In a public discussion about SHAMAN, Vladimir Kiselev, founder of the Russian Media Group and a member of the duo Earthlings who has performed on RTVI, described SHAMAN as a person who does not extend handshakes. The remarks painted a picture of personal and professional boundaries that some viewers find difficult to navigate.
The exchange revealed a clear stance: Kiselev argued that being a citizen and posing as one are two distinct roles, and that distinctions should guide how artists engage with public life. When SHAMAN was invited to speak at concerts in the regions referred to as the DPR and LPR, the musician’s reply was that his wife would not permit his appearance. This response was met with frustration by Kiselev, who stressed that such refusals are not just about personal preferences but about signals sent to audiences and fellow artists alike. The conversation highlighted how national loyalties and personal choices can intersect in the careers of public figures, sometimes creating tensions within the entertainment sphere.
Despite potential risks and controversy, memories shared by various Russian celebrities—such as the singer Yulia Chicherina, TV host Yulia Baranovskaya, and others—illustrate a wider pattern where artists attended performances in disputed or sensitive regions. Kiselev acknowledged SHAMAN’s right to decline performing in crisis zones, yet emphasized that this stance does not erase the ongoing friction between the artist and those who advocate closer ties with the events in question. The discussion underscored a broader theme: how public figures navigate political landscapes while preserving professional autonomy.
According to Kiselev, during the referenced concert, SHAMAN appeared only through a recording played from a venue in Poklonnaya Gora, giving the appearance of participation without a live presence. The comment reflected a belief that individuals owe a level of responsiveness to audience expectations, even when they depart from traditional duties. Kiselev summed up his position succinctly: SHAMAN has his rights, but he chooses not to offer a greeting or direct engagement at that moment. This framing suggests a conscious decision to maintain distance while still allowing for artistic influence through recorded media.
The broader narrative includes past performances and incidents that have shaped the public memory of SHAMAN. Reports indicate that one notable concert ended violently, with shooting and stabbing, an event that likely intensified discussions about safety, venue selection, and the responsibilities of performers when addressing charged political climates. The incidents surrounding SHAMAN’s appearances continue to influence how audiences, organizers, and fellow artists perceive the role of music and celebrity in volatile environments. [CITATION: RTVI interview and subsequent media coverage]