Two Versions of Oleg Molchan’s Song “Uletay, Dusha!” 

Two Versions of Oleg Molchan’s Song “Uletay, Dusha!” 

This year, Irina Vidova and the Ray Records label continue to unveil premieres and new releases of renowned songs by Oleg Molchan. Today, we present two versions of his celebrated song, “Uletay, dusha!” performed by Irina Vidova.

Originally composed in 2000, “Uletay, dusha!” also gave its name to Irina Vidova’s third album featuring Oleg Molchan’s compositions.

But what was happening in the composer’s life a quarter-century ago? At the age of 35, after leaving the legendary ensemble Pesniary, Oleg Molchan began crafting a repertoire exclusively for Irina Vidova. It was during this period that he established his own recording studio within the Union of Composers. Many were surprised — first, by his organizational talents, and second, by his new music. These compositions were entirely outside the traditional Pesniary style, which delighted a more sophisticated audience. At the time, it was hard to believe that the same composer behind the Pesniary hits “Obmanite menya” and “Rozhdestvenskaya kolybelnaya” also wrote Irina Vidova’s “Lunniye tantsy” and “Potselui.” His boundless talent, however, made it all possible.

Life proved that Oleg Molchan did everything right. The hit “Uletay, dusha!” marked the beginning of a triumphant era for his songs on the airwaves. The lyrics were penned by Irina Vidova, who subtly captured musical trends while blending them with the classical poetry of Sándor Petőfi and Konstantin Balmont.

Two distinct versions of “Uletay, dusha!” were created from the outset: a dance-oriented version for radio stations and a slow, soulful rendition. The latter was recorded at Ray Records in honor of the composer’s anniversary, as the song celebrates its twenty-fifth year.

“This is truly mesmerizing music, transporting you into a world of fantasy. It is a pop song, yet it remains rooted in the traditions of classical music,” says Irina Vidova. “I believe the Maestro’s soul rejoices knowing that his songs continue to live on.”