๐Ÿ‡ต๐Ÿ‡ช Peru
  44. ๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ญ Ghana
  45. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ถ Iraq
  46. ๐Ÿ‡ฉ๐Ÿ‡ฐ Denmark
  47. ๐Ÿ‡ฎ๐Ÿ‡ฉ Indonesia
  48. ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡ฌ Egypt
  49. ๐Ÿ‡จ๐Ÿ‡ท Costa Rica
  50. ๐Ÿ‡ช๐Ÿ‡จ Ecuador
red and black heart illustration

Fan Support by Continent

When we consider the fan support by continent and adjust it for the total population, the list becomes even more telling:

  1. North America (Approx. 579 million population)
  2. Europe (Approx. 748 million population)
  3. Asia (Approx. 4.6 billion population)
  4. South America (Approx. 430 million population)
  5. Africa (Approx. 1.3 billion population)
  6. Oceania (Approx. 42 million population)

It’s interesting to note that despite Asia’s massive population, it ranks third in the list, suggesting that the per capita fan engagement is higher in North America and Europe. Similarly, Africa, with a population of around 1.3 billion, ranks lower.

Europe’s second-place ranking is particularly noteworthy given its smaller population compared to Asia. The high level of engagement from European countries speaks volumes.

The Weight of the Numbers

The presence of Russia (#3) and Ukraine (#5) in my Top 50 ranking is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it’s a testament to the universal language of music, its ability to transcend political and cultural barriers. On the other hand, it serves as a constant reminder of the ethical tightrope I walk on. Engaging with fans from countries actively involved in conflicts that have resulted in atrocities is a moral minefield.

The Fan-to-Population Ratio: A Revealing Metric

One of the most striking aspects of my fan base is the disproportionate level of support I receive from Ukraine. Despite the vast difference in population sizes, Ukraine ranks impressively high in my Top 50 list, even surpassing many larger countries. This outsized support from Ukraine is not just heartwarming; it’s a testament to the love and passion I receive from the Ukrainian people.

  • ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ฆ Ukraine (5th in the ranking, 37 million population): The support from Ukraine is remarkable when you consider its population size. The country ranks impressively high on the list despite having far fewer residents than many other nations in the ranking.
  • ๐Ÿ‡ท๐Ÿ‡บ Russia (3rd in the ranking, 144.4 million population): Despite its large population and high ranking, there’s a discrepancy here. The per capita support from Ukraine is significantly more intense.
  • ๐Ÿ‡บ๐Ÿ‡ธ USA (1st in the ranking, 331 million population): As the largest country on the list, it’s not surprising that the USA tops the ranking. However, in relation to its population size, the support isn’t as intense as it is from smaller countries.

This contrast adds another layer of complexity to my ethical considerations. While the sheer numbers from Russia are higher due to its larger population, the intensity of support from Ukraine is incredibly meaningful. It serves as a constant reminder of the human aspect behind the statistics and the ethical tightrope I walk on when engaging with fans from these conflicting nations.

The Harsh Reality of War

The conflict between Russia and Ukraine is not merely a political issue; it’s a devastating humanitarian crisis. Reports of war crimes, including targeted attacks on civilians, forced deportations, and sexual violence, are more than just headlines โ€“ they’re a horrifying reality for countless individuals. What complicates matters further is the seeming indifference or even tacit approval of these actions by a significant portion of the Russian populace. This societal lethargy in the face of human suffering adds another layer of complexity to my dilemma.

Specific Atrocities

It’s crucial to understand the gravity of the situation in Ukraine. The invasion by Russian forces has led to a humanitarian crisis of immense proportions. According to credible sources, including the International Criminal Court, there have been numerous war crimes committed, ranging from targeted attacks on civilians to mass killings, forced deportations, and sexual violence.

  • Over 121,000 Ukrainian children have been kidnapped and deported.
  • During the siege of Mariupol, thousands of residents were forcibly deported from Ukraine to Russia.
  • Arbitrary detention and enforced disappearances of civilians are rampant.
  • Attacks on civilians, including the use of cluster munitions in populated areas, have been documented.
  • Massacres like the one in Bucha have occurred, where hundreds of civilians were killed, some through execution.

Just to name a few.

A Balancing Act

Herein lies the essence of my moral quandary. My music enjoys popularity in the Top 50 across multiple platforms, including in countries like Russia and Ukraine, which are embroiled in a deeply troubling conflict. This presents a precarious situation: How do I reconcile the love and support I receive from Russian fans with the harsh realities of their country’s actions? How can I engage with my Ukrainian fans without appearing insensitive to the immense suffering they are enduring?

No Easy Answers

I hope this post, framed by my comprehensive Top 50 ranking, offers a nuanced perspective on the moral and ethical challenges I face. While I am profoundly grateful for the love and support from all my fans, the ongoing geopolitical crises compel me to reassess how I engage with fans from countries involved in such devastating conflicts.

For those interested in learning more about the situation, I recommend visiting the Wikipedia page on war crimes in the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Thank you for taking the time to read this. As we navigate these complex issues, let’s all strive for a more peaceful and just world.

a cassette player with headphones attached to it

The Best-Selling Songs of the 80s in the UK and Germany

I’m delighted to take you on a nostalgic journey again, back to the heart of my youth and a remarkable decade in music โ€“ the 1980s. Being born in 1973, my formative years were spent in the midst of an explosive era of music innovation and creativity. The unforgettable melodies, the iconic artists, and the cultural movements that framed this period have left a lasting imprint on me. Each song on this list sparks a unique memory, a moment of time encapsulated within the chords and lyrics of these classic tunes.

Back then, we saw a massive shift in the music landscape, from the raw acoustic and earthy sounds of the 70s, transitioning into the vibrant, electronic, and synthesized beats of the 80s. This era was marked by its pioneering use of new technology, synthesizers, and production techniques, a stark contrast to today’s music that thrives on digital platforms, streaming services, and social media influence. And of course, let’s not forget the extraordinary fashion statements โ€“ the big hair, the neon colors, and the shoulder pads that were as bold as the music itself!

Now, join me as we travel back in time, revisit the top-selling and most popular songs in the UK and Germany for each year of the 80s, and explore how these hits shaped the music and culture of the time.

Right before we dive into this musical journey, a little surprise awaits you at the end of this post โ€“ a link to a carefully curated Spotify playlist featuring all the top-selling songs from the 80s in the UK and Germany that we’re about to explore. Keep reading and enjoy this nostalgic trip, knowing that a musical treasure trove awaits you!


1980

  1. “Another Brick in the Wall (Part II)” – Pink Floyd
  2. “Call Me” – Blondie
  3. “Don’t Stand So Close to Me” – The Police
  4. “Woman in Love” – Barbra Streisand
  5. “Super Trouper” – ABBA

1981

  1. “Tainted Love” – Soft Cell
  2. “Bette Davis Eyes” – Kim Carnes
  3. “Endless Love” – Diana Ross & Lionel Richie
  4. “Stand and Deliver” – Adam and the Ants
  5. “Every Little Thing She Does Is Magic” – The Police

1982

  1. “Come On Eileen” – Dexys Midnight Runners
  2. “Eye of the Tiger” – Survivor
  3. “I Love Rock ‘n Roll” – Joan Jett & the Blackhearts
  4. “Ebony and Ivory” – Paul McCartney and Stevie Wonder
  5. “Do You Really Want to Hurt Me” – Culture Club

1983

  1. “Karma Chameleon” – Culture Club
  2. “Billie Jean” – Michael Jackson
  3. “Every Breath You Take” – The Police
  4. “Flashdanceโ€ฆ What a Feeling” – Irene Cara
  5. “Sweet Dreams (Are Made of This)” – Eurythmics

1984

  1. “Do They Know It’s Christmas?” – Band Aid
  2. “Relax” – Frankie Goes to Hollywood
  3. “I Just Called to Say I Love You” – Stevie Wonder
  4. “Wake Me Up Before You Go-Go” – Wham!
  5. “Ghostbusters” – Ray Parker Jr.

1985

  1. “The Power of Love” – Jennifer Rush
  2. “Careless Whisper” – George Michael
  3. “We Are the World” – USA for Africa
  4. “I Want to Know What Love Is” – Foreigner
  5. “Easy Lover” – Philip Bailey & Phil Collins

1986

  1. “West End Girls” – Pet Shop Boys
  2. “Don’t Leave Me This Way” – The Communards
  3. “Take My Breath Away” – Berlin
  4. “Papa Don’t Preach” – Madonna
  5. “Rock Me Amadeus” – Falco

1987

  1. “Never Gonna Give You Up” – Rick Astley
  2. “La Isla Bonita” – Madonna
  3. “I Wanna Dance with Somebody (Who Loves Me)” – Whitney Houston
  4. “With or Without You” – U2
  5. “It’s a Sin” – Pet Shop Boys

1988

  1. “Sweet Child o’ Mine” – Guns N’ Roses
  2. “A Groovy Kind of Love” – Phil Collins
  3. “One More Try” – George Michael
  4. “Orinoco Flow” – Enya
  5. “Desire” – U2

1989

  1. “Like a Prayer” – Madonna
  2. “Another Day in Paradise” – Phil Collins
  3. “Eternal Flame” – The Bangles
  4. “Back to Life (However Do You Want Me)” – Soul II Soul
  5. “The Look” – Roxette

And there we have it โ€“ a nostalgic look back at a decade filled with iconic hits that defined my youth and the music landscape of the 80s. Each song holds a precious memory, a flash from the past, a reminder of how far we’ve come, and yet, how these classics still manage to inspire and influence us today.

The 1980s was a decade unlike any other, a pivotal period that reshaped music and brought a fresh wave of sound that still reverberates today. Comparing the music scene of the 80s to today’s scene showcases a fascinating evolution โ€“ from record players and mixtapes to digital downloads and streaming services. Yet, the magic of music remains unchanged โ€“ it continues to inspire, unite, and empower us in so many ways.

As we listen to today’s music, we’re reminded of how it’s built on the foundation laid by these legendary 80s hits. These songs โ€“ their beats, their lyrics, their spirit โ€“ continue to influence modern artists, reminding us that even though times have changed, good music remains timeless.

Thanks for taking this journey with me, through the highs and lows of the music that marked my coming of age. Music is more than just a melody, it’s a connection to our past and a bridge to our future. I hope these songs brought back fond memories for you as well and continue to inspire as we navigate the rhythm of life.

Till the next nostalgic trip, keep the music playing!

As a special treat to accompany this nostalgic journey, I’ve compiled a Spotify playlist featuring all the songs mentioned above.