Bulgarian Musician Krasi kurtev passes Away at 53
The Bulgarian music scene mourns the loss of Krasi Kurtev, bassist and vocalist of the influential band “Akaga“. Kurtev’s relatives announced his passing, marking the end of a near three-decade career that considerably shaped Bulgarian music.
“Akaga,” formed by students at the National Academy of Music, is widely recognized as a pioneer of modern Bulgarian sound. Their innovative blend of funk, rock, dance, soul, reggae, and even hip-hop captivated audiences and established them as one of the country’s most beloved musical groups.
Born in Sofia on July 25,1970,Kurtev’s musical journey began at the “Lyubomir Pipkov” National Music School. He later honed his craft at the prestigious “Pancho Vladigerov” Academy of Music. Beyond his contributions too “Akaga,” kurtev was also a co-founder of the Bulgarian Music Association (BMA), further showcasing his dedication to the development of Bulgarian music.
yasen Velchev,a fellow “Akaga” member,expressed his profound grief on Facebook,uttering the loss of his friend and musical collaborator.
Just days before his untimely passing, kurtev shared a heartwarming moment with his son, Neo Kurtev, on the popular television program “The Cherry on the Cake”.
## Remembering Krasi Kurtev: A Legacy of Music and Innovation
**In light of the recent passing of Bulgarian musician Krasi Kurtev, we spoke with fellow “Akaga” member and close friend Yassen velchev to reflect on kurtev’s enduring legacy.**
**Archyde:** Krasi Kurtev’s untimely passing is a important loss for the Bulgarian music scene. Can you share some thoughts on what made him such a unique and influential artist?
**Yassen Velchev:** krasi was a true pioneer. He possessed this incredible ability to blend genres – funk, rock, soul, reggae, even hip-hop – into something entirely new and uniquely Bulgarian. “Akaga” was a testament to his vision. He didn’t just play music; he created an experience.
**Archyde:**
Beyond his contributions to “Akaga”, Kurtev was also a co-founder of the Bulgarian Music Association.How important was this commitment to developing Bulgarian music to him?
**Yassen Velchev:** It was crucial. Krasi believed deeply in supporting and nurturing Bulgarian musical talent. he saw music as a bridge,a way to connect peopel and celebrate our culture. The BMA was his way of giving back and ensuring the future of Bulgarian music.
**Archyde:** Just days before his passing, Kurtev appeared on the television program “The Cherry on the Cake” with his son, Neo. What do you think this moment reveals about his character?
**Yassen Velchev:** It shows his deep love for family. He was a dedicated father, and sharing that moment with Neo was a gorgeous testament to that. It also highlights his warmth and genuine connection with people.
**Archyde:** Krasi kurtev’s music touched the lives of so many. What do you think will be his lasting impact on Bulgarian music?
**Yassen Velchev:** He will be remembered as a visionary, a trailblazer who pushed boundaries and inspired a generation of musicians. his music will continue to resonate,and his spirit of innovation will live on.
**Archyde:** Looking back on your time collaborating with Krasi, what’s the one memory that you cherish most?
**Yassen Velchev:** There are so many. But I’ll always remember the joy we felt performing together.the energy on stage, the connection with the audience…that’s what made it all worthwhile.
**What are your own memories of Krasi Kurtev and his music? Share your thoughts in the comments below.**
## Remembering Krasi Kurtev: A Conversation with Yassen Velchev
**Archyde:** Today, we mourn the loss of Krasi Kurtev, bassist and vocalist of the groundbreaking Bulgarian band Akaga.
Krasi’s passing at the age of 53 marks a significant loss not only for the band but for the bulgarian music scene as a whole. Joining us today is fellow Akaga band member and close friend, Yassen Velchev, to share his memories and insights into Krasi’s life and legacy. yassen, thank you for being here during this tough time.
**Yassen Velchev:** Thank you for having me. It’s truly a challenging time for all of us who knew and loved Krasi.
**Archyde:** Krasi was known for his talent and dedication to music. Can you tell us a bit about his musical journey and how Akaga came to be?
**Yassen Velchev**: Krasi’s musical journey started at a young age. He honed his skills at the “Lyubomir Pipkov” National Music School and later at the prestigious “Pancho Vladigerov” Academy of Music. Akaga formed organically from a group of students at the National Academy of Music. We all shared a passion for pushing boundaries and experimenting with different genres. Krasi’s bass playing was instrumental in shaping our unique sound – a fusion of funk, rock, dance, soul, reggae, even a dash of hip-hop. He was a true musical innovator.
**Archyde:** Akaga’s sound was indeed unique and groundbreaking for its time. What was it like making music with Krasi?
**Yassen Velchev:** Making music with Krasi was always an adventure. He had this amazing energy and passion that was infectious. He wasn’t afraid to experiment and try new things, and he always encouraged us to do the same. He was a true collaborator, always open to ideas and suggestions. Off stage, Krasi was a humble and kind person. He was always willing to lend a helping hand and had a great sense of humor.
**archyde:** Beyond his musical contributions, Krasi was also a co-founder of the Bulgarian Music Association.
**Yassen Velchev**: That’s right. Krasi was deeply passionate about developing Bulgarian music and supporting fellow musicians. The Bulgarian Music Association was his way of giving back to the community and ensuring a thriving future for bulgarian music.
**Archyde:** Krasi’s death is a profound loss for the Bulgarian music scene. What legacy do you think he leaves behind?
**Yassen Velchev**: Krasi leaves behind a legacy of creativity, innovation, and unwavering passion for music. His music will continue to inspire generations of musicians, and his impact on the Bulgarian music scene will be felt for years to come. He will be deeply missed, but his memory will live on through his music.
**Archyde**: Thank you, Yassen, for sharing your memories and insights into Krasi’s life and legacy. Our thoughts are with you and the rest of Krasi’s loved ones during this difficult time.
