Cannes Lions
SAATCHI & SAATCHI UKRAINE, Kiev / MINISTRY OF FOREIGN AFFAIRS OF UKRAINE, ZELENSKA FOUNDATION / 2023
Overview
Entries
Credits
Background
2022 was very hard for Ukrainian children. They grew up in areas affected by the conflict and experienced multiple displacements, disruptions to their education, and exposure to violence and trauma. Children are suffering the most in this war, with families being separated, parents being killed, missile strikes hitting civilian infrastructure and cities, and frequent blackouts
To help those children we decided to use the most popular Christmas song ever. A song bringing the Christmas mood for more than 100 years, and known the world over.
It is also interesting to note that the origins of the song are actually from Ukraine itself, with the famous melody being based on a traditional Ukrainian folk song. The arrangement by Mykola Leontovych in 1914 transformed the folk song into the now-iconic "Carol of the Bells", which has been enjoyed by millions of people worldwide.
Idea
We turned this famous Xmas carol into a donation platform using Shazam, to help Ukrainian children suffering from war. Carol of the Bells was transformed into Carol for Charity. The new version of the song told stories of children affected by war. And asked to Shazam it. People listen to the song and shazam it whenever they are, and immediately donate to children in just a couple of clicks.
Strategy
Did you know that the most famous Christmas carol in the world was actually born in Ukraine? We believe you didn't. "Carol of the Bells" is based, in fact, on a traditional Ukrainian folk song and was arranged by Ukrainian composer Mykola Leontovych in 1914. A Ukrainian song gave Xmas mood to the world for more than 100 years.
It was time to give back. The trick was simple and insightful. A song of Ukrainian origin began to gather money for Ukrainian children. We transformed a Xmas carol into a donation platform using Shazam and changing song lyrics. The new Carol for Charity was performed by the popular Ukrainian band Antytila and two national choirs. Our project, which brought together Ukrainian culture, technology, and charity, is a shining example of how music can be used to make a positive impact in the world.
Execution
First of all, we rewrite the text of the original Carol of the Bells to transform it into a donation Carol for Charity. The new text told the story of Ukrainian children suffering by war. Moreover, the new song asked people to Shazam itself.
We made sure everyone would know about our activation and donation platform. Our song was placed on all streaming platforms: Spotify, Youtube Music, Deezer, Apple Music, etc. We hit the rotation of 22 radio stations in 11 countries. Also, Carol for Charity was integrated directly into Christmas movies via bumper ads. The song was even performed before President Zelenskyy's New Year's speech on national TV.
Antytila's fanbase shared this song via social media, made TikToks, etc. As a result, we gathered more than 1m+ play via digital platforms.
Our project brought together Ukrainian culture, technology, and charity.
Outcome
We hit the rotation of 22 radio stations in 11 countries.
110+ m. of media impressions included 7+ m. of social media impressions
1+ m. plays via music platforms
4,5 m. UAH donated to Ukrainian children's needs