Nadezhda Georgievna Babkina — Soviet and Russian singer, performer of folk songs, actress, TV host, and People’s Artist of the Russian Federation. She was born on March 19, 1950 in Akhtubinsk, Astrakhan Region, USSR.
From an early age, Nadezhda showed great interest in music and folk art. After finishing school, she entered the Astrakhan Music College, and later continued her studies at the Gnessin State Musical and Pedagogical Institute (now the Gnessin Russian Academy of Music), where she received a professional musical education.
Already during her student years, she stood out for her bright timbre, sincere manner of performance, and love for Russian folk songs — traits that defined her future creative path.
Creative Career
In 1974, Nadezhda Babkina founded the folk ensemble “Russkaya Pesnya” (“Russian Song”), which became one of the most famous musical groups in the country. The ensemble performed both in the USSR and abroad, popularizing Russian folk music, folklore, and traditional rituals.
Later, the “Russian Song” Folklore Theater was established, bringing together music, dance, theater, and ethnography under one roof.
The artist has released dozens of albums where traditional Russian songs gained a modern sound. Her repertoire includes classic folk compositions as well as original songs, romances, and duets.
In addition to concert performances, Nadezhda Babkina actively participates in television projects, serves on juries of music competitions, and engages in charity work.
Titles and Awards
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People’s Artist of the RSFSR (1992)
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Honored Artist of the RSFSR (1985)
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Order of Honour (2005)
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Order of Friendship (2010)
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Various prizes and awards for her contribution to the development of folk art and culture
Selected Discography
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Russkaya Pesnya (1981)
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Songs of Nadezhda Babkina (1984)
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Russia — You Are the Only One (1995)
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Favorite Russian Songs (2000)
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Star Russian Hits (2005)
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Folk Heart (2010)
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I Sing of Russia (2015)
Interesting Facts
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Nadezhda Babkina actively promotes folklore and traditional folk art in modern culture.
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She is the artistic director of the “Russian Song” Theater and the festival “Play, Accordion!”.
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Known as a mentor and producer of young performers in the folk genre.
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She has performed in more than 80 countries around the world.
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Her collection includes hundreds of folk costumes and unique stage outfits created based on ancient designs.
