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ZHukiPop group
Country:
 Russia |
Content:
- The Band's Inception
- The Founding Father: Valery Zhukov
- From Poetry to Melody: Early Creative Explorations
- The Band's Roster: A Collective of Talented Musicians
- Roman Voitenko (Drums)
- Sasha Bodrov (Guitar)
- The Road to Recognition: Trials and Tribulations
- A Triumphant Rise: "Batareyka" and Beyond
The Band's Inception
The foundation of the "Zhuki" band was laid on August 15, 1991, when the band's frontman, Valery Zhukov, first set foot in Moscow. The group's origins are as ordinary as countless others. Four young men, each pursuing their own endeavors, converged in the capital by chance, igniting a spark that led to the creation of this remarkable band.
The Founding Father: Valery Zhukov
Valery Zhukov, the visionary force behind "Zhuki," was born into a family in the Siberian city of Biysk. His childhood unfolded much like that of his peers. Academic success marked his primary years, but his grades diminished during his secondary education. After transitioning through several residencies, fate led Valery to Abakan, where he enrolled in the Abakan College of Music but was dismissed after a year for truancy. However, he prefers to recount events differently: "Immediately after entering college, I realized it held no interest for me."
From Poetry to Melody: Early Creative Explorations
Valery's artistic journey commenced at the tender age of fourteen when he penned his first poem. Soon after, he mastered the guitar and began composing melodies. In 1991, he recorded his debut album, "Okroshka," embarking on a journey to conquer the vast expanse of Russian music in the heroic city of Moscow.
The Band's Roster: A Collective of Talented Musicians
Alexei Grachev (Bass)Born in Novosibirsk, Alexei pursued studies at the city's Technical University. His musical path commenced in 1991, and his army service involved clearing snow in Chelyabinsk. Upon his return, he joined the Novosibirsk rock scene, eventually joining "Zhuki" in 1999 after Vadik Ermolov's departure. His reputation as a devoted musician with an amicable demeanor and admirable self-restraint is widely recognized.
Roman Voitenko (Drums)
Roman hails from Lipetsk and spent his formative years in Semipalatinsk. His musical journey began in a college ensemble, and he later served as a drummer in the army's Strategic Missile Forces. Post-service, he joined the Tomsk rock scene, relocating to Moscow in 1997. His encounter with Valery Zhukov on November 19, 1998, marked the beginning of his enduring tenure as "Zhuki's" drummer. Roman is renowned for his culinary discipline, cultural sensibilities, and vast repertoire of jokes.
Sasha Bodrov (Guitar)
Born into a military family in Moscow, Sasha pursued music from childhood and began honing his guitar skills during his school years. His army service was spent in Belarus's Strategic Missile Forces, where he performed in the orchestra. Upon his discharge, he joined the band "Ekipazh" alongside his brother. Financial motivations led him to "Tender May" in 1989, where he remained until his transition to "Zhuki" in 1998. Sasha's cheerful disposition, compassionate nature, and musical prowess are undeniable.
The Road to Recognition: Trials and Tribulations
Valery Zhukov's initial pursuit of success in Moscow was fraught with challenges. Despite persistent efforts to secure airplay, his limited financial resources hindered his progress. However, chance encounters, such as his meeting with "Bravo" drummer Pavel Kuzin, played a pivotal role in his journey. Through Kuzin's connections, Valery received songwriting commissions from Yevgeny Khavtan, the leader of "Bravo." This collaboration resulted in the "Na Perekrestkakh Vesny" album, featuring iconic hits like "Etot Gorod."
A Triumphant Rise: "Batareyka" and Beyond
In 1996, Valery assembled the third lineup of "Zhuki" and embarked on recording their third album. However, the infamous 1998 financial crisis disrupted their plans. Amidst adversity, the "Monolit" studio extended a lifeline, and in February 1999, the contract for the "Batareyka" album was signed.
With the album's 1999 release, "Zhuki" witnessed a surge in their concert schedule. Their collaboration with "Discoteka Avariya" resulted in a memorable music video for the song "Vlechenie." Despite Valery's absence from the video, his distinctive presence is undeniable in the chorus.
The band's definitive lineup solidified in 2000, and their song "Tankist" became an instant sensation. Despite its overwhelming popularity, the recording of their subsequent album was postponed. In 2001, after meticulous work across three studios, the album was completed, featuring the well-known hits "Tankist" and "Podruga Druga." A collaboration with the "Nikita" record label in November of that year marked the release of the album in March 2002.
Through their unwavering dedication to their craft and unwavering camaraderie, "Zhuki" has etched an indelible mark on the Russian music landscape, captivating audiences with their infectious melodies and relatable lyrics.
