Mongolian metal band The Hu is the first ever to be named UNESCO’s Art for Peace. Previously-named Artists for Peace include Celine Dion, Herbie Hancock, and Marcus Miller. That’s pretty amazing!

Mongolians have a deep respect for their history, culture, and language that has been passed down from previous generations. The Hu’s goal is to perform a unique genre of music that gives its listeners strength and power. Secondly, they want to show the world of Mongolia’s nomadic and environmental lifestyles in order to inspire others to live simple lives.

“UNESCO electing The Hu with ‘Artists for Peace’ designation shows their appreciation towards cultural diversity and heritage pieces that are of great value to Mongolians. The partnership between The Hu and UNESCO will bring awareness towards every culture that is distinguished by its unique heritage and core values, so we are excited to be part of a movement that can improve and change so many lives.”

The Hu on Winning The Peace Award

“We sincerely appreciate being selected by UNESCO as part of their ‘Artists for Peace and understand the importance of the designation,” added tumur khuur and tsuur player Jaya. “From a very young age we have been practicing traditional music techniques and instrumentation such as long song, throat singing, horse head fiddle, tsuur and tovshuur, as we know the significance and impact of sharing one’s culture around the world has to rest of the society. Our music delivers profound ideas that are understood in the subconscious mind while delivering hard rock and ethereal tunes.

“On the surface level, our lyrics and music seem to talk about basic yet important principles of human beings; on a deeper level, they share the preservation of cultures that are in danger of going extinct and allow us to be representatives for groups who have slightly different world perspectives than the modern world. This is a huge inspiration for us and part of our purposes as artists. Therefore, we will do everything in our power to be the inspiration for the cultures that are underrepresented and work with UNESCO to bring them the attention that they deserve.”

If you enjoy music, you’ll want to listen to the Hu! They’ve been selected as Artists For Peace and will help promote UNESCO’s values through upcoming events in order to make a difference. Get their latest record “Rumble of Thunder” here.