Matvey Blanter

Matvey Blanter, a prominent Russian composer and songwriter, left an unforgettable mark on the music industry. Born on February 28, 1903, in the Russian Empire, Blanter composed numerous popular tunes during his career. One of his most famous compositions is the unforgettable "Katyusha," which he co-wrote with poet Mikhail Isakovsky back in 1938. This iconic song became a symbol of Soviet patriotism and was widely performed during World War II. Blanter's talent wasn't limited to patriotic songs though; he also worked on various other genres including jazz, chanson, and classical music. His compositions were performed by renowned artists such as Luis Mariano, Edith Piaf, and Charles Aznavour. Despite his success, Blanter faced challenges after falling out of favor with Soviet authorities in the late 1940s due to his Jewish origin. Nevertheless, he continued to compose and received accolades for his contributions to music, including the prestigious Stalin Prize. Blanter's legacy continues to be cherished, as his timeless melodies are still beloved by audiences today.