Irina Vidova Revives Oleg Molchan’s “Gulyay, Kazak!”

Back in 1996, the Cossack Ataman Congress awarded composer Oleg Molchan the rank of yesaul for his songs “Gulyay, Kazak!” and “Oy, vy drugi moi, drugi,” set to the lyrics by Uladzimir Nyaklyayew. The band Pesniary performed these songs from their program The Cossack Volnitsa during a vacation at the Belaya Rus sanatorium in Tuapse. At that time, Oleg Molchan’s original compositions, along with his arrangements of folk songs like “Raspryagayte, khloptsy, koney” and “Ty zh mene pidmanula,” thrilled the Cossacks and left them in awe.

Three decades later, these songs have not been forgotten. They continue to be performed in concerts today. Currently, they are part of the repertoire of Akim Tishko and the Batka Ataman ensemble. Once again, Oleg Molchan’s music has captivated audiences beyond Belarus.

From July 17 to 20, the Lipetsk Region hosted the interregional festival Kazachya Zastava 2025. Irina Vidova participated in the festival’s concert program. The singer received thunderous applause for her performance of “Gulyay, Kazak!”

“The weather was rainy, but somehow people still managed to applaud and hold umbrellas,” Irina Vidova shared. “It was especially meaningful because I was performing this song for the first time. The spirit of the song perfectly matched the mood of the Cossacks, which made it all the more special.

“‘Gulyay, Kazak!’ has been one of my favorite songs since the 90s — it was born right before my eyes. I recorded it specifically for the festival at Ray Records studio. It turned out so well that I decided to add it to my official repertoire.”

The song will also be available on digital platforms as a solo version by Akim Tishko and as a duet performed by both artists.