Batyrkhan Kamaluly Shukenov (May 18, 1962 – April 28, 2015) was a Kazakh singer, musician, composer and saxophonist, one of the most recognizable and beloved artists of Kazakhstan. He was the first soloist of the legendary group “A’Studio”, and later successfully performed as a solo artist. His voice, filled with warmth and sincerity, became a symbol of romance and soulful music.

He was born in the city of Kyzylorda. From childhood he showed interest in music, studied playing the saxophone. Later he entered the Almaty State Conservatory, where he continued his musical education. In 1983 he joined the ensemble “Aray”, where he worked with Roza Rymbaeva, and already in 1987 together with Baigali Serkebayev and other musicians he created the group “Alma-Ata”, later renamed to “A’Studio”.

In 1989, “A’Studio” gained all-Union popularity after performing the hit “Julia”, which became the hallmark of the group. Batyrkhan Shukenov was not only a vocalist, but also the author of many songs of the group, combining pop music, jazz and national motifs in his work.

In 2000, he left “A’Studio” and began a solo career. His solo projects were dedicated to Kazakh culture and folk music, he performed songs in Kazakh, including “Otan Ana”, “Sagym Dunie”, “Elim Menin”. He also recorded several albums, including “Otan Ana” and “Batyr LIVE”.

Over the years of his career, he repeatedly received state awards, was an advisor on culture to the President of Kazakhstan and represented the country on the international stage. His sudden death in 2015 was a huge loss for Kazakh music.

Batyrkhan Shukenov left behind a rich musical legacy. An annual competition of young performers “Batyr Music Awards” is held in his honor, and his songs continue to sound in the hearts of millions of listeners.