Country star Brad Paisley has found an unlikely duet partner: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
On the first anniversary of the Russian invasion of Ukraine, Paisley released a new song, “Same Here,” that tells of how Americans share much in common with people throughout the world. He introduces Zelensky a little more than midway through the four-minute tune — and while the Ukrainian president doesn’t sing, he does talk on the song, sharing his own thoughts on the bonds that unite us.
“We speak different languages in our life, yes. But I think we appreciate the same things: children, freedom, our flag, our soldiers, our people. The biggest treasure we have. And friends,” Zelensky says. “And we’re proud of our army who defends our freedom and will defend our lives.”
Paisley’s lyrics also reflect on how people share common values and dreams. As he sings, “However you talk, whatever you think/From the songs that you sing to the drink that you drink/If you miss your mama and worry ‘bout your babies/And love each other like crazy/And want someone to share your hopes and fear/Same here.”
According to the Associated Press, Paisley wrote the song with Leo Thomas Miller and Taylor Goldsmith and it will be featured on his upcoming album, “Son of the Mountain.”
A three-time Grammy winner, Paisley has been active in raising money to help the Ukrainian people. Royalties from “Same Here” will go to support the United24 campaign, a charitable platform for Ukraine.
Paisley told the Associated Press that Zelensky, a former actor and comedian, recognizes the power of art.
“I think he understands that art is how you reach the most people, especially in the heart,” Paisley said.
Zelensky had a hand in the song beyond just the words he contributes. Paisley told the Associated Press that he suggested changes to the collaborative effort and signed off on it.
The song appears to be resonating with Paisley’s fans. As one wrote on Paisley’s YouTube
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channel, “(T)his song brought me pretty darn close to tears.”
