Vasily Vakulanko, known by his stage name Basta, has spoken about meeting Nadezhda Sagittarius when he was seventeen, a moment he shared during a YouTube interview. The recollection underscores the early entry into the music scene, where a teenager found himself drawn into a world that would soon gain global attention. The encounter is often recalled as a turning point in his personal narrative, illustrating how quickly fame can arrive and how it can shape the choices made in the years that follow.
After the breakout track My My My Game propelled him into the spotlight, Basta says the rise brought not only recognition but also dangerous temptations. The newfound visibility opened doors and offered connections that could derail a young artist. He notes that the attention attracted a mix of pressure and risk, and that coping with that environment required a firm sense of self.
He recalls offers of drugs, alcohol, and handshakes that meant little beyond surface fame. Vova Presnyakov warned him that the Moscow charm can enchant and crush if one loses their footing. Those cautions remained in Basta’s mind as he navigated the transition from a rising star to a more measured, thoughtful artist who values substance over spectacle.
In 2003, Vakulenko disclosed that he decided to abandon all substances altering consciousness. Since then, he has described living what many would call his best life, stating that there was no malfunction in his choice, only a clear decision to pursue a healthier path. He emphasized that he gave himself a chance to grow and that luck blessed him with the resilience to stay on course.
According to Basta, he remains a deep thinker who channels his introspection into projects beyond music. He finances a religious podcast, believing in the importance of spreading religious values and guiding listeners toward more meaningful, grounded living. This endeavor is part of his broader effort to connect with audiences who seek purpose and reassurance amid a busy world.
Earlier reports mentioned a separate exhibition-related expenditure of about 700 thousand rubles intended to support a daughter dealing with anorexia, illustrating how public figures sometimes engage with charitable work under media scrutiny. The incident is cited as part of Basta’s larger public life, where fame intersects with personal and social responsibilities.