Kazan, Russia – In a momentous occasion for Kazakhstani music, singer Alex Lim has emerged victorious at the prestigious “New Wave 2025” International Contest of Young Pop Music Performers. The announcement, made on August 25, 2025, saw the talented artist from Kazakhstan capture the top honor, marking a significant achievement in his burgeoning career and shining a bright spotlight on the nation’s growing music scene.
The “New Wave” contest, a renowned platform for discovering emerging talent, concluded its 2025 edition in Kazan with Alex Lim delivering a performance that captivated both the jury and audiences. The news of his triumph was widely shared, including by Lim himself, who posted a video on his Instagram stories featuring jury chairman Igor Krutoy, a celebrated Russian composer and producer, declaring him the winner. “And the winner of New Wave 2025 in Kazan is Alex Lim,” Krutoy announced, sealing Lim’s victory.
This year’s competition, held from August 21 to 26, brought together thirteen promising musicians from six different countries, including Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Georgia, Kazakhstan, and Russia. Over three days, the finalists presented a diverse repertoire of both cover versions and original songs, showcasing a wide spectrum of contemporary pop music talent. The event culminated with the announcement of the top performers, solidifying its reputation as a key fixture in the international music calendar.
Following Alex Lim’s first-place win, the Russian folk group Obereg secured the second position, with Kazakhstani artist Yernazar and Russian performer Jummy sharing the third spot. This international mix of talent underscores the “New Wave” competition’s role in fostering cross-cultural artistic exchange and its commitment to showcasing diverse musical styles.
Alex Lim, a 33-year-old artist hailing from Balkhash, Kazakhstan, has demonstrated remarkable dedication to his craft. Despite not possessing a formal musical education, he has actively participated in numerous vocal competitions and projects, honing his skills and building experience. He pursued his higher education in Tver, Russia, further broadening his horizons. Lim’s win is particularly historic as he becomes the first performer from Kazakhstan to ever claim the “New Wave” title. His journey, marked by consistent effort and a passion for singing, has now propelled him to international recognition.
Founded in 2002 by renowned Russian composer Igor Krutoy and Latvian pianist and composer Raimonds Pauls, the “New Wave” contest has a rich history of launching careers. Previously hosted in Jurmala, Latvia, until 2014, the competition relocated to Russia in 2015, with Kazan serving as the vibrant host city for the 2025 edition. Krutoy, a central figure in the event’s organization and a respected figure in the music industry, plays a crucial role in identifying and nurturing new talent, providing a vital platform for aspiring artists.
The “New Wave 2025” festival featured a packed schedule, including opening and closing ceremonies, creative evenings dedicated to prominent artists, and days for premiere songs, all held at the specially designed New Wave Hall near the Ak Bars Arena. The event not only celebrated new music but also hosted established stars, creating an electrifying atmosphere for attendees.
Alex Lim’s triumph at “New Wave 2025” is a significant milestone, positioning him at the forefront of emerging global music talent. His success is anticipated to serve as a powerful springboard for his future endeavors in the music industry, promising an exciting new chapter for this accomplished Kazakhstani artist.
