Real name: Natalia Vladimirovna Poryvai
Date of birth: May 31, 1973
Place of birth: Kyiv, Ukraine
Genres: pop, pop music, lyric pop, dance music
Occupations: singer, actress, TV host, entrepreneur
Years active: 1985–present
Early Years and Musical Roots
Natasha Koroleva was born into a creative family in Kyiv. Her mother, Lyudmila Ivanovna Poryvai, was a choirmaster and vocal teacher, and her father, Vladimir Vasilievich, was a choreographer. Her older sister, Irina Poryvai, later became a popular TV presenter and singer in the United States.
By the age of three, Natasha was already singing, and by five she was performing in a children’s ensemble. She studied piano at music school and began writing her first songs. Her first notable success came in 1985, at just 12 years old, when she performed the song “A World Without Miracles”.
In 1987, Koroleva entered the Kyiv College of Variety and Circus Arts, where she received professional training as a vocalist and performer. During her studies, she actively participated in contests, festivals, and television programs, showcasing her artistry and charisma.
Career Beginnings and Meeting Igor Nikolaev
A turning point in her life came in 1989 when she met composer and producer Igor Nikolaev. Recognizing her talent, he invited her to collaborate. Their creative partnership became one of the most iconic duos in Russian pop music of the 1990s.
In 1990, she released her debut album “Yellow Tulips” and the title track became an instant hit, winning the hearts of listeners across the Soviet Union. The song became an anthem of its era and remains her signature piece. This success was followed by hits such as “Dolphin and Mermaid”, “Taxi, Taxi”, “Little Country”, and “Kyiv Boy”.
Alongside her solo career, Koroleva frequently toured with Nikolaev, recording duets and music videos that are now considered Russian pop classics.
Rise to Stardom in the 1990s
Between 1990 and 1999, Natasha Koroleva released a string of albums that sold millions of copies:
- “Yellow Tulips” (1990)
- “Dolphin and Mermaid” (1991)
- “The Most-Most” (1994)
- “Candy” (1998)
- “Love Is to Blame” (1999)
During this decade, Koroleva became one of the most recognizable artists in the post-Soviet pop scene. She frequently appeared on television, took part in festivals such as “Song of the Year”, “Golden Gramophone”, and “Ovation”, and received numerous awards.
Personal Life
In 1992, Natasha married Igor Nikolaev, forming one of the most talked-about celebrity couples of the 1990s. After nearly ten years together, the couple divorced in 2001 but maintained mutual respect and friendship.
In 2003, she married Sergey Glushko, better known by his stage name Tarzan — a dancer, fitness model, and performer. Their son Arkhip was born in 2002. He has shown interest in music, studied Japanese, and begun a solo career.
2000s: A New Sound
After parting ways with Nikolaev, Koroleva shifted toward a more contemporary pop sound and romantic ballads. She released several albums:
- “Diamonds of Tears” (2003)
- “I Believe in Miracles” (2005)
- “Paradise Is Where You Are” (2007)
- “My Island” (2010)
During this time, she toured extensively, filmed new music videos, and appeared in TV shows. Her music evolved to reflect femininity, lyricism, and emotional depth.
Television and Acting
Natasha Koroleva has been a frequent guest on popular television projects:
- “Ice Age” (Channel One Russia)
- “Dancing with the Stars”
- “Two Stars”
- “Star Factory: The Return”
She has also acted in films and musicals and performed on stage in concert productions.
Recent Activity (2020–2025)
Today, Natasha Koroleva remains active in the entertainment industry:
- Touring with her anniversary program “Yellow Tulips — 30 Years Later”;
- Participating in charity concerts and social initiatives;
- Releasing new songs and videos, including “Little Country 2.0” and collaborations with young artists;
- Launching her own jewelry brand, Golden Star by NK;
- Maintaining a strong social media presence where she shares updates, family life, and behind-the-scenes content;
- Celebrating 35 years in music in 2023 with large concerts in Moscow and St. Petersburg.
She also performs at patriotic concerts, appears as a mentor and guest expert on TV programs, and continues to inspire audiences across generations.
Interesting Facts
- The song “Yellow Tulips” remains one of the most recognizable hits in the post-Soviet region.
- Natasha is deeply involved in charity work, supporting children’s and animal welfare foundations.
- In 2021, she published a book about creativity and family values.
- Her son Arkhip studied Eastern culture in Japan and has released several singles with his mother.
- She has opened her own music studio, where she trains young vocalists and performers.
Popular Hits
- Yellow Tulips
- Dolphin and Mermaid
- Taxi, Taxi
- Little Country
- The Most-Most
- Paradise Is Where You Are
- Candy
- I Believe in Miracles
- Little Country 2.0 (2023)
Legacy and Influence
Natasha Koroleva is one of the most heartfelt and enduring stars of Russian pop music. Her songs radiate warmth, positivity, and sincerity. She has managed to retain her popularity and connect with multiple generations of fans, remaining a symbol of femininity, resilience, and optimism.
