On April 10, 2025, the Zhara Music Awards 2025 took place at the Live Arena near Moscow, marking one of the year's most anticipated musical events. The ceremony featured a star-studded lineup, including prominent figures such as Philipp Kirkorov, Nikolai Baskov, Stas Mikhailov, Olga Buzova, Ani Lorak, and Pogrebnyak with Samoilova. However, the event was met with mixed reviews, with some attendees branding it a "circus with horses" and "the disgrace of the year."
The red carpet was a spectacle of extravagant outfits, with many attendees showcasing questionable fashion choices. Anna Sedokova, for instance, donned a strikingly extravagant look that could be likened to "Spider-Man in retirement against cheap curtains." Observers noted her discomfort as she nervously adjusted her outfit, which seemed to draw attention for all the wrong reasons.
Olga Buzova, known for her flair for the dramatic, once again turned heads with her performance, which was more about her public persona than her vocal abilities. She engaged the audience with theatrical air kisses and a confident demeanor, ensuring that all eyes were on her, regardless of the actual performance. Many in the audience wondered if she was rehearsing for a role in a remake of "Mean Girls".
Meanwhile, Alsu and Oksana Samoilova engaged in a fashion battle that felt more suited for a backyard than a red carpet event. Alsu’s dress drew comparisons to a candy wrapper, while Samoilova's outfit appeared to be the result of a hasty online purchase. The evening also featured Anna Khilkevich arriving with a baby stroller, a move that sparked questions about whether it was a publicity stunt or a genuine display of motherhood.
Among the notable performances was Stas Mikhailov, who showcased his trademark style of youthful exuberance. However, some remarked that his Hollywood smile was almost blinding under the stage lights, leading to chuckles among the audience.
The awards ceremony not only celebrated the music industry but also honored significant contributions to it. Mikhail Gutseriev was recognized for his impact on the music industry, with Stas Mikhailov accepting the award on his behalf. Mikhailov praised Gutseriev as a remarkable person with a big heart, stating, "Let’s applaud the man who has written many wonderful songs. He loves life, people, and friends who genuinely smile at him. I wish him health and creative success."
The event also showcased performances of three songs written by Gutseriev: "Chernaya Pantera" performed by Filipp Kirkorov, "Gor'kiy dozhd'" by Dima Bilan, and "Nevernaya" by Olga Buzova. These performances highlighted the ongoing influence of Gutseriev in the music scene.
One of the evening's highlights was the announcement of the "Video of the Year" award, which went to Ani Lorak for her clip "Tantsy," featuring lyrics by Gutseriev. The award was presented by actor Sergey Burunov, who humorously confessed to feeling out of place at a music awards show, yet was impressed by the performances he witnessed.
Throughout the evening, the atmosphere was lively, with unexpected improvisations and performances that kept the audience engaged. For example, Mikhailov performed his hit "All for You" without musical accompaniment, showcasing his vocal prowess. The hosts, Alexey Vorobyov and Alsu, also entertained the crowd by singing popular songs together, creating a sense of camaraderie among the attendees.
The awards recognized various talents, with Anna Asti being named "Singer of the Year" and Egor Kreed taking home the same title for male artists. Tatyana Kurtukova won the "Breakthrough of the Year" award for her hit "Matushka," which has resonated widely with audiences.
Notably, the award for "Best Show" went to Lyusya Chebotina for her performance "Pervaya Ledi," which was described as a spectacle that left a lasting impression on the audience. Other awards included "Best Rock Performance" for GORODA and "Reunion of the Year" for Serebro.
The evening culminated in a vibrant atmosphere with Egor Kreed and MOT performing their new track "Shorady" on a giant book, symbolizing the ongoing conflict between rap and literature.
Despite the glitz and glamour, some critics questioned the relevance of the awards, suggesting that they often reward persistence and visibility rather than musical innovation. As the night concluded, it became evident that the Zhara Music Awards continue to be a platform for both established and emerging artists, celebrating their contributions to the music industry while also inviting scrutiny over the nature of such accolades.
As the audience left the Live Arena, many were left pondering the true essence of the awards. While the event showcased a vibrant array of performances and honored notable figures in the industry, it also sparked discussions about the evolving landscape of music and the criteria for recognition within it.
