The life of the "Khorezm Nightingale": happiness, tragedy, and devotion

Uzbekistan's People’s Artist Otabek Sobirov is not only a vocalist but also an artist who has captured millions of hearts with his life, destiny, and values. This year he turns 53, and his life path offers lessons and inspiration for many.

From Khorezm to the world stage
Born on June 24, 1972, in Urgench, he received his first musical lessons from his brother Maxsud. His passion for the arts led him from music school to the arts college. At age 21, he gave his first solo concert at the Philharmonic, taking a big step into the world of arts.
He has since performed over 30 concerts in the capital, more than 200 in regions, and toured in over 20 countries including the USA, Germany, France, Canada, Turkey, and India.

A belated but well-deserved title
He was awarded “Honored Artist of Uzbekistan” in 2002 and “People’s Artist of Uzbekistan” in 2020. He says the recognition came thanks to the love of the people.

“When they say, ‘it should have been given earlier,’ that is my pride. Because people, deep inside, see the truth. And that is the highest title,” says Otabek Sobirov.

Rumors and sidelining from state events
Rumors circulated that he was not invited to presidential events because he had been gifted a gold horse by the President of Turkmenistan. He denies these rumors:

“It’s just gossip. The real reason is simple. I’m booked for a wedding—people expect me—but I get invited to a state event. If I go to the event—I'll disappoint the people; if I don’t—I’ll offend the government. I understand both sides,” he says.

Money garlands and devotion
Though weddings in Khorezm cost around $3000, his fans honor him with love, not money. In Gurlan district, a wedding guest placed a money garland of twenty one-dollar bills around his neck.

Painful losses: wife and father
The hardest moment in his life was the death of his wife, which still brings him pain when recalled:

“Some said I married my aunt—this is false. My wife was my uncle’s daughter. Her death broke me. It was my greatest loss,” he shares.

The story about his father touches hearts. When he was sick, his father prayed, “Take his pain onto me.” He heard it himself. After that, he recovered gradually, and less than two years later, his father passed away.

“Nothing can stand before parental love. I still wonder: was I a worthy son?” he opens his heart.

A film in memory of his wife
He acted in the film “Kyzgaldoq,” playing the main role. The film is a tribute to his late wife.

“This film reminds our children of who their mother was. I’m proud of that,” he says.

A title matters, but the people matter more
He is now the artistic director of the “Lazgi” ensemble. His life is a testament to overcoming, suffering, love, and loyalty.


Today, he is not just the “Khorezm Nightingale”; he is a genuine people's artist who holds a place in the hearts of all Uzbeks. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!