Edita Piekha, the iconic 87-year-old star of Soviet pop culture, continues to find joy in music, but these days, her performances are confined to the privacy of her home. According to her grandson, Stas Piekha, the legendary artist has largely withdrawn from the public eye since her retirement from the stage five years ago. Living at her country house near St. Petersburg, Piekha now spends her time reminiscing by watching her old concerts and occasionally singing at home.
"У неё всё хорошо. Большую часть времени бабушка проводит у себя в загородном доме под Петербургом, смотрит телевизор, мои выступления, пересматривает свои старые концерты. Но она не поёт публично. А вот дома – поёт, иногда без микрофона просто что-то, на разных языках, в том числе свои песни. Она не может совсем не петь," Stas shared with KP-Peterburg, highlighting how his grandmother enjoys the simpler pleasures of life.
Since making the choice to step back from her public career, Piekha has focused on enjoying the tranquility of her countryside dwelling. The artist’s decision followed concerns related to her health and the pressures of public life, especially amplified by the pandemic. She has effectively transitioned from the bright lights of the stage to the serene life she now cherishes.
Beyond singing, Piekha’s life has remained notable as she interacts with family and engages with her memories. Stas, who visits regularly, brings news from the outside world and keeps her connected with her fans. He commented, "She loves her old songs and cherishes the memories associated with them. They bring her comfort and joy every single day."0e3
Last year, Piekha was honored with the title of Honorary Citizen of St. Petersburg, reflecting the deep respect and admiration she commands even as she steps back from the limelight. This recognition was celebrated by her fans as well-deserved, though Piekha has always maintained modesty about such accolades.
Piekha's relationship with her family offers insight not only about her personal choices but also her impact on those around her. Her granddaughter, Erica Bystrova, noted, "She prefers to live quietly and without the pressures of public performances. This is where she feels most at ease." The singer’s cessation of public appearances is not just about stepping away from the stage; it is her choice to live life on her own terms during her golden years.
Despite being largely removed from public performances, Piekha's influence remains relevant, eliciting fondness and nostalgia among her longtime admirers. With over 500 songs to her name, her legacy continues through the cherished memories of her music. From her famous songs like "Our Neighbor" to "City of Childhood," her music remains part of the cultural fabric for many.
Throughout her career, Piekha often engaged with complex political sentiments, once asserting back in 2014, "Политика — относительная вещь. Один считает так, а другой — по-другому. Не хочу судить и быть невежливой. Пусть политики разберутся сами, а артистов вмешивать туда, где война, не надо." Her thoughts during turbulent times underline her perspective on the artist's role against the backdrop of broader societal issues.
Reflecting on the conflict arising from the war, she simply stated, "Мне это не понятно," illustrating her confusion toward the situation. Her granddaughter, Ilona Bronevitskaya, insists Piekha's stance aligns with patriotic sentiment, communicating, "Она бывала и в Афганистане, и других горячих точках. Мы на стороне своей родины!" echoing the sentiment of commitment for their homeland.
Edita Piekha has lived through tremendous changes over her lifetime, having been married three times, with her personal life drawing intrigue much like her professional accomplishments. From her first husband composer Alexander Bronevitsky to her marriages with KGB Colonel Gennady Shestakov and presidential administration employee Vladimir Polyakov, her life has unfolded as one intertwined with notable figures.
Today, her focus lies not on the stage, but on the quiet harmony of her home and the love of her family. While the world remembers her as one of the leading artists of the Soviet era, she embraces the peaceful hours filled with music at home, secure in her legacy. Edita Piekha may no longer grace the public stage, but her songs continue to resonate behind closed doors where she sings for herself and her family. It’s this intimacy of artistry where her true essence shines, keeping her spirit alive.