Rock, born under strict Soviet censorship and total prohibitions, and which survived the transformative era of perestroika in the late ’80s and early ’90s, is unimaginable without the band DDT.

It has always occupied a special niche in Russian rock and in music in general. Through Yuri Shevchuk’s songs and the vibrant performances of his band, one can study the history of modern Russia with all its sharp and unpredictable twists.

DDT’s songs are not just music; they are a chronicle of contemporary times, the history, and the soul of the country. The band’s musical language has changed drastically over the years, ranging from rhythm and blues to jazz, industrial music, and indie. Acute social issues are expressed through notes of philosophical lyrics.

Throughout its long creative life, DDT has released dozens of popular albums and toured the country and the world with several major conceptual programs that make extensive use of modern multimedia technologies. The band is known for its original video works, created with acclaimed directors and artists not only from Russia but from several other countries as well.

They compose music for film, and Yuri Shevchuk has published two collections of poetry to date. The band also actively participates in charitable work, among other projects. No matter what happens in our complex and fragile world, Shevchuk’s songs always offer two important things to contemporaries anywhere in the world: truth and hope. Perhaps this explains their phenomenal popularity over the decades.