A well-known maritime lawyer is using music to raise funds and awareness for Ukraine by releasing a song and video highlighting the impact of the war from a child’s perspective.
Julian Clark, vice president and senior legal adviser of Gard, was inspired to write the song, titled Putin’s War, after hosting two Ukrainian refugee families in his UK home. He is still in close touch with them.
Now Clark is releasing the song and video for downloading as part of his new fundraising campaign entitled Dancing In the Craters which is available to view here.
Recorded by Clark’s rock band Love Street at Peter Gabriel’s Real World Studio and produced by award winning producer George Shilling, Putin’s War features guitar solos, soulful saxophone, and grand piano and violin, to accompany Clark’s vocals. The song is brought to life through a thought-provoking video produced by Ukrainian film producer Angelina Bakaliar who weaves real-life footage with emotive graphics.
Proceeds from the song’s sales are being shared between international maritime charity Stella Maris, which is supporting displaced Ukrainian seafarers and their families, and Caritas Ukraine which provides humanitarian support in the country.
This is not the first time Clark has used music to raise funds for shipping-related charities. During the pandemic he was part of a virtual band and choir who recorded a version of Rod Stewart’s single Sailing to raise funds.
Launching the Dancing in the Craters campaign today, Clark, formerly with Ince, said: “This is the most challenging but meaningful thing I have ever done. I felt compelled to write this song and Angelina’s powerful visuals have brought it to life and helped us to take the audience on this journey with Ukraine’s people. Hope shines through the tragedy and we all look forward to the day that sunflowers once again grow in a rebuilt Ukraine.”
Urging people to donate what they can he said: “The Ukrainian people need our support. What has become page four or five reading for many remains front page for those fighting for their country in Ukraine. Every donation, no matter how small, can make a real difference for the people of Ukraine, Ukrainian seafarers and their families. Help us support Ukraine and ensure their struggle is not forgotten.”
While any donation is welcome, the campaign guides that £21 will buy a food box to feed a Ukrainian family for one week.
Donations to the Dancing in the Craters fundraising campaign are via its Just Giving page.
