Kazakh superstar Dimash on his genre-defying music, heritage and the World Nomad Games

Kazakh global sensation Dimash isn’t just a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist - he’s a man on a mission. With his pitch-perfect, virtuosic vocals and genre-defying music, he is determined to bring the rich culture and traditions of Kazakhstan to a global audience.

Returning home after touring the world, he marked the closing of the 5th World Nomad Games in Astana with two electrifying solo concerts.

In an exclusive interview with Euronews Culture, Dimash reflects on his career, evolving musical style, and how the games provide a perfect stage to spotlight Kazakhstan’s heritage.

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Euronews Culture: You were classically trained and offered a position at the Astana Opera, yet you chose to pursue a contemporary music career, blending classical elements with traditional Kazakh and pop music. How did you develop this unique fusion?

Dimash: I remember when the director of the Astana Opera invited me to work with them. But I knew that I wanted to perform in all kinds of music genres. Now, if I want to sing opera, I can do it at my concerts. I have that freedom. I have deep respect for the Astana Opera. Just a few months ago, a dream came true when my teacher, Plácido Domingo, invited me to perform with him in Europe. He told me, "You have only two days to prepare for this aria." I couldn’t say no.

When I was five years old, we had VHS tapes of Plácido Domingo and Pavarotti performing at home. Those concerts inspired me to become a singer. I told Domingo that I became a singer because of him - I wanted to be like him. Vocally, they are the best.

At five years old, your parents realised you were pitch-perfect. When did you know you wanted to become a professional singer?

When I was five, my grandmother took me to music school every day, even though she had trouble with her legs. Now that I’ve gained some fame and started earning money, I know that it's all because of my family - my parents, my grandparents, and my friends. Their support has meant everything. My grandmother deserves my success more than I do.

Why is culture and music so integral to life in Kazakhstan?

In our traditional music, you can learn all about our history. When I was four or five, my grandfather taught me to play the dombra, our national instrument. If you are truly Kazakh, you need to learn the dombra. Now is a great time to introduce our culture to the world. Kazakhstan is a young country, only 33 years old. It's the perfect time to share our heritage with a global audience.

How would you describe your music?

I used to call it neo-classical, but now I incorporate all different genres. I’m still a neo-classical singer, but I love exploring other styles - pop, rock, sometimes even rap. It doesn’t matter to me. I want to try everything.

You're very proud of your Kazakh heritage and often use the country as a backdrop for your music videos. Why is that important to you?

I’m very proud to be Kazakh. My mission is to introduce our country’s culture, songs, and traditional music to the world. I’ve performed for audiences of 20,000 to 30,000 people around the world, in New York, Europe, and Asia, and that’s only possible because of my fans’ support.

You're performing a solo concert at the World Nomad Games, why is this event so important?

Half a year ago, the government invited me to perform at the opening ceremony of the World Nomad Games. I said yes immediately because I know how important these games are for our country and culture. It’s a perfect opportunity to showcase not just our traditions but also our talents in sports and horse games. I’m really excited for my solo concert, though I’m a little nervous. Performing in other countries is easier, but in Kazakhstan, I feel a little more pressure. It’s like taking an exam - my teachers and vocal coaches will be there.

If you could go back in time and give advice to your five-year-old self, what would you say?

Practice more. I’ve been studying for 25 years, and now, at 30, I’m still pursuing a PhD. In sports, if you want to be a champion, you need to practice. In music, it’s the same - if you want to be great, you have to put in the work. It’s simple: practice more.