Rapper Vacio emerged as a standout figure at Anastasia Ivleeva’s widely discussed party, where phrases like a naked spectacle circulated among guests. He used the moment to challenge the singer SHAMAN, proposing that SHAMAN demonstrate his patriotism by enlisting in the Russian armed forces. This suggestion came through Vacio’s representative, who spoke with socialbites.ca, presenting it as a direct test of commitment to the country. According to Vacio, actions will be the true measure of SHAMAN’s love for his homeland.
Vacio, referred to in media as a leading figure in contemporary rap, publicly asserted that SHAMAN had not served in the military. The invitation was clear: SHAMAN should consider signing a military contract or contributing to the armed forces in some capacity as a musician or in another role. The discussion also highlighted SHAMAN’s age, noting that he is 31, and mentioned that he had not been drafted or mobilized, though questions remained about how this status was achieved. The core question raised by Vacio’s camp was why SHAMAN could not demonstrate his devotion through service, while Vacio himself appeared willing to fulfill that duty if needed. A stance was articulated that a citizen in Vacio’s position should bear some form of service to the nation.
Anton Korobkov-Zemlyansky, who represents SHAMAN, responded to socialbites.ca with a somewhat lighthearted tone, expressing relief that Vacio had thrown down a challenge rather than a “sock,” a metaphor used in the conversation. Korobkov-Zemlyansky stated that SHAMAN is currently performing a solo concert in Volgograd, and regarding the character mentioned, it is a positive development that the glove, rather than the sock, was cast aside. The attorney’s remarks framed the incident as a public dispute about civic duty and artistic responsibility rather than a personal feud.
The party at the heart of the discussion took place on December 21 in Mutabor, drawing attention from numerous high-profile figures in the entertainment industry, including Philip Kirkorov, Lolita Milyavskaya, and Ksenia Sobchak. In the wake of the event, authorities faced criticism and several concerts were canceled after participants publicly acknowledged their attendance. Several attendees were compelled to issue formal apologies for joining the event, signaling a broader conversation about accountability and public appearances in the entertainment sector.
Vacio’s presence at the gathering, marked by a distinctive one-socked suit, contributed to a wave of negative attention. He subsequently faced legal consequences, including a petty hooliganism charge and allegations of promoting unconventional relationships. The sanctions issued included a 15-day administrative detention period and a fine amounting to 200,000 rubles. On January 6, Vacio was detained again for 10 days. Reports from Life, citing Shot, later claimed that the rapper would begin military service in the spring of 2024, further intensifying the dialogue around public figures, their obligations, and how personal choices intersect with national service.
Earlier remarks from a different artist, Orlova, suggested a cautious stance, noting that she had not seen a nude video connected to the broader conversation. This thread added another layer to the public discourse surrounding the festival, the celebrities present, and the evolving standards of behavior expected from public figures in Russia.