The project “Vorovayki” (“The Thieves”) was founded in 1999 by the renowned producer Alexander Frumin, who had previously worked with artists in the genre of Russian chanson. The group’s name reflects irony and social color — in Russian slang, “vorovayka” means a woman associated with the criminal world or street life. This image became the foundation of the group’s concept: a “female perspective” on the world of prison, the streets, and ordinary human fate.
At first, the group’s lineup was unstable, but soon a recognizable duet was formed — Elena Bondarenko (Lena Vorovayka) and Tatyana Klimenko. Their voices and personalities defined the band’s unique style — a blend of toughness and femininity, honesty and emotional pain — which became the trademark of “Vorovayki” for many years.
Musical Style and Themes
The band’s repertoire is a kind of “female chronicle” of the streets, where love, betrayal, and freedom intertwine with fate and prison motifs. The songs are often written as monologues of heroines — strong, proud women who have endured the trials of life.
Their music combines classic chanson with elements of pop music and folk intonations, making it accessible to a wide audience. Song themes range from romantic dramas (“You Are My Only One”) to satirical or everyday sketches (“The Redhead”, “Girlfriend”), while some, like “Woman’s Fate” and “The Sinner”, touch on philosophical and social subjects.
Most famous songs:
- “You Are My Only One”
- “The Redhead”
- “Girlfriend”
- “Woman’s Fate”
- “A Rose Fell on Azor’s Paw”
- “The Sinner”
- “Millions of Scarlet Roses” (chanson-style cover version)
Discography and Development
Over more than two decades, the group has released over ten studio albums and several compilation records. Each release reinforced the band’s image as the “female voice” of Russian chanson — sincere, bold, and dramatic.
| Year | Album | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 2001 | Woman’s Fate | Debut album that brought nationwide recognition. |
| 2004 | Thanks for Everything | Consolidated success, with airplay on “Shanson FM” and “Dorozhnoe Radio”. |
| 2006 | Girlfriend | The hits “Girlfriend” and “You Are My Only One” became the group’s signature songs. |
| 2009 | The Sinner | A more mature and dramatic album. |
| 2017 | Millions of Scarlet Roses | A collection of covers and new songs with modern arrangements. |
In addition to official albums, “Vorovayki” released several concert DVDs and thematic compilations such as “Best Songs”, “Our Fate”, “Love and Sin”, and “The Golden Collection of Chanson”.
Image and Stage Style
The image of “Vorovayki” combines theatricality with street realism. On stage, the performers often appear in bright costumes blending folk and rough street aesthetics. Their delivery balances drama and irony, and audiences see them not just as singers, but as real-life heroines — “women with character.”
Critics note that despite the apparent simplicity, the group’s songs reflect deep aspects of Russian popular consciousness — women’s fate, loyalty, loneliness, and resilience.
Festival Performances and Popularity
“Vorovayki” have been regular performers at major chanson festivals, including “Eh, Razgulyai!”, “Chanson of the Year”, and “Soulful Wave”. Their songs have been in constant rotation on Shanson FM, Dorozhnoe Radio, and Radio Humor FM. The group has toured extensively across Russia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, and the Baltic States, drawing full audiences and maintaining strong support from the “people’s” listener base.
Modern Era
Despite lineup changes, the project continues to evolve. Elena Bondarenko remains the main voice and symbol of “Vorovayki.” The group actively performs at themed concerts, festivals, and private events, and maintains official social media pages and a YouTube channel with new videos and live performances.
In the 2020s, “Vorovayki” refreshed their sound by adding contemporary pop-chanson elements while preserving their recognizable tone and emotional honesty. Fans note that the group has remained true to its roots while staying relevant and connected to its audience.
Legacy and Influence
“Vorovayki” are rightfully considered one of the most recognizable female groups in the history of Russian chanson. They became a symbol of the feminine voice within the genre — where behind humor and roughness lie pain, dignity, and inner strength. Their music reflects the spirit of the “people’s courtyard” — honest, simple, and deeply emotional.
Today, “Vorovayki” continue to inspire new generations of artists, and their songs remain timeless hits for fans of chanson and urban lyrical music.
