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)
АминьГригорий Лепс
When discussing the Russian music scene, you can’t leave out Grigory Leps.
In his early days he focused mainly on Russian pop, but as his career progressed he shifted toward soft rock, and today he’s popular across a wide range of ages, from young people to the middle-aged.
Though his appearance gives off a intimidating, Russian-mafia-like vibe, he has a deep, powerful voice that perfectly matches that impression.
It’s not just low—his vocal range is very broad, making him a highly skilled singer-songwriter who can handle a variety of genres.
Свободная кассаЛенинград
Leningrad is a band that represents the genre known as gypsy punk, which adds punk rock elements to Romani music.
They’re a highly humorous band, and their lyrics—though hardly tame—are extremely provocative and unique.
Musically, they’re close to the electro-swing that’s popular in Europe, blending a catchy groove with a stylish vibe.
Gypsy punk also incorporates many jazz elements, so if you like jazz, this is a band you should definitely check out!
ИностранецВалерий Меладзе
Valery Meladze, a Russian singer-songwriter who has won popularity for his sophisticated musicality.
His style spans a wide range, excelling in classic Russian pop, art rock, and pop rock.
His greatest appeal is his voice: despite his high vocal range, it has a husky quality, giving his singing tremendous power.
It’s a wonderful voice that suits both catchy songs and the darker musical character typical of Russia, so be sure to check him out.
Recommended Russian artists: Popular international singers and singer-songwriters (11–20)
Танцы на кухнеFEDUK
Feduk, a highly popular figure in Russia’s hip-hop to pop scene, is an artist born in 1991 from Moscow, Russia.
Well-known not only in his home country but also among music fans who follow the Russian music scene, he had a major breakthrough with the 2017 hit Rozovoe vino, a collaboration with fellow popular Russian rapper Eldzhey.
True to many contemporary rappers, his style is melodic rather than hard-hitting, making it very easy to listen to.
His slightly low, sexy vocal tone fits perfectly over refined, house-influenced tracks—stylish and cool.
Some songs even center on melancholic melodies with an almost indie rock feel, so even beginners should be able to enjoy his music without being put off by the Russian lyrics.
SensationLerika
Relika, a Russian songstress who has gained popularity with her catchy musical style and lovable personality.
Although she was born in the Czech Republic, she has reportedly lived in Russia since the age of 13.
She debuted in 2004, but rose to fame after representing Russia at the Junior Eurovision Song Contest, a major European music competition, in 2011.
While her music is rooted in orthodox pop, she’s a highly skilled singer with the vocal prowess to back it up—no surprise for someone who has competed on such a big stage!
Хочешь?Земфира
Zemfira is a Russian female singer-songwriter with a boyish look who enjoys great popularity among women as well.
She was a hugely successful artist in the 2000s, and her musical style centers on the hallmarks of Russian pop—namely, heavy sound and dark melodies.
One of her hit songs, “Хочешь?” (“Do You Want?”), exemplifies this, featuring a refined, powerful melody that stands out even within its darkness.
If you’d like to experience authentic Russian pop, be sure to check it out.
МорякFEDUK
Fedok is a rapper gaining popularity in the Russian hip-hop scene.
Compared to the US and UK, Russia’s hip-hop is more musically diverse, sparking booms across many styles.
Among them, one popular trend is house rap.
Fedok is recognized as a leading figure in this house rap wave, earning props especially from younger audiences.
If you like laid-back hip-hop, be sure to check him out.