Interview by Dilyara Lindsay(Almaty Kazakhstan)
Introduction
Zhantemir Baimukhamedov, widely known as Jantik, stands as one of Kazakhstan’s most dynamic musical figures, a former diplomat who transformed his early passion for British rock into a full‑fledged artistic career. From childhood influences shaped by his father’s rare 1960s music tapes to recording at the legendary Abbey Road Studios, his journey bridges cultures, eras, and creative worlds. In this interview, he reflects on his path, his artistic identity, and his ambition to place Kazakhstan firmly on the global music map.
In a remarkable story of transformation from diplomacy to artistic expression, renowned Kazakh musician and songwriter Zhantemir Baimukhamedov has opened up about his journey from the corridors of foreign affairs to the international music stage.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with London Post, Baimukhamedov reflected on a life shaped equally by public service and creative passion, describing music as an inseparable part of his identity from childhood.
Born into a family where music was cherished, Baimukhamedov recalls that his earliest inspiration came from his father, a guitarist who introduced Western music to him through rare recordings brought from Moscow during the 1960s.
“My father was my first connection to music. Through him, I discovered Elvis Presley, The Beatles, and the sound that shaped my imagination.”
Those early influences left a lasting impression. He trained in music from a young age, attended music school, and sang in a choir before pursuing academic studies in history and English.
His path then took an unexpected turn into diplomacy. Following the collapse of the Soviet Union, he was selected for advanced diplomatic studies in London and later joined Kazakhstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, serving in key positions including interpreter and diplomatic assistant.
Yet the call of music proved stronger.
In 1996, Baimukhamedov made the bold decision to leave diplomacy and devote himself entirely to the arts, a choice that would define the next chapter of his life.
His professional breakthrough came with Kazakhstan’s national television channel Khabar, where he produced a youth entertainment programme often described as the country’s answer to MTV. Since then, he has performed in more than 3,500 live events, establishing himself as one of the country’s most dynamic musical figures.
A Dream Realised at Abbey Road
For Baimukhamedov, one of the most defining moments of his career came this year with the release of a 14 track vinyl album recorded at the iconic Abbey Road Studios in London with acclaimed producer Stuart Epps.
“Recording at Abbey Road was a dream I had carried since my teenage years. To see it become reality is one of the proudest moments of my life.”
His music bears the deep imprint of British musical heritage. From The Beatles and The Rolling Stones to Led Zeppelin, Oasis, and Stone Roses, Baimukhamedov credits several generations of British artists for shaping his creative language.
Bridging Cultures Through Sound
While his work draws strongly from British influences, Baimukhamedov sees his artistic mission as something larger: giving Kazakhstan a place within the wider global musical conversation.
Using a striking metaphor, he described the evolution of modern music as a vast tree whose roots trace back to legendary British bands.
“The Beatles planted the tree. Many branches have grown from it. I hope to add a Kazakh branch that will continue to grow and prosper.”
His comments reflect a broader cultural ambition to represent Kazakhstan on the world stage through contemporary music.
Championing Young Talent
Beyond his own performances, Baimukhamedov is equally committed to nurturing the next generation of musicians. Through his music school, he mentors emerging artists and provides practical stage experience.
“Talented young people deserve a stage. If I can help create that path for them, then I feel I am doing something meaningful.”
He also expressed his gratitude to the Kazakh Embassy in London and the Eurasian Creative Guild, acknowledging their support in promoting his work and organizing recent cultural engagements.
Looking ahead, Baimukhamedov remains focused on bringing his band to the United Kingdom and fulfilling another long held ambition: performing at the Glastonbury Festival.
For an artist who has already crossed the boundaries between diplomacy and music, the journey appears far from over.
