June 10, 2025

Sanctions after the Bra Storm?


Sanctions after the Bra Storm?
American rapper Tyga performing. Frank Schwichtenberg, Wikimedia Commons.

Russia's arenas have been devoid of American and Western artists since the country's full-scale invasion of Ukraine was launched in 2022. Despite sanctions and boycotts, U.S. rapper Tyga returned to a Moscow stage as "bras were flying in the air."

In February 2022, after the Kremlin began its assault on Kiev, touring giants such as Live Nation pulled out of Russia, and concerts were cancelled. Russians have travelled abroad to see Western artists' concerts. But this time, they got a taste of American music at home.

On May 31, Tyga, whose legal name is Michael Ray Nguyen-Stevenson, and who is Kylie Jenner's ex-boyfriend, performed at the Russian capital's CSKA Arena. The Bashkir band AY YOLA and rappers Jakone and Macan opened for the California artist. Tyga failed to fill the venue's capacity of 14,000. 

Tyga sung his old hits and newer songs. The publication Lenta said concert attendees spanned "from youth to those who already have grandchildren." Bras flew towards the performer and he "happily twirled [them as] trophies" from the 360 degree stage. Tyga said, "I appreciate Russia, everyone has shown me a lot of love here."

After his private jet landed in Vnukovo Airport, the rapper refused to talk to reporters, claiming he did not have enough strength. However, insiders told the press that Tyga immediately had dinner at the upscale Radisson Hotel. Soon after, he headed to the strip club Secret Room on Rochdelskaya Street. Other club patrons were forbidden from recording the rapper during his visit.

Tyga said he is not afraid of U.S. sanctions after his visit to Russia. The US government has so far not commented on the rapper's visit to Moscow.

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