The leader of the rock band Time Machine, Andrei Makarevich, who is known in Russia as a foreign agent, faced a difficult question about whether he would travel to say farewell to his bandmate, drummer Yuri Borzov. The situation was reported by Life in connection with Shot.
In discussions with the publication, Makarevich explained that he could not fly to Russia because of his ongoing work commitments. He is slated to perform in Tel Aviv on February 9 and has been residing in Israel in recent years, a detail that underscores the practical barriers to a reunion during a time of personal loss.
Yuri Borzov passed away on February 8. The publication’s source clarified that Borzov had been battling cancer for roughly six years, and Makarevich also confirmed that the artist had been fighting cancer. The news underscored a prolonged struggle that had touched both the public and those close to Borzov, highlighting the heavy toll that illness can take even on long-standing musical collaborations.
Borzov and Makarevich first crossed paths at school, where Borzov suggested the striking name Mashina Vremeni for the band. Borzov served as Mashina Vremeni’s drummer until 1972, contributing to the early development of a group that would become a defining force in their country’s rock scene. In addition to his percussion work, Borzov studied graphics and architecture, a combination that reflected a broader artistic sensibility beyond the drum kit and studio recordings.
Beyond the stage, Borzov engaged in activities outside pure music. Beginning in 1985, he participated in search efforts and took part in the reburial of World War II soldiers, a testament to a sense of civic duty and reverence for history that extended beyond his life in rock. This aspect of his life reveals a commitment to commemoration and community that resonated with fans and fellow artists alike.
Earlier in his career, Borzov also wore the hat of a music critic and contributed to the development of a prominent televised project. He helped to shape The New Star Factory, a program that sought to spotlight emerging talent and draw attention to new voices in music. His involvement in this venture highlighted a broader interest in nurturing the next generation of artists and keeping the artistic community dynamic and forward-looking.