On January 17, 2025, London's Wembley Arena hosted the inaugural INOI rock festival, which attracted an audience of 10,000 Russians eager to experience a night of nostalgic and politically charged music. The festival, titled 'Together We Are Stronger,' aims to use art as a means of resistance against oppressive regimes.
Featuring a diverse lineup of artists, including the iconic Soviet rock band Bi-2 and contemporary figures like Noize MC and Pornofilmy, INOI serves as a platform for Russian artists who have been labeled as 'foreign agents' by the Kremlin due to their outspoken opposition to the war in Ukraine. The festival's organizers emphasized its mission to amplify voices that resist authoritarianism and promote freedom.
Throughout the event, performers delivered powerful messages condemning the actions of the Russian government and calling for unity among the diaspora. Pop singer Monetochka highlighted the festival's role in uniting diverse audiences and fostering creative resistance, stating, 'Artists are powerful because we have the possibility to gather larger or more diverse crowds than the politicians.'
INOI's London debut showcased the strength of cultural expression in the face of political adversity, resonating with a crowd that included individuals from various backgrounds, all united in their desire for change.