Viktor Klimenko

In 1970, only five years later, an Europe-wide released record Stenka Rasin containing Russian songs sold Gold on the Finnish market, the first time the accolade for sales was handed out in Finland. Later, it also sold Platinum. This success was followed by a decade of concerts and popular shows all over the world. Viktor sold Gold nine more times.

However, by 1980, he had reached the end of the road. According to him the consuming show-life and popularity had failed to bring him fulfillment; rather, they had driven him to the verge of breakdown. He claims he was torn between beckoning world fame and his personal life, his family. He claims he even considered a suicide. One night, right before Easter, he was ready to end his misery. At the last moment, he remembered how parents taught him to pray; he decided he would not lose anything if he kneels and asks God for help; it was his last "straw". Viktor claimed that God heard his sincere prayer and saved him. He considered this change to have helped him become a truly free Cossack.

Re-branding himself as a Gospel-singer, he was able to extend his career especially amongst the elderly. He made a brief attempt at a comeback under his old brand of "Singing Cossack", without notable success.

Since then Viktor has devoted his talent and love to the spread of Gospel. His voice ranges over four octaves, from deep bass to the high falsetto. He has an amiable manner and is always glad to talk to people before and after the concert.

External website: www.viktorklimenko.com

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