The news around Igor Nikolaev centers on a careful return to work after heart surgery, with expectations of a higher salary and fewer performances in the near term. A Telegram channel reported that Nikolaev will see a salary increase of at least 1 million rubles and will reduce his concert schedule to focus on select, high-value engagements.
Starting October 10, the artist will begin to review concert opportunities anew. The plan is to favor offers that are the most lucrative and located as close as possible to the capital, enabling greater efficiency in travel and logistics while preserving the quality of his performances.
On September 29, it was noted that Nikolaev had been discharged from the hospital following heart surgery. An informed source indicated that doctors did not detect any complications after the coronary artery bypass procedure and that all tests showed no ongoing pathology. Medical advice emphasized the importance of rest and advised avoiding alcoholic beverages to support recovery.
Earlier, on September 15, Telegram channels reported a medical emergency involving Nikolaev, with some outlets claiming he had been moved to intensive care. The musician’s representatives publicly denied that he was in intensive care on that day, stressing that the information did not reflect his actual condition.
There had been prior public attention around the artist’s health and career, and his team has since been focused on a measured return to performances that aligns with his recovery timeline and personal wellbeing. This careful approach aims to balance artistic commitments with health, ensuring sustainable touring plans in the months ahead [Citation: Telegram channels and Mash reports].