In a conversation with the singer SHAMAN, whose real name is Yaroslav Dronov, a veteran interview with TASS recalls the early days of his music journey. At fifteen, SHAMAN began performing as a singer in a restaurant in Novomoskovsk. He balanced work with studies, pursuing a college degree in folk choir conducting while exploring his artistic voice. He later began experimenting with his first songs in a recording studio, shaping the sounds that would define his evolving style. He has spoken about trying to steer away from the chanson genre, believing his voice carried a different timbre and potential that deserved its own path.
During those early years, SHAMAN faced a string of memorable and chaotic experiences while performing in the dining room. One night he recalls singing a well-known song for the crowd, a moment that sparked a sudden and unexpected surge of energy in the hall. A heated altercation erupted, and the sheer volume of the surrounding noise made it hard to hear anything at all. In response, SHAMAN chose to pause the performance, turning off the sound and lights in the room to defuse the tension and regain control of the scene. The incident left a strong impression on him, revealing the unpredictable nature of live performance and the necessity of keeping calm under pressure.
These early moments illustrate not only the challenges of breaking into the music industry but also the resilience and quick thinking required on stage. They mark a turning point where practice, studio experimentation, and live experiences converged to shape SHAMAN’s approach to artistry. The singer’s candid reflection highlights a journey built on deliberate choice—between genres, between stage presence and studio craft, and between youth’s bold impulses and a determined professional focus. The anecdotes also underscore the influence of regional beginnings in Novomoskovsk, a city that provided the environment for a young vocalist to refine technique, build confidence, and connect with audiences who could appreciate a voice that refused to fit neatly into a single tag.
From the initial restaurant gigs to the moment the studio lights became a creative ally, SHAMAN’s path demonstrates how early exposure to crowd energy and the discipline of music education can converge to produce a distinctive sound. The evolution from a performing student to a recording artist reveals a conscientious pursuit of authenticity and a willingness to chart a unique course within the broader musical landscape. This narrative, shared with TASS, offers a window into the artist’s growth and the practical realities behind a career that blends performance, training, and creative risk-taking.