Hej Sokoly!
IMT Smile Lyrics

The song "Hej Sokoly!" by IMT Smile is a tribute to the beauty and nostalgia of the homeland, with the sokoly (falcons) representing hope and freedom. The lyrics describe a deep love for the country, acknowledging that life has its ups and downs but the homeland will always be a source of comfort and healing. The falcons are seen as guardians from above who watch over the people and the land, ringing out their call over the seasons. The second half of the song takes on a more mournful tone, with a reference to a tragic love story involving a young Ukrainian woman and a Cossack who cries as he leaves her behind to fight for his country. Throughout the song, the chorus repeats four times, emphasizing the significance and power of the sokoly's call.

The opening lines express a dedication to the homeland, with the phrase "v dobrom aj v zlom" suggesting a commitment not just to the good times but the difficult ones as well. The second line, "rany tie sa s tebou zhoja," is a nod to the healing powers of the land, with the idea that physical and emotional hurts can be mended in this special place. The reference to the sun and winter implies that the homeland is enduring and ever-changing, yet always providing comfort. The final line of the verse, "ty si moja domovina," leaves no doubt of the profound love the singer feels for their country.

One interesting fact about "Hej Sokoly!" is that it originated as a Ukrainian folk song, with roots tracing back to the 19th century. It was sung by Ukrainian soldiers during World War I and II as a way to inspire patriotism and provide comfort. The song became particularly popular in Slovakia during the 1980s, when it was adopted as an anthem for the struggle against communist rule. It was later performed by Ukrainian singer Sofia Rotaru, who added her own verses and made the song famous throughout the former Soviet Union.