Alyona Alyona
Alyona Alyona — Ukraine
This former teacher raps in Ukrainian and hits the bull's eye with her lyrics. Her debut album Ribki (or Fischlein, a synonym for young women) is about women like Alyona who are not accepted by society. It became a viral hit in Ukraine where 'Salischaju swij dim' ('I leave my house') has become an unofficial anthem for the many who want to move away from their traditional life to a better future. There is something truly special about Alyona Alyona that goes beyond her undoubtedly impressive looks, her confident attitude, her captivating flow, her lyrical ability, her sound quality and even her alter ego who worked in a kindergarten.