The Russian Song

I would appreciate, if someone could tell me what is the name of the song. I've found it once on youtube, it was performed by some russian choir, but I don't remember the name and can not find it anymore. I am very courious, because there is one 'semifolklore" song, with the same melody but different lyrics here in Slovakia. Thank you in advance.

reply share

add reply

formatting help

The song requested by the Russians in the cafe scene is an old Russian folk song called "Stenka Razin".

The song's history and a version of the lyrics can be found at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stenka_Razin#Song.

I've heard many Russian songs, they were cheerful, lively, something you could really dance to. Others poetic and meaningful. What the hell were they playing?

I'm not certain, but I suspect that neither tempo used in the film was correct. The original tempo was almost dirge-like but that could have been a reflection of the musicians reluctance to play the tune. When the band then started playing it in a 'Pop' style they were probably just trying to get dancers back on the floor, which again is probably not an accurate tempo.

The song that Ms Binoche dances to in the tavern at the end of the movie is another folk song called "Two Guitars".


That wasn't very sporting, using real bullets.

reply share

add reply

formatting help

I recognised the tune - and wondered if it could be - it's The Carnival Is Over by The Seekers, a 60s folk hit. Wiki confirms it was based on the original Russian folk song (as featured in the movie), with completely different lyrics. It's a lovely song check it out.

reply share

add reply

formatting help