Lidia Ruslanova, born in 1900 in Saratov Governorate, Soviet Russia, was a distinguished Soviet folk singer, best known for her powerful and emotive renditions of Russian folk songs. Her career took off in the 1930s, and she became one of the most celebrated Russian performers of the 20th century. She was noted for her strong, resonant voice, which was perfectly suited to the traditional songs she performed.
During World War II, Ruslanova gained significant fame and affection as she performed for Soviet troops on the front lines, earning her the informal title of the "soldier's singer." Her repertoire included scores of folk tunes, including "Valenki" and her performances of "Колхозная полька" reflected the ideological shifts and cultural policies of the time. Although her career was at times fraught with political challenges—she was arrested during Stalin's reign and later rehabilitated—Ruslanova's cultural impact endured. Even posthumous releases, such as "Окрасился Месяц Багрянцем (2022 Remastered)" and collections like "Velikie ispolniteli Rossii XX veka: Lidija Ruslanova," continue to introduce her passionate interpretations to new generations. Lidia Ruslanova's contribution to Russian music looms large, and her recordings remain a testament to her extraordinary talent and the enduring power of folk traditions.
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