Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko congratulated Russian folk artist Alexander Buinov on his 75th birthday in a heartfelt message that highlighted the singer's illustrious career and contribution to east-west cultural ties. Posting on his official website, Lukashenko credited Buinov's "outstanding performance skills" and inspired work, emphasizing how they have earned him respect in the music sphere and the hearts of his fans.
“Belarusian audiences love your wonderful songs, filled with energy and optimism. I am confident that your creativity will continue to strengthen the bonds between our nations,” said Lukashenko.
Born on March 24, 1950, in Moscow, Buinov rose to fame as a singer, musician, composer, showman, and actor. He is celebrated for his contributions to the Soviet and Russian music scene and is a member of the United Russia party. The singer is also known for his public persona and vibrant performances.
Complications arose in Buinov's life when it was revealed that he is battling cancer. Earlier this month, it was announced that the state would cover the costs of his treatment, providing a detailed list of necessary medications for six months amounting to a total of one million rubles.
Reflecting on his extensive career, Buinov has shown remarkable resiliency through numerous personal challenges. He was drafted into the army in 1968, where he served in rocket troops in the Altai Territory. After his service, he pursued a career in music, training at prestigious institutions and participating in various groups such as the ensemble "Skomorokhi" with Alexander Gradsky.
In 1989, Buinov launched a successful solo career. He became a recognized figure in the music industry during the 1990s, having released ten solo albums that became hits, contributing to the cultural landscape significantly.
Buinov’s personal life has been equally eventful. He married his first wife, Lyudmila, in the early 1970s, with whom he had a daughter, Yulia. Their marriage lasted 12 years, primarily due to the child. Later, Buinov was faced with the complexities of relationships, including revelations of infidelity and the candid acknowledgment of his errors that led to his eventual divorces.
In 2000, Buinov discovered he had a son named Alexei from a brief relationship. The singer expressed surprise and concern initially, but relief followed as the child had been well cared for all those years.
However, recent events have also brought scrutiny. In February 2025, Buinov was involved in a serious incident where he struck a 61-year-old pensioner, Alla Smirnova, at a pedestrian crossing in the Naro-Fominsk region of Moscow. Smirnova, a kindergarten teacher, required hospitalization due to significant injuries. Following the incident, it was revealed that Buinov had a checkered record, with 32 traffic violations in the previous year alone, casting a shadow over his public image.
Witnesses reported the evening was dark, and Smirnova was suddenly struck by Buinov's black Lexus, leading to questions about the artist's awareness at the time. Buinov attributed the incident to age-related issues with his vision and fatigue. He stated, "I was tired, and my sight is not like it used to be. I never meant to hurt anyone.”
Buinov’s prior activities have not gone unnoticed, as he recently celebrated his milestone birthday while continuing to perform. In 2024, he released new tracks, and he is set to hold a gala concert titled “And I am an Artist” on April 6 at the State Kremlin Palace, a testament to his enduring presence in the industry.
As the musician continues to navigate the turbulent waters of fame and public scrutiny, his recent achievements, combined with ongoing challenges, keep Alexander Buinov in the spotlight. The clash of his artistic legacy against recent controversies paints a complex picture of a man who has dedicated his life to entertainment yet now grapples with the consequences of his actions.
