Вахтанг Кикабидзе

Early Life

Vakhtang Konstantines dze Kikabidze, affectionately known as Buba, was born on July 19, 1938, in Tbilisi, the capital of Soviet Georgia. He hailed from a noble lineage; his father, Konstantin, was from a noble family in Kartli, while his mother, Manana Bagration-Davitashvili, was a descendant of King Alexander I of Kakheti. Tragically, at the tender age of four, he lost his father during the Battle of the Kerch Peninsula in 1942. Kikabidze pursued his education at Tbilisi State University from 1959 to 1965, also studying at the Institute of Foreign Languages during that time.

Career

Kikabidze's artistic journey began while he was still a student, joining the Tbilisi Philharmonic. In 1967, he became a soloist with the Orera ensemble, the first Vocal-Instrumental Ensemble in the Soviet Union. By the 1980s, he had gained acclaim across the USSR, releasing notable albums such as "Пока сердце поёт" (While the Heart Sings) in 1981 and "Мелодия Любви" (Love Melody) in 1985, which received international recognition. Following the dissolution of the Soviet Union, he continued to perform widely in the Russian-speaking world, although he distanced himself from Russia after the 2008 Russo-Georgian War. His concerts often drew large audiences, and he inspired many younger artists, including Valery Meladze.

Personal Life and Legacy

Kikabidze was married to Irina Kebadze until her passing in 2021, and they had one son, Konstantin, along with two grandsons. He was also active in politics, serving in the Parliament of Georgia from 2020 until his death on January 15, 2023, at the age of 84 due to complications from kidney failure. His funeral was attended by thousands, reflecting his immense popularity and impact on Georgian culture. Throughout his life, Kikabidze received numerous accolades, including the USSR State Prize and the Order of Friendship, solidifying his legacy as a beloved figure in Georgian music and arts.