Check out our interview with Ukrainian singer, producer, actress, artist, dancer, influencer, and model Ana Kiri who recently released her new single “Beat of Freedom.”
Follow Ana @ana_kirilik
Hi Ana, please tell us a little about you?
I’m a Ukrainian artist living in Miami, Florida. I say ‘artist’ rather than just a ‘singer’ ‘cause I do a variety of arts – I write music, paint, and also dance. Love It all a lot and can never choose just one thing.
Describe yourself in 3 words?
Positive, funny, compassionate.
Describe your sound in 3 words?
Upbeat, groovy, catchy.
Who influenced you and why did you choose to make music?
I get influenced by the variety of artists around the world. Being a citizen of the world so to speak – I’m more emerged into international music industry – listening to bands from Ukraine as well as the [United] States, France, Germany and Denmark.
Music is total freedom to me. It’s immortal, it’s quick in how it travels the world and touches people’s hearts. I’ve always admired music. I went to musical school at a young age – age 6. That’s when I started learning to play piano, classical music and singing. It always amazed me how one music piece could speak to so many people on the planet. To be able to write something that would emotionally affect millions and make them feel better, understood and help release some emotion – that is an absolute dream of mine; to leave a meaningful mark like that.
Do you play any instrument?
Yes, I do. I went to musical school and spent 7 years learning how to play classical piano. And, I also play the ukulele now.
Do you ever get nervous?
Always. Social anxiety and stage anxiety is a big part of my life and what I have to live with every day. Some days are worse than the others. But, it’s all the matter of learning yourself and how to deal with certain specific things.
Tell us about your new single “Beat of Freedom?” What’s the story behind the song?
“Beat of freedom” is a powerful and uplifting patriotic music piece about the struggle of Ukraine.
Freedom or death – that is the core spirit of every Ukrainian. It was true for us in the Orange Revolution. It was true for us during the Maidan Revolution, and it is true for us today. We know who we are, and we have an absolute right to exist. The heartbeat of Ukrainians is the ‘beat of freedom.’ Without freedom, our hearts will just stop. Freedom is our truth. It is our spirit, and who we are. We are the Cossacks! And, we need justice for every soul lost!
Russia is a terrorist state. It has brought destruction, death, horror and so much pain to my people, my home. The “rescue mission” is an absolute lie. I believe that good will conquer evil, Ukraine will get the victory, and with my song, I wanted everyone to feel the uplifting and powerful energy of just how strong we believe in our rights and victory!
There are certain things people need to understand about Ukrainians:
Ukraine will never surrender. Never. Ukraine is fighting against Russian colonialism. Ukraine never had a Nazi problem. Ukraine is a democracy – Volodymyr Zelenskyy represents us. Ukrainians are very much afraid, but we won’t surrender to our fears.
What book should every entrepreneur read?
How to Win Friends & Influence People by Dale Carnegie.
What would say are the greatest lessons you learned so far?
It’s never too late, you will never know until you try, and you can always try again.
What advice would you give to your younger self and why?
Don’t be afraid to do what makes your heart happy. We come to this world with society telling us how to behave and what we are supposed to be doing with our lives. My advice is to follow your heart and do what makes you happy regardless. If it doesn’t hurt anyone else – do your thing, do you.
How would your best friend describe you?
Reliable and fun.
If you are a book, what would be the title of the book and why?
“I’m the main character and I’m not scared of that anymore!” Hahaha
What is your favorite healthy food?
I really love watermelon. That is one thing that I could probably eat all day long, 24/7! And, the best bubble gum flavor is watermelon too, just FYI 🙂
And your favorite cheat food?
Pizza, of course.
What is your own definition of happiness?
Happiness is your own choice.
If you could meet someone living or dead, who would it be and why?
I would really love to meet Luc Besson. He is the writer and director of most of my favorite movies, and I would love to chat with him.
Best advice ever given?
“This too shall pass.”
Do you support any charity?
Yes. prytulafoundation.org/en/home/support_page
Favorite song? Why?
“To Love Somebody” by Bee Gees. Those lyrics speak volumes to my soul.
What do you think of Social Media?
It’s a powerful tool, but can also be the worst trap ever.
Use it wisely and don’t have any emotional expectations from it.
Where we can follow you?
Book: Conversations with God.
Quote: “This too shall pass.”
Movie: Leon. The Professional.
Tv Series: Grey’s Anatomy.
Favorite Food: Steak and veggies.
Travel Destination: Hawaii.
Sports Team: Dynamo Kyiv.
Photo Credit: @marcophotoshoot
