Ukrainian show business has suffered a heavy loss: Nikolai Yanchenko, a People's Artist of Ukraine, composer, and poet, has passed away. The artist was only 66 years old. News of the tragic event emerged on July 1, when colleagues and friends began expressing their condolences on social media.
Circumstances of Death
The news of the musician's passing was first confirmed by his colleague, singer Natalia Fallion, known for the series "Lisapetny Batalion". On her Instagram, she called Yanchenko an incredibly talented poet and friend who had passed away.
Details of the tragedy were clarified by Vinnytsia journalist Tatyana Redko. According to her, the artist's death resulted from an accident: he died from an electric shock in the pool of his country house in the village of Strizhavka. Acquaintances addressed him by the affectionate nickname "People's Godfather" (Narodny Kum), emphasizing his connection with the audience.
Colleagues' Memories
Special words of grief were voiced by singer Irina Fedishin, whose creative path was closely linked with Yanchenko. He was the author of many of her hits, including the songs "Lyshye u nas v Ukraini" (Only in Ukraine), "Perelaz", "Rodina" (Motherland), and "Sumniy svyatiy vechir" (Sad Holy Evening).
Fedishin expressed deep sympathy to the artist's wife Natalia, his son, and all his loved ones. She described Nikolai as a bright, kind, and sincere person who loved his country, Ukrainian songs, and people without bounds. "His talent, wisdom, and humanity will forever remain in our hearts," the singer wrote.
Path to Fame
Nikolai Yanchenko was born on December 14, 1959, in the village of Kanava, Tulchyn district, Vinnytsia region. His professional path did not begin on stage, but in the cultural sphere: after graduating from the Tulchyn Cultural and Educational College, he worked as the artistic director of a cultural center in the village of Moievka for more than 20 years.
The singer began his active show business career in the 1990s. His work was dedicated to Ukraine, family, rural traditions, and native land. Among his most famous compositions, written and performed by him, are "Oy, choho zh ty mamo", "Nalyvay, kuma!" and "Moya rodina".
The state highly appreciated the musician's talent for his contribution to the development of culture: in 2007 he was awarded the title of Honored Artist of Ukraine, and in 2016 he became a People's Artist of Ukraine.