Recommended Russian artists: Popular international singers and singer-songwriters
Russia is a country that enjoys overwhelming support in classical and metal music.
In Japan, there isn’t much of a culture of listening to foreign music other than English and Korean, so many people may not be familiar with it, but the Russian music scene actually boasts world-class quality.
This time, I’ve picked out some artists and bands that are active in Russia.
I’ve selected songs from a wide range of genres, so please try finding a favorite artist.
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Recommended Russian artists. Popular overseas singers and singer-songwriters (1–10)
Это все онаСергей Лазарев
Sergey Lazarev, known as a member of the band Smash!!, is also an artist whose solo work draws attention, gaining popularity not only as a singer but also as a dancer and actor.
Among his works, one of the biggest hits is Eso vsyo ona (Это все она).
It’s a dance track largely arranged in a minor key, giving it a uniquely crafted atmosphere.
If you enjoy engaging, entertaining pieces, be sure to check it out.
Mi Mi MiSEREBRO
I think there are very few people in Japan who are well-versed in Russian music.
Most people probably couldn’t name any Russian songs even if asked, right? However, I believe many have heard “Mi Mi Mi.” It was frequently used on TikTok and Vine and was often played at clubs in Japan.
The performers are SEREBRO, a group that enjoys immense popularity in Russia, mainly with pop songs.
Be sure to check them out.
ДержиДима Билан
In Europe, it’s well known that competing in the Eurovision Song Contest is a great honor.
Dima Bilan is an artist who has the distinction of appearing at Eurovision twice, and he’s recognized as one of Russia’s leading performers.
His biggest hit is this track, “Держи” (Derzhi, meaning “Hold”).
Its stylish melody—blending the then-trendy deep house with Russian pop—really stands out.
Be sure to check it out.
OzluyorumDATO
Dato Kujaidze, a singer from Georgia known by the nickname Dato.
Although he was born in Georgia, he is currently active mainly in Russia and has gained popularity there, so we decided to highlight him this time.
His musical range is very broad, spanning from smooth R&B to the dark ballads characteristic of Russia.
He’s the kind of artist whose style changes significantly with the times, so you can enjoy a variety of musical expressions from each era.
Be sure to check him out!
#ТанецПОПРуки Вверх
Hands Up is a dance-pop group primarily rooted in genres like Eurodance, techno, and house.
Active since 1995, the group has continued to thrive for many years, with a sound that evolves year by year.
Their current music emphasizes not only an infectious groove but also distinctive lyrics and performances, making them visually engaging as well.
Of course, they also weave in the uniquely dark tonalities characteristic of Russia, making them a great recommendation for anyone who wants to experience contemporary Russian music.
НебоMiyaGi
Miyagi is a rapper who has gained popularity with a style that blends elements of Russian pop into hip-hop.
His name might seem connected to Japan’s Miyagi Prefecture, but it appears he took it from the character Miyagi in the film The Karate Kid, so there’s no real connection to Japan.
That said, he has released a Japan-inspired track titled “Samurai,” so maybe he’ll visit Japan someday.
Recommended for those who enjoy the dark melodies characteristic of Russian pop.
Где ты, там яНЮША
Nyusha, one of Russia’s leading singer-songwriters, has gained popularity for her beautiful looks and flashy dance performances.
She is among the most popular artists in Russia—so famous that every Russian knows her.
One of her hit songs is “Где ты, там я” (“Where You Are, There I Am”).
It’s dance music with a touch of Indian flavor, wrapped up in an overall flashy melody.
Be sure to check it out.