“Skryabin” (Скрябін) is a legendary Ukrainian band that became a symbol of its era. Founded in 1989 in the city of Novoyavorivsk (Lviv region), the group evolved from synth-pop and electronic music to mature pop rock, while maintaining its authenticity and sincerity.
The founder and irreplaceable leader of the band was Andriy Kuzmenko, better known by his stage name Kuzma Skryabin — a musician, TV host, writer, and producer who managed to combine humor, honesty, social awareness, and deep humanity in his creative work.
Beginnings (1980s–1990s)
The band’s story began in the late 1980s, when Andriy Kuzmenko, Rostyslav Domyshevskyi, and Serhiy Hera formed the first lineup of “Skryabin.” Their early works were synth-pop with electronic elements, inspired by Western acts such as Depeche Mode, Kraftwerk, and Alphaville.
Their first demo recordings and performances drew attention from the underground music scene. By the early 1990s, the band was actively performing and recording, combining electronic sound with Ukrainian lyrics — a rarity at the time.
First Success
Widespread recognition came with the album “Ptakhy” (Birds, 1995), where electronic rhythms blended with melancholy melodies and atmosphere. Even greater popularity followed with “Kazky” (Fairy Tales, 1997), featuring hits like “Stari Fotohrafii” (“Old Photographs”), “Kvitka” (“Flower”), and “Plastykova Yalynka” (“Plastic Christmas Tree”).
By the late 1990s, the band gradually moved away from pure electronic music, searching for a more live and organic sound — a shift that defined their future path.
Evolution and Maturity
The transitional album “Khrobak” (Worm, 1999) marked the turning point between early synth-pop and the band’s new direction. It was here that socially conscious lyrics, ironic life observations, and Kuzma’s trademark sarcasm began to shine.
From the early 2000s, “Skryabin” established itself in the pop rock / alternative rock genre, developing a recognizable style. Kuzma became the main songwriter and creative force behind the band.
The most notable albums of this period include:
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“Modna Krayina” (Fashionable Country, 2000)
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“Stryptyz” (Striptease, 2001)
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“Pro Lyubov?” (About Love?, 2003)
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“Tanho” (Tango, 2005)
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“Hlamur” (Glamour, 2006)
It was during this time that songs became true national favorites: “Lyudy, Yak Korabli” (“People Are Like Ships”), “Mistsya Shchaslyvykh Lyudey” (“Places of Happy People”), “Spy Sobі Sama” (“Sleep On Your Own”), “Shampanski Ochi” (“Champagne Eyes”), and “Mama”.
Musical Philosophy
The main feature of “Skryabin” was sincerity.
Kuzma wrote lyrics in simple, everyday language, addressing real life — its joys and sorrows, love and disappointment, humor and self-irony. He looked at reality with both lightness and sadness, expressing what millions of Ukrainians felt.
His songs are a mirror of society — filled with nostalgia, hope, protest, and tenderness.
A Tragic Chapter
On February 2, 2015, Andriy Kuzmenko died in a car accident near the village of Lozuvatka (Dnipropetrovsk region).
This tragedy was a heavy blow for all of Ukraine: the country lost an artist who spoke the truth and remained authentic.
After his passing, the band continues to perform Kuzma’s songs, and his creative legacy lives on in the hearts of millions of listeners.
Achievements
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Over 20 albums and hundreds of songs that became part of Ukrainian music history.
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Numerous musical awards and honors.
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Participation in television projects and music shows.
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Skryabin’s songs are studied in schools and performed at cultural events.
Interesting Facts
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Kuzma had a medical education but chose music as his life’s path.
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He hosted popular TV shows such as “Shans” and “Sheikanemo”, collaborating with various Ukrainian channels.
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He wrote an autobiographical book “Ya, Pobeda i Berlin” (“Me, Pobeda, and Berlin”), humorously describing his adventures.
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He always performed in the Ukrainian language, supporting native culture even in challenging times.
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Actively produced young artists and supported new projects.
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The song “Mistsya Shchaslyvykh Lyudey” (“Places of Happy People”) became an anthem of optimism and inner light.
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Monuments to Kuzma have been erected in various Ukrainian cities, and several streets bear his name.
Legacy
“Skryabin” is more than just a band — it’s a life philosophy filled with love, honesty, and irony.
Kuzma Skryabin left behind timeless music. His words and songs continue to inspire new generations of Ukrainians — to believe, to dream, and to stay true to themselves.
