Vladimir Matetskiy Composer Date of Birth: 14.05.1952 Country: Russia

1. Vladimir Matetsky: A Maestro of Russian Music
2. Musical Beginnings
3. Rock and Roll Roots
4. From Rock to Pop
5. "Lavender" and Beyond
6. Film and Television Success
7. International Collaborations
8. Hitmaker for All Ages
9. Later Career

Vladimir Matetsky: A Maestro of Russian Music

Vladimir Matetsky is a renowned composer, producer, radio host, and member of the Russian Authors' Society. His prolific career spans multiple decades and has garnered him numerous accolades.

Musical Beginnings

Born on May 14, 1952, in Moscow, Matetsky's love for music blossomed at a tender age. Under the tutelage of Sofya Karpilovskaya, a student of Elena Gnesina, he immersed himself in piano and guitar playing. The Beatles, in particular, left an enduring mark on his musical sensibilities.

Rock and Roll Roots

In the late 1960s, Matetsky joined various rock bands as a keyboardist, guitarist, and bassist. His early compositions, initially written in English, showcased his versatility.

After graduating high school, he enrolled at the Moscow Institute of Steel and Alloys in 1969. Concurrently, he pursued his musical aspirations as a bassist for the popular rock group "Udachnoye Priobreteniye." The band's repertoire included both cover songs and Matetsky's original compositions.

From Rock to Pop

Following his departure from "Udachnoye Priobreteniye," Matetsky transitioned to a career as a composer. His initial recordings, "Fortuna" by "Araks" and "Bolshe Ne Vstrechu" by "Karnaval," marked a shift towards pop music.

Subsequently, he penned hits for a wide range of artists, including "Veselye Rebyata," "Leysia Pesnya," Helena Vondráčková, and Yáak Joala. His first major success, "Bananovye Ostrova," became a national sensation in 1983.

"Lavender" and Beyond

In 1985, Matetsky's collaboration with Yáak Joala on the song "Lavender" propelled him to stardom. The duo's performance on television became an instant hit, transcending the borders of the USSR.

A string of popular songs followed, including "Luna, Luna," "Bylo, No Proshlo," and "Zvezdy Kak Zvezdy." Matetsky's long-standing partnership with Sofia Rotaru cemented his position as an acclaimed composer.

Film and Television Success

In 1988, Matetsky ventured into film scoring, composing the music for Vasily Pichul's "Little Vera." The controversial film became a cult classic, receiving international acclaim.

Matetsky's collaboration with Pichul continued with "In the City of Sochi, Dark Nights" and "Dreams of an Idiot." His compositions for these films further showcased his versatility.

International Collaborations

During the late 1980s, Matetsky became immersed in the "Music Speaks Louder Than Words" project, a summit between American and Russian composers. He coordinated the Russian side of the project, capitalizing on his proficiency in English.

This initiative led to collaborations with renowned artists such as Patti LaBelle and Anne Murray. Matetsky's songs also found their way into the repertoires of Alice Cooper and Iggy Pop.

Hitmaker for All Ages

Throughout his career, Matetsky has consistently written hits for both established and emerging artists. His songs, performed by Vlad Stashevsky, Katya Lel, and Nikita, have become chart-toppers.

In 1996, he received the "Ovatsiya" award for the best song of the year. His 2000 hit "Malysh," performed by Danko, held the record for the longest time in the "MUZ-TV" charts.

Later Career

Matetsky's contributions to music extend beyond his compositions. He has been a member of various television programs, such as "Song of the Year," and has served as the president of the Russian Authors' Society.

Today, Vladimir Matetsky continues to reside and work in Moscow, leaving an indelible mark on the Russian music landscape.