Ukrainian Track “Strong-Willed” Named One of the Best Electronic Songs of the 21st Century by Resident Advisor

British music publication Resident Advisor has released its list of the 200 greatest electronic tracks of 2000–2025, which includes Strong-Willed, a track by Ukrainian vocalist Yana Pavlova and producer Pavel Milyakov.

The list was published on the magazine’s website on December 11.

The ranking was compiled based on a survey of more than 100 contributors from across the electronic music scene, including artists, DJs, clubs, labels, promoters, journalists, Resident Advisor staff, and freelancers. Ukrainian hit Strong-Willed placed 41st overall.

The track was released in 2021 as part of Pavlova and Milyakov’s joint album Blue.

According to the Resident Advisor, Mariana Berezovska, Ukrainian producer and writer, described the track as a “document of grief and resilience,” noting that “producer Pavel Milyakov’s gripping bass synths form the foundation for the gentle intonation of the late Ukrainian singer Yana Pavlova.”

She added that the composition calls for humanity and that, even though Pavlova is no longer alive, “her voice still resonates, as if she never left us.”

Ukraine’s presence on the global electronic music stage continues to grow, with Ukrainian artists increasingly featured in major international rankings.

Alongside Strong-Willed by Yana Pavlova and Pavel Milyakov, Ukrainian performers are also gaining recognition among the world’s leading DJs. Previously, three Ukrainian artists—Korolova, Artbat, and Miss Monique—have been included in DJ Magazine’s annual Top 100 DJs ranking, underscoring Ukraine’s expanding role in the global electronic music scene.

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Korolova (Olga Korolova) appeared on the list for the second year in a row, rising ten positions to 50th place. Known for her blend of melodic techno and progressive house, she is recognized for tracks such as Be Strong, Shining, and Heal My Mind.

Ukrainian electronic duo Artbat and DJ Miss Monique entered the Top 100 DJs ranking for the first time, placing 73rd and 75th respectively. Artbat, founded in 2014 by Artur Kryvenko and Vitalii Lymarenko, is widely described as a “mix of energy, vibes, and emotions.” Miss Monique (Olesia Arkusha) gained international recognition with her track Nomacita, which topped Beatport’s Melodic Techno chart.

Earlier, Kyiv’s Central Railway Station hosted a charity event titled Frequencies of Defence, bringing together Ukrainian female DJs for a performance aimed at raising funds for specially tailored body armor for women serving in Ukraine’s defense forces.

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