Ukrainian Artist Vinesto Talks New EP "1718"

Leading with his energizing single "Great Big World," Vinesto opens up about reflecting on his teenage years and the current state of the world in his new EP.

Photo Courtesy of WMA

You just released your new EP “1718.” From inception to recording it in the studio, what was the creative process behind this EP?

I wanted to release an EP about how I felt during my teenage years. The thoughts and experiences I had from 13 all the way to 18. I started releasing my music when I was 17 and finished the album by 18 hence the name 1718. This album to me now is a little baby Vinesto singing and trying to get his voice heard. Each song on the album has a personal meaning to me, the song "Home" right now more than ever with the events happening in Ukraine.

Your latest single “Great Big World” inspires listeners to venture outside of what they know and explore what’s out there. Was this inspired in your life?

I always dreamed to see the world, big cities, small towns, villages anything. I love learning about new cultures, seeing how other cultures view things and how they think. To me being culturally understanding is such an important thing. I have learned to understand the differences between me and other people, the way that we think, what we want in life and what inspires us. That’s why I released Great Big World, I want people to step outside their bubble and remember that there is a whole world out there with people who are probably feeling the same way and experiencing similar things to you.

Photo Courtesy of WMA

Your music feels like a unique fusion of unique storytelling and pop. How would you define your sound?

Honestly I don’t know, I don’t think I am at that point in my career where I can say that’s it, that’s my sound. I am just experimenting and trying to see what feels like me. So far it has been sharing my experiences in life.

You recently turned eighteen! How are you navigating your career while also getting to experience and evolve through your teenage years?

It has been really hard recently. I was born in Ukraine, grew up in Ukraine, and both of my parents are in Ukraine. Life took a massive change when I turned 18 in ways I could never imagine. So far, I am just trying to get through my last few weeks at school and I’m praying for my parents and all those in Ukraine that this nightmare will soon be over. I feel very insignificant at this point in life because the things that are happening around me are those I can’t control, so I am just trying to focus on what I can do.

You’ve been using your platform to share important resources and express your support for your home country of Ukraine. Is there something you’d like your listeners to know about how to help? Or express how your motherland has inspired your music?

Ukraine has had and always will have a very special place in my heart, I feel the closeness to it now more than ever. I am inspired by the strength of people in Ukraine right now, while the world is watching, Ukraine is fighting. People are fighting for their lives. I want to encourage everyone to keep fighting for what is right - Peace! Keep protesting, keep donating, watch the news and stay aware of propaganda now more than ever.

Resources for ways to help Ukraine are available @withukraine. Their Instagram page will have information on ways people can help Ukraine both through financial support as well as in ways which are completely free. Stand With Ukraine!

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Make sure to follow Vinesto on Instagram for the latest updates. You can listen to his latest EP "1718" now on Spotify and all streaming platforms. Follow @withukraine for resources on how to help.