Batyrkhan Shukenov

Batyrkhan Shukenov (1962–2015) was a Kazakhstani musician, singer, composer, and saxophonist. People's Artist of the Republic of Kazakhstan, Honored Worker of Arts (2010), UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, and Cultural Advisor to the President of Kazakhstan (2007–2015).

Born into a large family, he developed a passion for music in his teens. In 1970, he entered the Leningrad State Institute of Culture (saxophone class). In 1981, he transferred to the Almaty State Conservatory, graduating in 1985.

In 1987, he co-founded the band 'Alma-Ata' (later renamed 'A-Studio'), which became one of the most successful pop groups in the post-Soviet space, producing hits like 'Julia', 'Soldier of Love', and 'Unloved'. In 1988, Alla Pugacheva invited them to her Theater of Song.

In 2000, he launched a solo career, releasing 5 albums between 2002 and 2013, including works in Kazakh — notably 'Otan Ana' (2002) and the posthumously released 'Amanat' (2015), composed entirely in Kazakh.

He passed away from a heart attack on April 28, 2015.