“I am Kazakh and will carry our culture” – Dimash performs anthem at legendary New York arena

Tengrinews.kz – On October 5, Dimash Kudaibergen held a solo concert at Madison Square Garden in New York, becoming the first Kazakh artist to perform a solo show on this iconic stage.

The concert marked the start of the global leg of his Stranger tour, drawing a full house of fans from around the world.

"This is a huge responsibility, but instead of frightening me, it inspires me to move forward. At the same time, we take on the role of cultural ambassadors — we had a unique chance to win people’s hearts on another continent on such a legendary stage," Dimash said in an interview with Tmrw Magazine ahead of the concert.

The program featured both well-known hits and new songs. A highlight of the show was Dimash performing the national anthem of Kazakhstan, shared on social media by his mother, Svetlana Aitbayeva.

Fans shared their excitement in the comments:

"Congratulations! The concert was amazing! Dimash is the best! Thank you to everyone who made it possible to watch this historic concert live. I wish Dimash continued success and sold-out shows worldwide. Love you," one fan wrote.

The Stranger tour combines classical, ethno, and pop music. The title song Stranger was accompanied by the kobyz and cellist Hauser. Dimash also played the dombra for the audience.

"I am Kazakh. Whether I am at home, in neighboring countries, or on other continents, I will always carry and share our culture with the world. I am sincerely proud of our language, our songs, and our achievements in sports, science, and all other fields. Culture is the best way to introduce people to another country. It is naturally kind and positive, free from aggression or harm. Even a song about suffering, in the right hands, does not provoke harm. And songs about the homeland or the eyes of a loved one—especially so," Dimash emphasized.

Among the standout performances was Love’s Not Over Yet, created with two-time Grammy winner Walter Afanasieff.

"It’s amazing. When he sings live, he moves everyone; the audience loves him so much. I rarely see this. I’m glad he invited us — it will be a memory for life. I’ve performed here several times, but I’ve never felt this way. It’s an honor, I’m very happy," the composer said.

The three-hour show saw the audience singing along, chanting Dimash’s name.

"My message has remained unchanged for many years: in our complex world, it is still possible — and necessary — to live in peace, create and listen to music, teach children, learn from parents, and build friendships between homes, cities, and nations. If my art can unite people of different languages and faiths sitting side by side in a concert hall, smiling at each other and singing along, then my work has not been in vain," Dimash shared.

Dimash Kudaibergen is a Kazakh singer with a unique seven-octave vocal range, spanning from bass to the highest coloratura soprano and whistle notes. He gained fame after winning the Slavianski Bazaar competition in 2015 and participating in China’s Singer show in 2017.

Performing on global stages, Dimash sings in multiple languages, blending classical, pop, and folk motifs. He holds the title of People’s Artist of Kazakhstan and was recently awarded the title of People’s Artist of Kyrgyzstan by President Sadyr Japarov.

“I am proud to be Kazakh”: Dimash Kudaibergen about his mission