The music industry of Kyrgyzstan is experiencing rapid development, and with it, the royalties for the use of songs on radio stations, in cafes, restaurants, and other public places are increasing.
According to information from 24.kg from the Ministry of Science, Higher Education and Innovations, payments to domestic authors have significantly increased over the past three years.
In particular, in 2023, over 15.5 million soms were distributed to Kyrgyz authors, in 2024 – 18.5 million, and in 2025 the amount exceeded 21.6 million soms.
All collected funds are fully distributed among the rights holders:
- 40 percent goes to the author of the lyrics;
- 40 percent — to the composer;
- 20 percent — to the performer, depending on the number of performances of the works during the reporting period.
Who earns more? Popular performers
The amount of royalties directly depends on the popularity of the performers: the more often their tracks are played on the radio and in public places, the higher the payments.
In 2023, Ulukmanapo and Begish confidently led the charts and playlists of listeners, whose joint hits, including the popular song "Love Like a Dream," were frequently played on radio stations. Also among the sought-after artists was Bek Borbiev, whose compositions regularly aired.
In 2024, listener preferences changed slightly, but without sharp fluctuations: one of the most popular performers remained Mirbek Atabekov, one of the most recognizable voices in the country. Alongside him, Erlan Andashev made it to the top, whose romantic and dynamic songs resonated with a wide audience.
Rap and hip-hop: a new generation of artists
The youth of Kyrgyzstan increasingly chooses national hits combined with modern hip-hop rhythms. The mix of Kyrgyz and Russian languages, sometimes with the addition of street slang, makes the tracks more relatable and understandable for young people.
In 2025, one of the most popular performers became Freeman 996 — a bright representative of the new wave of Kyrgyz hip-hop and rap.
His songs are actively performed and popular among the youth, which is reflected in the royalties.
Another striking example is Abuzar, an ordinary car wash worker who delights clients with his rap. His videos on social media have garnered the most views, highlighting the youth's interest in his creativity.
Bek Borbiev continues to hold high positions, remaining one of the most stable artists with a loyal audience. Among new names, Zarlyk Kambarliev stands out, whose compositions range from lyrical to rhythmic and are gradually gaining popularity.
The trio "Nomad," which took second place at "Intervision-2025," as well as artists like Mirbek Atabekov, Bakr, Ulukmanapo, and Gulnur Satylganova, are also in high demand on streaming platforms and gala concerts.
Top artists by streams last year:
- The trio "Nomad" (Bek Israilov, Minzhasar Murzaev, Azat Raimberdiev) confidently showcased themselves, taking second place at the international competition "Intervision-2025."
- Urmata Tokombaev became the winner in the "Audience Choice Award" category at the "Intervision" selection.
- Freeman 996 is one of the leaders in streams in Kyrgyzstan with hits "Zhalgyzym" and "Sun Like in Miami."
- Bakr is a popular rap performer with songs "Fifth Nep" and "TYTYN."
- Mirbek Atabekov is a pop singer who consistently tops the charts with tracks "Oshondo" and "Zhalgyzym."
- Aydana Deka actively participates in major state events as a performer.
- V$XV PRiNCE is in high demand, especially with the composition "Sun."
- Honored performers: Gulnur Satylganova, Bek Borbiev, Bakhtiyar Toktorov, Aichurek Imanalieva, Avaz Akimov.
Growth of the music market in response to demand
The ministry emphasizes that the frequency of musical performances and their positions in the rankings depend on listener preferences. The increase in total author payments indicates that the music industry of Kyrgyzstan is becoming more structured, and modern performers are becoming increasingly sought after both by the public and financially.
