Igor Nikolayev Biography: Age, Songs, Net Worth, Wife, Height, Albums, Children, Awards

Igor Yuryevich Nikolayev is a Russian composer, singer, and People’s Artist of Russia (2001) renowned for crafting over 1,000 songs, including timeless hits like “Komarovo,” “Delfin i Rusalka,” and “Taksi, Taksi.”

He rose from jazz pianist to pop icon in the 1980s, composing for legends like Alla Pugacheva and Natasha Korolyova, whom he married.

Nikolayev’s melodic ballads and theatrical concerts have earned him multiple Ovation Awards and a lasting legacy as the “Melodist of Russia.”

Profile

• Full Name: Igor Yuryevich Nikolayev
• Stage Name: Igor Nikolayev
• Born: January 17, 1960
• Age: 65 years old
• Birthplace: Kholmsk, Russia
• Nationality: Russian
• Occupation: Composer, Singer, Pianist
• Height: 1.72m
• Parents: Yury Ivanovich Nikolayev and Svetlana Mitrofanovna Nikolayeva
• Siblings: Unknown
• Spouse: Yuliya Proskuryakova (m. 2010), Natasha Korolyova (m. 1992–2001)
• Children: Julia Nikolayeva, Veronika Nikolayeva
• Relationship: Married
• Net Worth: $12 million

Early Life and Education

Igor Yuryevich Nikolayev was born on January 17, 1960, in Kholmsk, Sakhalin Oblast, to Yury Ivanovich Nikolayev, a submarine captain and poet, and Svetlana Mitrofanovna Nikolayeva, an accountant. He might have had siblings but details about them are unknown.

He grew up in a cultured family, starting piano at age five and composing by seven. Nikolayev studied at the Sakhalin Music School, then moved to Moscow to attend the Moscow Conservatory, graduating in 1983 with a degree in composition under Aram Khachaturian.

His early jazz influences shaped his melodic versatility. His ethnicity is Russian, and his religious beliefs are not publicly known.

Career

Igor Nikolayev began as a jazz pianist in the 1970s, performing with ensembles like Recital and composing for films. He gained fame in 1980 with Alla Pugacheva’s hit “Aysberg,” launching his songwriting career.

His solo debut Komarovo (1985) became a summer anthem, followed by Delfin i Rusalka (1987) with Natasha Korolyova, blending pop and chanson. Nikolayev produced Korolyova’s early albums, defining 1990s Russian pop.

His early work established him as a melodic genius.

Nikolayev’s 1990s albums like Prosti i Proshchay (1994) and 15 Let (1995) featured theatrical ballads and duets with Pugacheva and Philip Kirkorov. He composed over 1,000 songs, earning Ovation Awards for Best Composer.

In 2001, he was named People’s Artist of Russia. His 2000s work included Vyshe Golovy (2003) and collaborations with daughter Julia. Nikolayev also hosted Kingdom of Crooked Mirrors on TV.

Nikolayev continues to compose, releasing Liniya Zhizni (2020) and performing at Kremlin concerts. He mentors young artists and supports charity via the Igor Nikolayev Foundation.

His social media shares piano sessions and family duets. Nikolayev’s legacy endures through timeless melodies and emotional depth.

Social Media

• Instagram Handle: @igor_nikolaev_music
• Facebook Handle: Igor Nikolayev
• Twitter Handle: Unknown

Personal Life

Igor Nikolayev married Natasha Korolyova in 1992, divorcing in 2001; they share a daughter Julia. He wed Yuliya Proskuryakova in 2010, and they have a daughter, Veronika (b. 2015).

Nikolayev resides in Moscow, enjoying family time, sailing, and painting. He is close with Julia, who pursues music.

Discography

• Komarovo (1985)
• Delfin i Rusalka (1987)
• Prosti i Proshchay (1994)
• Vyshe Golovy (2003)
• Liniya Zhizni (2020)

Net Worth

Igor Nikolayev has an estimated net worth of $12 million. His wealth primarily comes from songwriting royalties, album sales, and concert tours.

Additional earnings from TV hosting, film scores, and family collaborations contribute to his financial success.